South Tyneside Council has rescinded its declaration of a climate emergency following a motion brought forward by Reform UK. The decision came after a council meeting that included a demonstration by environmental campaigners outside South Shields Town Hall.
The motion, proposed by a Reform UK councillor, requested that the council "rescind" the pledge and direct officers to review all policies, targets, and spending commitments made as a result of the declaration. It also called for the reaffirmation of commitments to local environmental services such as clean streets, parks, recycling, and flood protection, stipulating that future environmental initiatives should be affordable, evidence-based, and deliver clear benefits for residents.
During the debate, councillor Rachael Taylor, leader of the Green group, argued that the motion presented a “false choice between climate action and delivering good local services.” She stated that the council already evaluates affordability, value for money, and evidence before allocating public funds, and that there was no evidence to suggest rescinding the declaration would lead to cost savings or service improvements.
Councillor Kate Owens-Palmer of the South Tyneside Alliance Group expressed perplexity at the motion's wording. She noted that while Reform UK sought to rescind the climate emergency declaration, the motion also pledged to undertake actions that would protect nature and the climate.
Environmental campaigners gathered outside the town hall to voice their concerns regarding the motion prior to the council meeting.
South Tyneside Council has been contacted for further comment.