A group of councillors are coming together next week to discuss how local towns and parishes can collaborate on projects to tackle the climate and biodiversity emergencies.

In what is described as “a first for the Forest”, the Forest Climate Group (FCG) is hosting an all-day event dubbed ‘Local Leaders for Climate Action’ next Saturday (March 5), with the aim of encouraging local councils and residents to work together to address the crises.

The event, which is being held at Lydney Town Hall, will give councillors and locals the chance to discuss the district’s existing climate projects and exchange ideas on how they can be expanded and built upon.

The FCG, which is made up of climate-concerned councillors and local residents, works to share and network ideas and projects aimed at addressing the climate and biodiversity emergencies in the local community.

The group will host a Peoples’ Assembly on the morning of the event, which it says will allow attendees “to experience real, active democracy and empowerment for local people.”

Then, in the afternoon, there will be an exchange of ideas on concepts and projects “which are already doable” by towns and parishes in the Forest.

In a letter to town and parish councils, local councillors and FCG members Jackie Dale, Alison Bruce and Andy Moore said: “We think collaboration and sharing ideas is essential for town and parish councils, not only to make progress at the grass roots level but also in our effort to support the district to meet its carbon reduction target.”

The day will also feature several guest speakers, including local activists and the Climate Officer for Forest of Dean District Council.

FCG Convenor and West Dean Parish Councillor Jackie Dale said: “This event is designed as a starter for something uniquely different. This is not about lamenting the dire straits of the climate crisis.

“Emphatically not another talking shop, this is an opportunity for our councils and parishioners to come together to explore doable ideas, network, share projects, learn from each other, and offer mutual support.

“Help us make this event a special achievement, filling Lydney Town Hall with councillors from every town and parish in the district.”

To find out more or to book a place at the event, contact Jackie via email at [email protected] or by phone on 01594 564151 or 07766140602.