Draft Local Plan sets out how Birmingham will become a net zero city

Birmingham City Council has set out how it intends to make Birmingham a net zero carbon city, in its draft Local Plan for the next two decades.

The council declared a climate emergency in 2019, with a target for both the council and the city to reach net zero by 2030 or as soon as possible afterwards. The new plan describes becoming a net zero carbon city as one of its most important objectives for the next 20 years.

What the plan says

• Reuse old buildings. The council says historic buildings have an important role, because reusing them avoids the emissions from demolition and rebuilding.
• Walking, wheeling and cycling first. New development must make them the default for short trips, to cut car dependency.
• Cleaner rail. The council supports electrifying more of the city's rail lines.
• Community energy. Community-led energy schemes will play an important part.

"The Birmingham Local Plan sets a clear and strong vision and strategy for sustainable inclusive growth, aiming for a climate resilient future," the council said.

The council, now run by a coalition including the Liberal Democrats and Greens, says it wants Birmingham to be a place where development is "designed to limit carbon emissions". Net zero policies remain politically contested, with critics arguing some plans are too costly.