Green growth plan could create thousands of jobs

A Green Growth Zone (GGZ) is being proposed in North Lincolnshire, with the council claiming it could create "thousands of green engineering jobs".

If successful it will include research into steel production and investment in new technologies for sustainable energy, North Lincolnshire Council said.

Leader Rob Waltham said the ambition for the project was to lead the way in green energy, making a more sustainable future for the region.

There is also a potential of investment in British Steel, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Other intended outcomes include improvements to Humberside Airport.

The plans come a month after councillors highlighted a local planning reform survey found 53% did not support planning reforms in favour of more onshore renewable energy through wind and solar in open countryside.

The intention of the GGZ is to enhance the renewable energy sector and fast-track manufacturing, as well as to create more jobs.

Waltham said the zone was “a unique opportunity” to capitalise on the region’s energy and industrial strengths and invest in technologies and sustainability.

He said: “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about creating a better future for communities.

“We have a great deal of support from previous governments to invest in the infrastructure to create the foundations for this growth.

“Now we are in a position to deliver, but we need ongoing government support."

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