Warm homes

Britain's draughty homes account for almost a fifth of the country's greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the gas price crisis is driving up heating costs, trapping over three million poorly insulated households in fuel poverty.

The housing crisis facing Britain requires building hundreds of thousands of new, low-carbon homes while upgrading existing housing stock. Local authorities have an essential role in delivering warm, affordable homes in their communities.

Councils oversee substantial social housing portfolios and are best placed to set ambitious standards for new developments. By kickstarting home energy efficiency upgrades, the transition to clean heating, and boosting the low-carbon construction industry, they can grow economies of scale to build national markets while creating good local jobs.

Investing in warm homes locally pays dividends. For every £1 invested, over £14 in benefits are returned through cheaper bills, better health, and wider social benefits.

As community leaders, local authorities understand residents' needs best. By bringing people together around practical solutions, we can cross-party build consensus and ensure the transition to warm, affordable and low-carbon homes works for all.