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The project is the largest ever undertaken by the council and is designed to promote One Planet Living, a lifestyle where people enjoy a high quality of life but use their fair share of the earth's resources.

The project is being developed in partnership with sustainability expert BioRegional, based at the BedZED eco-village in Hackbridge.

Cllr Sean Brennan, Leader of Sutton Council, said:
"The way we live in the UK and the drain this has on the earth's resources simply cannot continue. Councils must start taking the lead if we are to transform our communities and save the planet from climate change.

"The Hackbridge project is the biggest, most ambitious and most challenging that we have ever undertaken. Schemes like this are absolutely essential if we want to safeguard our local areas for current and future generations, and working with local people will be at the heart of the project.

"The Hackbridge project will be a joined-up package of new, sustainable homes, revamping existing homes to be more energy efficient, and an overhaul of local transport, employment and leisure.

"We believe Hackbridge can set the standard for modern, eco-conscious living that protects the environment and enables residents to live healthy, prosperous and sustainable lifestyles."

Rachel Fleming, One Planet Sutton Manager at BioRegional, said:
"Our experience has shown us that living sustainably actually means a better quality of life. We have had a great experience working with local residents over the last year, finding out what people want and offering advice.

"I strongly encourage Hackbridge residents to come along to the public consultation and discuss the draft plans with the council officers and the BioRegional team and be part of making Hackbridge the country's first One Planet Borough."

Sutton Council has drawn up planning blueprint for Hackbridge which identifies four major industrial sites for redevelopment. This master plan is now out for public consultation until 25 March, alongside a Sustainability Action Plan for the area, and local people are invited to comment.

A master plan for the area published this week sets out proposals for:

• Over 1,000 new, energy efficient homes
• Fitting existing homes with energy saving technology
• Buildings powered by locally produced, renewable energy
• New employers attracted to provide more local jobs
• Roads, pavements, bridges and more improved to encourage walking, cycling and public transport
• New parks and open spaces
• More shops and entertainment.