A bid to make Colchester United's new stadium more eco-friendly could push up the final price-tag by £500,000.

Council bosses are looking at a package of measures - including a £250,000 power-generating wind turbine - to boost the 10,000-seater ground's green credentials.

They also want to store rain to water the pitch and flush the stadium's toilets. It can take 40,000 litres of water a day to keep the turf in good condition.

The improvements are designed to make the £14 million stadium more sustainable.

It will cost more, but council chiefs say the move could save cash in the long run.

Regeneration spokesman Brian Jarvis said: "Given the general feeling now towards sustainable and green issues, we have a duty to sit down and see if we can justify some of these measures.

"It might be worth putting in money up front, so long as we can save money in future."

The project already boasts some green features - such as steps to encourage fans to leave their cars at home on match days.

The additional proposals - including solar panels and other energy-saving technology - are due to be discussed by council bosses next Wednesday.