Southwark launches UK’s largest council community investment scheme

Southwark has launched one of the UKs largest council community investment schemes with the aim to raise £6million for its climate programme by 2030.

Southwark Green Investment, also known as a Community Municipal Investment, launched today to offer residents and businesses the chance to invest in green projects while earning a “low-risk”, fixed return of 4.6 per cent a year, across five years.

The investments will be used to fund a range of projects from Southwark’s climate programme. The first round of funding will go towards the installation of cycle hangars, new LED street lighting and green upgrades at schools and leisure centres. 

Deputy cabinet member for green finance, Councillor Emily Hickson, said: “We’re taking urgent action in Southwark to tackle the climate emergency – but we know the scale of the challenge means we can’t do it alone. 

“Southwark Green Investment presents an unprecedented opportunity for our community to contribute to a sustainable future while reaping financial benefits. 

“By investing as little as £5, residents can help us hit our ambitious net-zero target and foster a greener, fairer and safer Southwark.”

The process will be managed by investment company Abundance Investment on behalf of Southwark council.

Returns on investments will be distributed biannually into investors’ Abundance accounts, offering flexibility to withdraw or reinvest funds as desired.

To invest in Southwark Green Investment, visit https://www.abundanceinvestment.com/our-investments/councils/southwark-green-investment-1    

A family of cyclists in Southwark Park (Picture: Southwark council)