A breakthrough energy saving scheme being trialled in Archway will save residents more than �300,000 in fuel bills this winter.

More than 1,500 households have had their eco credentials boosted as part of the Mayor of London-funded Archway Low Carbon Zone – which Islington Council estimates will slash �322,000 from their bills.

Insulation and greener boilers have been installed after “energy doctors” visited to give homes the once-over.

Gwyn Jones, 76, of Pemberton Gardens, said: “The zone has given us a �500 trade-in on a brand new boiler and energy saving help and advice.”

The council says 2,900 tonnes of carbon dioxide have been saved since its launch in December 2009.

Cllr Paul Smith, the council’s executive member for environment, said: “Record fuel price hikes announced this month are unfair on many poorer residents who last winter faced the stark choice of whether to ‘heat or eat’.

“The enthusiasm for the scheme and the progress we’ve made, means people will be warmer this winter.”