The Neighbourhoods, Environment and Climate Change Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 6 October 2026 to discuss progress on Manchester's Climate Change Action Plan, energy programmes, and the Manchester Climate Ready initiative. Key decisions included requesting an acceleration of discussions with Great British Energy and the development of an exhibition on Manchester's journey to zero carbon.

MCC Climate Change Action Plan Annual Report

The committee reviewed the first annual report on the Manchester Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) 2025-30, which outlines progress on 63 actions aimed at making Manchester a zero-carbon organisation by 2038. While the Council's direct carbon emissions reduced by 14.6% in 2025/26 compared to the previous year, reaching 18,794 tonnes of CO2, this still represents 24% of the five-year carbon budget. Discussions highlighted key achievements such as planting 2,818 new trees, saving 470 tonnes of carbon through an HVO fuel trial, and supporting over 9,000 residents in climate action activities. Challenges identified include securing sufficient funding, reliance on national government policy, and the need to accelerate citywide emissions reductions. The committee noted that a response would be provided regarding whether local authority-maintained schools can control their heating systems, a ward-level breakdown of resident participation in climate activities, and further information on low-carbon affordable homes and environmental elements of advertising contracts.

Infrastructure and Environment Delivery Progress - Energy Programme

The committee received an update on the Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) Programme, which concluded in March 2026, and ongoing work on renewable energy generation, heat networks, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The NZA programme has strengthened the Council's understanding of where low-carbon infrastructure investment can have the greatest impact, developing a pipeline of potential projects. Key findings include a potential for 78.5 megawatts of solar photovoltaic capacity, particularly in schools, and the development of a blueprint for net-zero regeneration based on a pilot in Wythenshawe. The committee requested that the Executive increase the pace of discussions with Great British Energy to accelerate emissions reduction and ensure an equitable transition to a net-zero city.

Manchester Climate Ready

The committee considered the progress of the Manchester Climate Ready (MCR) Plan 2025-30, approximately one year after its launch. While Manchester has demonstrated broad collaborative action on climate change, the pace and scale of action by all stakeholders need to accelerate to achieve the city's zero-carbon and climate-resilient goals. Discussions covered the city's carbon budget, which has now been exceeded, and the need for faster action. The committee requested the development of an exhibition on Manchester's journey to zero carbon to educate visitors, children, and young people. They also requested consideration be given to funding a full-time Schools and Climate Change Officer and noted that a future report on resident engagement would include information on travel choices.

Overview Report

The committee reviewed the Overview Report, which included a monitor of previous recommendations, a summary of key decisions, and the committee's work programme. A member requested that the upcoming report on the Air Quality Vision and Action Plan include information on air quality during summer heatwaves and wildfires. The committee noted the report and agreed to the work programme, with the addition of this specific request.