Barnsley Council has signaled its intention to rescind its climate emergency declaration originally made in 2019, along with associated net-zero targets including Zero40 and Zero45. The council stated that this decision stems from a comprehensive review of climate and net-zero activities, with the goal of redirecting resources toward frontline services and initiatives that offer clear benefits to residents.
Council leadership emphasized that the revised approach will prioritize practical initiatives over what it characterizes as ideological targets. The council indicated it would continue supporting projects that help households reduce energy costs, improve home and building energy efficiency, decrease long-term operational expenses, benefit local businesses, secure external funding, or fulfill statutory obligations.
A 2024 report had previously indicated that the council was not progressing adequately toward its carbon emissions reduction goals. An initial assessment of the council’s climate and net-zero commitments is scheduled for completion by the end of September. The UK government, through the Climate Change Act, remains legally obligated to achieve national net-zero emissions by 2050.
This action aligns with similar decisions made by other Reform UK-controlled local authorities. Earlier this year, Wakefield Council voted to withdraw its own climate and biodiversity emergency declaration from May 2019. Additional Reform-led councils including Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, Sunderland Council, South Tyneside Council, and Walsall Council have similarly backed motions to rescind their emergency pledges.
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