LIBERAL Democrats have called for a green recovery in Wiltshire.

The party outlined plans in their manifesto, Leading Wiltshire’s Recovery, which calls for a new Wiltshire Climate Strategy to achieve the county’s target of a zero carbon Wiltshire by 2030.

This plan will evolve through consultation with local residents, organisations and environmental groups to make sure it works for everyone.

Additionally, the party plans to attract businesses to Wiltshire through supporting an enterprise culture, and running programmes to help local people become entrepreneurs.

The recovery plan is aimed at supporting all communities and ensure they benefit from a skilled workforce, attractive locations, improved transport links and excellent network connectivity.

Cllr Brian Mathew, the LibDem Wiltshire Climate Change spokesman, said: “Urgency and acting fast is central to our plan for Wiltshire."

"If elected in May we will kickstart the green recovery that we so desperately need.

“Campaigners joined by myself and LibDem colleagues across Wiltshire have campaigned and held the Tory-led Wiltshire Council to account since the declaration of the climate emergency two years ago.

“Now is the opportunity to achieve real change in Wiltshire. Our time to tackle the climate crisis is running out and urgent action is needed.

“We are the first generation to know that we are destroying the environment and the last generation with a chance to do something about it. Our green recovery will achieve this in Wiltshire.”

Cllr Gavin Grant, LibDem Shadow spokesman for Finance and Local Economic Development, said: “We have a duty to ensure the recovery from the pandemic is one that protects the future of our planet. The current Tory-led Wiltshire Council is failing to do this and it's time for change.

“In Wiltshire alone, youth unemployment is the highest it’s ever been, Universal Credit claimants have ballooned, and 1,000 new children qualify for free school meals. It is clear that something must be done.

“Securing a green and prosperous economic recovery is vital for the residents of Wiltshire and is at the centre of our plan."