Dudley green zone leading the fight against climate change
A Dudley borough neighbourhood is leading the way in the fight against climate change with help from the West Midlands mayor.
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Brockmoor is the first new Net Zero Neighbourhood where homes and public buildings are going green with cash from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
The WMCA is headed by West Midlands mayor Richard Parker, who launched the latest round of investment, worth £3.5m, for six new Net Zero Neighbourhoods during a visit to Brockmoor.
Mr Parker said: “Brockmoor is at the forefront of the climate revolution – together we are creating greener, cleaner spaces that are bringing down carbon emissions at the same time as energy bills.
“This change is only possible because of the drive and dedication of the residents.
“So far we’ve installed solar panels on the pub, primary school and homes – cutting energy bills for residents, businesses and local services.
“But the work doesn’t stop there as we are modernising more homes, improving insulation and creating new green spaces.”
The investment has been welcomed by members of the community who hope going green will mean savings to help them combat the rising cost of energy.
Tracy Deeming, chair of the Friends of Brockmoor Park, said: “Brockmoor residents are very proud of where they live and their heritage.
“As the chair of Friends of Brockmoor Park I have worked alongside Community BEES (Brockmoor Energy and Environment Scheme) to help design improvements to the park such as the path and the benches and to remove the unsightly disused play area.
“Everyone has been involved, the school, the pub and industrial unit businesses.
“We hope that it will make our homes more affordable to heat and make them warmer and more comfortable to live in.”
Net Zero Neighbourhoods work on a community scale by providing renewable energy sources and insulation for homes and businesses plus creating green spaces, encouraging recycling and promoting the use of public transport.
The six new Net Zero Neighbourhoods announced by the mayor during his visit are: Castle Vale in Birmingham, Graiseley in Wolverhampton, Park Lane Estate in Sandwell, Chelmsley Wood in Solihull, Dudley Fields in Walsall and Hillfields in Coventry.
As well as creating Net Zero Neighbourhoods, the mayor has secured funding to decarbonise 10,000 homes across the region, more than 3,000 businesses plus hundreds of public buildings such as councils, schools and colleges.
