Achieving net zero is about more than buildings, technology and infrastructure. It's also about people, their everyday lives and ensuring that the benefits of change are shared fairly. Through Powering Up Castle Vale, we set out to explore an ambitious but realistic pathway towards net zero, combining technical and financial evidence with local knowledge, priorities and aspirations.

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Our approach puts the community at the heart of that process. We brought residents, local organisations and delivery partners together to build understanding, explore opportunities and challenges, and shape a shared direction for Castle Vale. We recognise that lasting change takes time, collaboration and investment. By building trust, strengthening local ownership and keeping the benefits of change within the community wherever possible,

we aim to create the foundations for a fairer, more sustainable future.

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Our guiding principles

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Shape change with the whole community: Give residents meaningful opportunities to influence decisions, drawing on their experiences, knowledge and priorities.

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Make communication rooted in place: Communicate in ways that feel relevant, familiar and accessible to the people of Castle Vale.

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Bring different interests together: Create space for open conversations, recognise competing priorities and find shared goals.

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Build on community strengths and create shared ownership: Value local people, knowledge, skills and relationships, and strengthen the community's role in shaping what happens next.

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Make sure benefits are shared and stay local: Work towards a fair transition that reduces inequalities and keeps value within Castle Vale wherever possible.

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Reflect, learn and adapt: Be open about what works, what doesn't and what remains uncertain, sharing lessons to inform future action.​​