Residents are getting behind a trailblazing council neighbourhood pilot project to help save on energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and improve health.

City of Wolverhampton Council has been granted £545,502 Department for Energy Security and Net Zero funding through West Midlands Combined Authority’s Net Zero Neighbourhood Fund for Graiseley Low Carbon Energy Accelerator Pilot (LEAP).

The first phase is focused on data gathering within a small cluster of streets in Graiseley and some eligible properties will be offered energy advice, retrofit assessments and supported with low-cost energy saving improvements.  

It will involve working with residents and businesses to investigate how measures such as home energy improvements, smart energy systems, active travel and better green spaces can improve lives.

A community event was held to launch the project at the Church of St Chad and St Mark in Lime Street with a good turnout of residents, project partners and councillors.

Reverend Ray Gaston, from the Church of St Chad and St Mark, said: "As someone who has lived and served this community for more than 10 years, I am excited to see our streets becoming part of the solution to climate change.

“The project will show how net zero can benefit ordinary people and bring us together as a more caring, connected and hopeful community."

Leanne McDonald, local resident and organiser of the charity, Simple Acts of Kindness, said: "I wanted to be part of it as I am keen to improve my house and to encourage other residents to help improve their homes and our neighbourhood.

“The benefits possible could make a big impact on people's lives.”

Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for City Transport, oversees Wolverhampton’s Green City strategy.

He said: “This project is about making our neighbourhoods healthier, greener, and cleaner with warmer homes and lower energy bills.

“The lessons we learn from this will be beneficial for our whole city and help guide how government invests in communities.

“By showing what’s possible, we can unlock more funding and support for other neighbourhoods.

“We want this project to be for everyone. That means listening to residents – and working together.”

The pilot neighbourhood includes Lime Street, Fisher Street, Bristol Street, Manlove Street, Cardiff Street and Bingley Street, and sections of Lea Road, Owen Road, Burleigh Road, Norfolk Road, and Merridale Street West.

Anyone living in the area who would like to get involved can contact climateaction@wolverhampton.gov.uk

Future community events will take place in the coming months.

Anyone struggling in the cost of living crisis can find advice via Cost of Living Support.