CHESHIRE has been selected as one of two sites in the country to take part in ‘groundbreaking research into unlocking greener energy’ as part of a £6 billion Government initiative.

The county will lead the way in green technology as ministers ramp up efforts to combat climate change.

The British Geological Survey has picked the area, along with another site in Glasgow, for a UK Geoenergy Observatory at Ince Marshes.

Sensors in the ground at the site will enable scientists to gain clear pictures of the underground environment.

These will then produce data on the chemical, physical and biological properties of the rocks over a 15-year period, providing information on how to unlock new clean, green, low-carbon energy possibilities.

Tory parliamentary candidate for Warrington South Andy Carter hailed the announcement.

He said: “I’m really pleased that our region has been picked as one of only two sites to take part in this groundbreaking research into unlocking greener energy.

“The Conservative Government is committed to tackling climate change, Warrington has some of the worst air quality hot spots in the UK, we need to take action but we also need to think about how we do this in an affordable and sustainable manner.”

Mr Carter says the Cheshire observatory will be a ‘vital key’ in the Government’s 25-year environment plan.

It has pledged to lead the global fight against climate change, aiming to deliver cleaner air and water in cities, towns and rural communities across the country.

“The Conservatives are working hard to ensure we leave our planet fit for future, so I am proud that our region will be playing a vital part in using the latest research to ensure this happens,” added Mr Carter.