‘Open cool hubs as matter of urgency to avoid public health nightmare’, Lib Dems say

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Amidst yet another early Summer heatwave, the Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to immediately open air-conditioned public buildings as 'cool hubs' for vulnerable people during summer heatwaves, as millions struggle with unbearable temperatures.

The party says that gyms, leisure centres and libraries could offer vital relief from soaring summer heat mirroring 'cool bank' schemes already running in other countries. Heatwaves are a serious public health threat that the UK has so far been woefully equipped to deal with. 

People with health conditions, those in care homes, and people in temporary accommodation face the greatest risks from extreme heat, with an estimated 1,504 deaths linked to five separate heat events in Summer 2025.

This week, the Met Office issued a red warning for heat across much of the Midlands and southern England, with temperatures potentially exceeding 40 degrees.

The Liberal Democrats are also pressing the Government to urgently prepare the country for more extreme weather by investing in cooling for hospitals, care homes and schools. Too many of our most critical public buildings lack adequate cooling, putting patients, elderly residents and children at serious risk during heatwaves. The poor state of UK schools is particularly alarming as young people finishing GCSEs and A-Levels will be battling a heatwave as well as high-stress exams.

Liberal Democrat Climate Spokesperson Pippa Heylings MP said:

"Cool hubs could be a lifeline for the most vulnerable people in our communities who are struggling in the sweltering heat.

"Public spaces exist to serve their communities and it's right they should offer refuge during heatwaves. Our hospitals, care homes and schools are dangerously hot, these buildings must be fit for a climate that is getting hotter every year. It is completely unfair to expect young people to cope with extreme heat as well as increased stress during crucial GCSE and A-Level exam periods.

"For too many people across this country, temperatures in poorly insulated homes are simply unbearable. The Government must get on with upgrading homes now to keep families cool and safe. We are once again proving just how woefully unprepared we are for the impacts of climate change.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Source for heat-related death statistics here

Met Office projection here.