A Government minister says he is very impressed by the borough's work to tackle climate change and create a green environment.

Don Foster, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, visited Sutton on Thursday to look at some of the borough's projects to combat climate change.

He saw the BedZED project - a low carbon housing development in Sutton - the Circle Library and had a tour of other parts of the borough.

Mr Foster, who represents Bath, said: "I have seen for myself today what a terrific example Sutton is of what can be achieved when local councils and communities work together. I've been very impressed by projects like the BedZED low carbon development that showcases the type of buildings we need to build everywhere if we're serious about tackling climate change, and the Circle Library that has involved the whole community in its development.

"And I'm also impressed that Sutton isn't being complacent and is embracing new community rights devolved from central government such as neighbourhood planning, giving Hackbridge residents a real say in how they shape their community for the future."

BedZED is the UK's first large-scale mixed use sustainable community with 100 homes, office space and community facilities. It was completed in 2002.

Sutton Council leader Ruth Dombey said: "We were delighted to welcome Don to Sutton and show him some of the borough’s most innovative schemes.

"He was extremely complimentary about the vision we have for the borough and the work we do here to include all sectors of our diverse community. We will now continue with our plans to make Sutton a greener cleaner borough and look for new and innovative ways to ensure it remains prosperous for all of our residents, encouraging local economic growth and new jobs."