The Low Energy Visitor Centre

We are excited to share the transformation of the historic Raphael Park Lodge into a Low Energy Visitor Centre, showcasing the practical changes that can be made to traditional homes to reduce energy consumption.

Havering Council received UKSPF funding from the UK government and the Mayor of London to implement a variety of innovative solutions to retrofit the historic Raphael Park Lodge into a Low Energy Visitor Centre. Our goal was to inspire and educate, providing a blueprint for residents to make similar modifications to their own homes, leading to cost savings and a smaller carbon footprint. The lodge closes on 31st March 2026, as this one-year project reaches its successful conclusion. Don't miss your chance to explore this unique space and discover practical tips for creating a more energy-efficient home.

What is the Low Energy Visitor Centre?

⭐ REMAINING OPEN DAYS FOR VISITORS⭐

Wednesday 25th March 10am – 3pm
Monday 30th March 10am – 3pm – Last chance to visit the Low Energy Visitor Centre

The purpose of the Low Energy Visitor Centre was to demonstrate a variety of retrofitting techniques for residents. Retrofitting refers to the process of making alterations to an existing property with the goal of improving its energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Take a look at the Further Information section below for some resources on identifying measures most suited to your home.

To help with identifying where heat may be escaping from homes, Havering residents can borrow a thermal imaging camera for free from any of the libraries in the borough. By simply using the camera, along with the instructions included, it will help residents to view their properties through a variety of colours that signify cold spots in blue and warmer areas in yellow. The results can then be used to help improve comfort at home and cut energy bills by making improvements such as draught-proofing or professional insulation fixes.

Alternatively, residents can contact the Energy Doctors service to book an assessment of their home which will identify areas where energy is being wasted and provide tailored advice on how to make savings. The team will also make small repairs where possible, including fitting draught excluders and radiator reflectors, along with swapping older light bulbs for energy-efficient bulbs to reduce energy consumption. They will also give advice on tackling issues with mould and condensation.

For more information, or to make a referral for yourself or someone else, please complete the Havering Energy Doctors Referral Form, contact the Energy Doctors on 0203 0111 241 or send an email to energydoctors@ageukeastlondon.org.uk.

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How to find us

Address: The Lodge, Raphael Park, 43 Main Road, Romford, RM2 5EB.

Public Transport: We are a 20 minute walk from Romford Station. There is a bus stop directly outside the entrance which is served by the 174, 347, 498, 686 and N86.

By Car: Parking is available directly across the road from the visitor centre in Lodge Farm Park on Main Road.We hope you enjoy your visit.

Further information

Identifying measures for your home can be a complicated and overwhelming process. To help homeowners in making the right decisions, take a look at these resources:

Energy performance certificates

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To get a new energy certificate for your home, business property or a public building, you need to have it assessed. You can find an accredited assessor for your home, business property or a public building here:

Get a new energy certificate