Good Local Economics

In Redditch, the decision to use waste heat from the crematorium to heat the adjacent swimming pool has sparked something of a controversy. Some described it as taking Big Society a step too far. Few seemed to savour the thought of relaxing in a jacuzzi unwittingly warmed by local citizens making a final contribution to society. I have to say I find it a very sensible idea. But you’ll tell me I’m in a minority.

There’s a lot in the press these days about quality of life in England – post mortems around the summer riots, debates about the planning laws and ‘sustainable development’, the impact of financial disasters elsewhere.