The chief executive of local authority climate network UK100 has praised the Energy Secretary and her announcement of the new government programme after her first conference speech.
Miatta Fahnbulleh announced the devolvement of the Warm Homes Plan to create the Great Home Upgrade, which means that local governments, Mayors and communities will have more power over related investments.
Christopher Hammond, CEO of UK100, said: “This is exactly what we hoped to hear from the Secretary of State. It’s the promise local leaders have been asking for. Across our network, schemes to upgrade residents’ homes are closing to new applicants because demand has outstripped the money available.”
Mr Hammond added that the announcement is evidence of local leaders being able to “deliver at pace when empowered to do so”.
He also warned that the Ocotber budget must be able to protect the scheme in order for it to be a success.
He said: “Alongside devolving the warm homes plan, the funding must be protected at the Budget, reach every postcode, and come with investment in the people to deliver it. Every pound of capital needs to be backed up by the staff and skills to ensure it reaches the people who need it most, quickly.”
Ms Fahnbulleh says the scheme is set up upgrade homes, renew estates, train young people for skilled jobs and boost local businesses.
