The West Midlands Combined Authority has approved a budget of £1.2bn to help the region reach Net Zero by 2041.
The funding will support a wide range of projects including skills provision, transport decarbonisation, and building more sustainable affordable homes.
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and Chair of the WMCA said: “We’re making hundreds of millions of pounds available to ensure residents can gain the skills they need to succeed and secure the high-quality well-paid jobs of the future, find affordable homes to buy or rent, and benefit from a reliable and sustainable transport network.
“We’re doing all of this whilst - for the eighth year running - imposing zero mayoral precept to avoid any additional tax on local people which I’m sure will be welcomed given cost of living pressures.”
Cllr Bob Sleigh, Deputy Mayor and WMCA portfolio holder for finance, said: “I’m pleased we have yet again been able to protect services and put forward a balanced budget despite the uncertain global situation and cost-of-living pressures.
“We have agreed a Budget that supports our Plan for Growth which looks to build a low carbon and resilient regional economy. It also focuses on the things that are important to people like having the skills needed to get a decent job, an efficient transport network, homes that are affordable and energy efficient and other measures aimed at tackling fuel poverty and climate change.”
The region’s Deeper Devolution Deal agreed with Government last year will see more powers and finances transferred from Whitehall to the West Midlands including a single pot of funding leaving local leaders to decide for themselves on how best to allocate the money to help level up the region.
ECA works closely with its Members, industry partners and Government to help Britain transition to Net Zero Carbon. We produce regular guidance notes, technical bulletins, and industry updates to keep Members at the forefront of the Net Zero transition. Learn more here.
Last updated 13 February 24