Action to tackle the climate crisis during times of austerity and enforced budget constrains is welcomed by a leading Labour politician.

Cllr Jill Axford, who represents Davyhulme East ward, said Trafford Council has shown real commitment to addressing the issue while remaining on target to meet carbon neutrality by 2038.

Speaking to the council’s budget proposals on Wednesday, Cllr Axford said: “The green agenda plans within the budget will improve Trafford residents’ health, well being and quality of life, and protect our most vulnerable.

“It is exciting to see the plan to expand our dedicated officer team, with an additional two officer roles, so we can continue to be innovative and bold, moving forward in collaboration with other GMCA initiatives, and better able to take up the bidding opportunities we are so sadly forced to make, instead of receiving the government funding we so desperately need.

“In addition, developing a carbon budget, alongside our financial budget, as well as a zero carbon energy plan, demonstrates our commitment to be fully accountable.”

Cllr Axford said that to meet the required targets, to improve air quality and public health, it is vitally important to reduce our car dependency.

“Andy Burnham’s recent £2 cap on bus fares has already increased their usage by an impressive 10pc in Greater Manchester in addition to the very welcome Active Travel Network, which is about to start its first phase,” added Cllr Axford.

“I very much welcome investment in EV charging points, while Trafford Council continues to explore making our roads and pavements safer and more pleasant to walk and cycle along meaning that eventually everyone will have a real choice about how they move around especially when the Trafford Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Strategy is soon to be published.”

Cllr Axford also pointed out that the authority is making a good start at decarbonising its public buildings in addition to launching the Green Skills Academy, which will offer residents the opportunity to gain the skills needed to secure the many new jobs in the green sector.

“As councillors, I feel we all bear responsibility to ensure that we mitigate the effects of climate change and help reach Greater Manchester’s 2038 zero carbon challenge.

“I feel confident that this budget allows us the opportunity to do the very best we can to achieve this.”