Council defends green spend

JHE leader of Northumberland jounty Council has defended the local authority’s spending to tackle climate change after questions from the Reform opposition.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local Democracy Reporter

Coun Glen Sanderson insisted that green energy was “the future” and said carbon emissions had to be reduced for the sake of the county's children.

His comments came after Reform leader Mark Peart questioned the amount of cash the council had put into green initiatives.

Coun Peart, who represents Blyth’s Croft ward, branded the council's target of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 as “unrealistic”.

‘The county council declared a climate emergency in 2019, setting the carbon neutral goal at the same time. Nationally, Reform has said it will scrap net zero plans and cut all renewable energy subsidies.

Speaking at Wednesday's meeting of the county council, Coun Peart said: “How much has been spent to date on the net zero, climate change agenda including staffing, communications, external contractors and consultancy fees?

“A figure of £1.6 billion has previously been mentioned for Northumberland to become carbon neutral by 2030. What is the estimated figure now to include the new data centre, which will be a large carbon dioxide producer?