THE EU has chosen Greater Manchester as a pilot region for a new green scheme.

The region will receive support of up to £450,000 from the European Commission to help Greater Manchester develop into a green city region, support the digital economy and improve skills.

The region will receive support of up to €200,000 in April and a further grant of €300,000 next year if progress is being made.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “Greater Manchester has an unparalleled history as an industrial pioneer and I want us to lead the way again in building a 21st century economy.

“My vision for Greater Manchester is as the UK leading digital city and green city. This funding will help us to achieve that and implement the new thinking coming out of the forthcoming Green Summit.

“Through this pilot, we will be able to collaborate with other regions across Europe who, like Greater Manchester, are moving from an industrial past into a new dawn. As we prepare to leave the EU, it is essential that we maintain good links with our largest market. We should be building bridges rather than burning them.”