St Albans City & District has been awarded a grant of £300,000 in order to improve the environment.

The local authority was given the grant by the Government's 'Innovate UK' agency.

It will be used to  fund the council's 'St Albans Greener Together' initiative, which has been supported by the University of Hertfordshire.

Communication, education and behaviour change campaigns will be implemented, with the aim of empowering "local residents and businesses to come together to create a more sustainable future".

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A community fund will also support local initiatives aimed at improving energy efficiency and sustainable travel.

'The Green House', an eco-hub that could provide a learning space and community activities, is also planned.

The council's strategic director for strategy, policy and transformation, said: "We are delighted to have been one of just 21 local authorities to receive this funding.

“It recognises what a powerful force for change local people can be when they are supported by projects like St Albans Greener Together.

"As a council, we are committed to cutting emissions from energy and transport to net zero across the district by 2030 and this project will play a vital role in achieving that ambition.

“We want to win the support of people who have previously shown little interest in environmental topics by exploring the issues that matter to them most such as saving money, improving health, reducing traffic congestion.

“We will use the existing networks of individuals who are already doing great work and wish to do more. This includes our volunteer climate champions who are trained to provide advice and workshops to stimulate discussion around climate change.

“Our vision for St Albans Greener Together is to get everyone involved in climate issues as well as provide support for local net zero projects that are likely to have impact.”

The University of Hertfordshire's Shaun Borstrock added: "We are very excited to be part of this important project and look forward to working with the community to make a difference."

The project is due to begin in 2024.