UK heatwave: Government urged to open ‘cool hubs’ to protect vulnerable during extreme heat

• The Liberal Democrats have called for the government to immediately open air-conditioned public buildings as “cool hubs” during the extreme heat.
• The party said buildings such as gyms, leisure centres and libraries could offer relief for those vulnerable amid the heatwave.
• They also urged ministers to invest in cooling systems for hospitals, care homes, and schools to prepare for future extreme temperatures, echoing advice from the Climate Change Committee.
• Liberal Democrat climate spokeswoman Pippa Heylings MP said: “Public spaces exist to serve their communities and it’s right they should offer refuge during heatwaves.”
• She added: “Our hospitals, care homes and schools are dangerously hot, these buildings must be fit for a climate that is getting hotter every year.”

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UK heatwave live: Britons told to keep out the sun for four-hour period during red weather warning for extreme heat