LGA responds to 10-point plan for a “green industrial revolution”

“Our recent research found that nearly 700,000 jobs would be needed in England’s low-carbon and renewable energy economy by 2030, rising to more than one million by 2050. An integrated and devolved approach to the development of skills is urgently needed and our Work Local proposals set out the steps for handing funding and powers over skills to local areas.”


Responding to Government’s 10-point plan for a “green industrial revolution”, Cllr David Renard, the Local Government Association's environment and transport spokesman, said:

“We are pleased with the investments and support for developing the low carbon economy announced today. Net-zero can only be achieved with decarbonisation happening in every place across the country – that’s every household, community and local economy. Councils share the ambition for a green revolution and want to work with government and businesses to establish a national fiscal and policy framework for addressing the climate emergency, supported with long term funding.

“Electric vehicles play an important part in improving air quality and reducing dependency on fossil fuels, as well as improving the health of our residents and the environment in our local communities. The plan to bring forward the ban on selling new petrol and diesel cars to 2030 is also a positive step, but the Government needs to be clear what role councils have in delivering new infrastructure.

“Our recent research found that nearly 700,000 jobs would be needed in England’s low-carbon and renewable energy economy by 2030, rising to more than one million by 2050. An integrated and devolved approach to the development of skills is urgently needed and our Work Local proposals set out the steps for handing funding and powers over skills to local areas.”

Notes to editors

At least 230 local authorities have declared a climate emergency and nearly two thirds of councils in England aim to be carbon neutral 20 years before the national target.

Work Local is the LGA's positive vision for an integrated and devolved employment and skills service – bringing together information, advice and guidance alongside the delivery of employment, skills, apprenticeships and wider support for individuals and employers.