Spare Time

Artist's impression of the new library

It’s due to open in February 2009, and Havering council says it'll be the capital’s first low carbon library.

Moss and other vegetation will be grown on the roof to help insulate it. This will also help prevent flooding in heavy rain as it retains 50 % of water and allows the rest to evaporate. It'll also attract birds and insects and will change colour with the seasons.

Solar panels will generate 50 % of the electricity used in the building, and trees and shrubs will be planted to shield the building from direct sunlight, keeping it cool in summer without the need for air conditioning.

And the timber frame will be made entirely from wood from sustainable sources. Recycled paper is being used to insulate the walls and double glazing will keep in the heat.

Inside, the lighting will adjust to incoming light, dimming as it gets brighter outside, and there are plans to export electricity created by the solar panels when the library is closed, to the electricity grid.

Councillor Mike Armstrong, Cabinet Member for Housing, Public Protections and Regeneration, praised the new project. He said:

“Elm Park Library will be a great addition to Havering and its sustainable features show the way forward when it comes to the environment.

“The fact that it’s believed to be the first low carbon library in London is something to be proud of, especially as everyone on the project worked to a tight budget to provide Havering residents with a modern, impressive and original, new library.”

And Councillor Andrew Curtin, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities added: “It’s exciting to see a new library being built in Havering. Books and a love of reading and learning are absolutely vital for everyone.”