Cllr David Renard, environment spokesperson for the Local Government Association said:

“Councils have long been calling for further investment into retrofitting homes and public buildings. Not only do poorly insulated buildings waste money for households and the public purse, but they also dampen local and national efforts to reach climate change targets.

“All households, especially those that are fuel poor need support to decrease their energy bills, and retrofitting leaky homes will do this as well as help protect more vulnerable people from suffering cold and damp conditions that can lead to ill health.

“Councils are best placed to deliver programmes to help decarbonise England’s buildings. They have the local knowledge, experience, trusted status, relationships with residents and the ability to forge local partnerships. We are keen to help the Government deliver on this win-win policy and insulate more homes.”