Some of the York and North Yorkshire mayoral candidates will take part in a climate change-focussed hustings next week.
The event, which is being held by climate action charity Zero Carbon Harrogate, will invite the candidates to put forward their environmental policies and discuss the actions they propose to take.
Felicity Cunliffe-Lister (Liberal Democrat), Keith Tordoff (Independent) and Paul Haslam (Independent) have agreed to speak at the event, and later take questions from the audience.
Zero Carbon Harrogate told the Stray Ferret Green Party candidate Kevin Foster was unable to attend due to a “personal commitment”, but Arnold Warneken , the Green councillor for Ouseburn, would represent him.
Tory candidate Keane Duncan and Labour candidate David Skaith both have “other campaigning commitments”, the charity said, but added they have been invited to send a representative in their place.
Zero Carbon Harrogate today said in a press release:
“The hope is that the hustings will provide mayoral candidates with a constructive opportunity to engage with local residents and business people around the climate agenda.
“This is a new departure in electoral terms, placing new powers in the hands of single successful candidate. It’s a great opportunity to hear the views of those who wish to serve the public good in this way.”
The organisation, which is part of the North Yorkshire Climate Coalition, hopes to work with elected representatives and campaign for effective climate change policies.
It works towards transitioning to a net zero economy, cleaner travel and warmer homes.
The hustings will take place on Wednesday, April 17, at 7.30pm.
It will be held at the Wesley Chapel in Harrogate and the charity said anyone is welcome.
People must register to attend and can submit any questions to candidates here.
The mayoral election will take place on Thursday May 2.
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