Havering could become the first London council to be powered by solar energy.

Romford Recorder: Photographs of Dagnam Park, Harold Hill, by Twitter user @underlondonmanPhotographs of Dagnam Park, Harold Hill, by Twitter user @underlondonman (Image: Archant)

Plans to develop two solar parks in Gerpins Lane, in Corbets Tey, Upminster, and on the land adjacent to Dagnam Parkin Harold Hill.

The renewable energy could generate up to £1million a year for the council and would be used to reduce its running costs while funding frontline services.

Residents would also be able to invest in a solar financial investment fund, a scheme which could provide long-term return on investment for individual investors.

A proportion of the income generated from the solar farm on the Dagnam Park site, will be transferred to a ring-fenced community fund to maintain and improve the park and the surrounding area.

A public access path at the Gerpins Lane site will also link the surrounding woodland and parks, which are unavailable to the public.

Cabinet member for the environment Cllr Osman Dervish described the scheme as an “immensely exciting opportunity” for the borough.

“With residents’ support Havering could be leading the way for solar power in London, and more importantly it would be providing the council with a significant and regular income to help to maintain and fund future services.

“On top of the financial and community benefits, solar parks would provide a positive impact on local biodiversity for a range of plant and animal species.

“There would be a proposed wildflower meadow, which will increase wildlife at both sites, making the entire proposal a great benefit for the Council, the community and the environment.”

“I would urge all residents to contact us with their views on these proposals as we will not proceed without public support”.

Residents can comment on the proposals by emailing energystrategy@havering.gov.uk or writing to The Energy Strategy Team, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 4BE by October 31.

More information is available here.