Havering Council has unveiled the new Low Energy Visitor Centre (LEVC) in Raphael Park, at an opening ceremony with councillors, staff and project contractors.
The centre exhibits a variety of retrofit technologies to help visitors see first-hand how energy-saving measures can transform a typical home and help them save money on heating and hot water use, prevent damp and mould and help lower carbon emissions.
The technology on display is not just limited to homes; it will also be relevant to business premises and offices in the borough as part of the yearlong exhibition.
Developing the LEVC has involved converting the historic Park Lodge within Raphael Park into a green visitor centre, which has been possible due to funding from a UK Shared Prosperity Fund grant and the Mayor of London.
During its time as a visitor centre it will host free public events, training and open days before returning to its everyday use by the Council’s Parks Team, having benefitted from the various energy saving upgrades that will extend the life of the Lodge for years to come.
Earlier this year, the innovative LEVC project was shortlisted for two national awards, The Retrofit Academy Awards ‘Social Value Award’ and ‘The Best Local Authority Retrofit Programme Award’.
Councillor Natasha Summers, Cabinet Lead for Climate Change and Housing Need, said:
“Getting the chance to see home energy saving upgrades up close and ask questions is not always possible, as we often have to rely on websites for advice.
“The visitor centre will make it easier for residents to see first-hand and get information on energy saving products such as heat pumps, vacuum sealed windows, solar panels and urban drainage systems.
“We want the LEVC to educate and inspire residents into making Havering’s homes and businesses fit for the future all while saving them money on energy bills and helping the borough lower emissions.
“Projects like the LEVC also support the Havering Council Climate Action Plan as we aim to become a carbon neutral borough by 2040 or sooner.”
The centre will be open for its first public open day event on Wednesday 18 June 2025 from 11am to 1:30pm.