Should more public buildings in the UK be fitted with air conditioning?

Recent heatwaves have renewed debate over whether more UK public buildings should be fitted with air conditioning. Schools, hospitals and care homes have struggled with extreme temperatures, leading to closures, disrupted services and concerns about vulnerable people.

Supporters argue that installing air conditioning would improve safety, protect public health and help essential services operate during increasingly frequent heatwaves.

Critics warn that widespread air conditioning would be expensive, increase energy demand and carbon emissions, and say better building design, insulation and ventilation should be prioritised.

The debate has raised questions about whether more public buildings in the UK should be fitted with air conditioning.