A NEW cross-party advisory panel has been set up to consider ways to make Wyre Forest greener - one idea being to build a solar farm.

District councillors voted in favour of creating the panel at a meeting on Wednesday (May 20).

The new group, which will be chaired by the council's only Green Party member, Councillor Vicky Caulfield, will work closely with cabinet members on steps to reduce carbon emissions.

It will also offer support to local businesses, organisations and residents on ways they too can reduce their carbon footprint.

A key part of the panel's agenda is to explore options such as implementing a solar farm, planting trees on council land and moving the council's vehicle fleet and equipment away from fossil fuels to electric or other power sources.

Cllr Caulfield said: “I’m really excited we’ve formed a panel solely focussed on our green agenda.

“We are taking the issue of climate change very seriously, in May 2019 we declared a climate emergency and this is another step in the right direction to tackle the issue head on.

“I look forward to working together with members from all parties to create a safe, clean and green living environment for future generations to enjoy.”