YOU may not be surprised to find a turfed roof in the highlands of Scotland or the Lake District, but Waltham Forest? Surely not.

Nevertheless, that is what the Hornbeam Environmental Centre is planning to install at its base in Hoe Street, Walthamstow.

Planted turf roofs are very popular in other parts of the world, especially Germany, Scandinavia and Iceland, but are not so common in the UK, especially in city areas.

They are very rare in London, the best-known examples being at Cannon Street station and Kew Gardens.

Centre co-ordinator Jowanna Lewis came up with the idea of transforming the building about ten years ago but has had to wait until now for her colleagues to agree on the unorthodox plan.

"It will protect the building from moisture and is also a very good insulator.

"It would make the city a lot greener if there were more turf roofs," she said.

"We wanted to do it because it is an alternative roofing material that blends in.

"It is a natural feature that is easy on the eye and it provides additional eco-system space for various insects and birds.

"It will be a part of the front of the roof, and will be very visible from the pavement."

Grass roofing is a popular way of softening grey and built-up areas and also provides extra space for garden activities.

The centre is planning to transform the roof into a wild flower garden, at the cost of about £3,500, which will also pay for replacing the structure of the roof as well.

The aim is to make it a natural meadow-like attraction, unlike some turf roofs, whose owners regularly cut them with lawnmowers.

Staff at the Hornbeam Centre held a sustainable roof exhibition last month, explaining to the public the plans in store for the venue as well as giving more background on the idea of such roofs.

Ms Lewis said: "We will take it around to other places as well. We want to exhibit in libraries and schools."

The cost of the roof will be covered by a grant from the council and money towards the environmental cost will come from Bridge House Estates Trust, while a lot of time and effort has been promised from all staff at Hornbeam.

Hornbeam staff hope the turfing of the roof will be completed by Christmas.