Mid Suffolk leader named co-president of national cross-party climate network

03/03/25

Mid Suffolk District Council leader, Cllr Andy Mellen, has been announced as the new co-president of UK100, the national network committed to tackling the climate crisis at local level.

Members of the UK100 network have all pledged to meet ambitious climate targets ahead of the government’s 2050 goal.

Cllr Mellen will join fellow co-presidents Cllr Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council, Cllr Lucy Nethsingha, leader of Cambridgeshire County Council and Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, in representing the network on the national stage, advocating for the powers and resources local authorities need to deliver on these ambitions.

Cllr Mellen said:

“The climate emergency doesn't respect political boundaries, and neither should our response. UK100's cross-party approach is exactly what we need – bringing together diverse perspectives but united in our commitment to local climate leadership.

"Together, we can show that local authorities, when properly empowered, can lead the way in creating a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for all."

Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, said:

“I'm thrilled to welcome our expanded team of co-presidents and new board members at what is a pivotal moment for local climate action. Having every major political party represented in our leadership team sends a powerful message that climate action transcends traditional political divides.

"Tracey, Andy, Lucy and Richard are outstanding local leaders who bring diverse perspectives but share a commitment to ambitious climate action. Their collective experience – from urban regeneration to rural sustainability – will be invaluable in advocating for the powers and resources local authorities need.”

L-R: Cllr Andy Mellen, Cllr Tracey Dixon, Christopher Hammond, Cllr Lucy Nethsingha, and Cllr Richard Clewer.