Barnsley Council is to carry out a full review of its climate change and net zero work, with council leader Cllr William Brown saying he wants the authority to formally withdraw its Climate Emergency Declaration and the associated Zero40, Zero45 and net zero targets that followed it.
Officers have been asked to examine every climate-related target, programme, budget, contract, partnership, strategy and performance measure the council currently runs, deciding case by case whether each should continue, change or stop — based on whether it genuinely benefits residents, represents value for money, or is required by law. The original Climate Emergency Declaration was approved by Full Council back in September 2019.
Cllr Brown said the authority isn’t stepping away from useful climate-related work altogether. Anything that genuinely lowers household bills, makes homes or council buildings more efficient, cuts long-term running costs, helps local firms, brings in outside funding, or is legally required will keep going, said the council.
The review will also look at whether resources could be redirected towards frontline services.
Action where it makes sense
Cllr William Brown, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “Our priority is to make sure the council is focused on the things that matter most to people in Barnsley. We need to be confident that every area of work is delivering for residents, meeting our legal responsibilities and making the best possible use of public money. That does not mean stepping away from practical action where it makes sense.
“If we can secure funding to help residents cut their energy costs, improve homes, reduce running costs across council buildings or support local businesses, we should continue to do that. This review is about taking a careful, evidence-based look at where we are, what is working, and what needs to change. We will report back once that work has been completed.”
A first report is due by late September, after which any recommendations will pass through the council’s standard decision-making channels.
