Work completed on carbon neutral community centre
Building has finished and residents were able to see inside the new Sapphire Jubilee Community Centre in Collier Row this week.
The new centre is carbon neutral with solar panels contributing to the power for the anticipated electricity demand in the building, a ground source heat pump with a bore hole up to 140 metres into the earth to generate heating for the centre and rainwater capture so the grey water can be used for flushing toilets, watering the landscaping areas etc.
The pre-fabricated building was built by Northamptonshire based Scotts of Thrapston, specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of such buildings.
The finished community centre includes a large hall for events and use by local organisations alongside a kitchen, toilets and an office. The building is fully accessible for people with disabilities and, thanks to a grant from The Breyer Foundation, will have Wi-Fi available throughout the centre.
A play area for children under 10 years old has been created next to the new building. This is being partly funded through the Housing Revenue Account as well as a £10,000 grant from the Tesco Bags of Help fund which allocates the 5p paid when buying disposable carrier bags to local good causes.
Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, said: “The pre-fabricated design of this centre meant we started work in May and the building was completed by the end of August.
“The building is very versatile and residents who toured the building at the Family Fun Day were very impressed with the end result.
“We already have several community groups interested in meeting there and we are looking forward to this eco-friendly community centre being put to good use by local residents and community groups.”