£1m eco-centre gets the green light to go
Top Lodge at Fineshade Wood has been created using local and natural materials and renewable energy systems to develop former 18th century barns into a state-of-the-art recreation and information complex.
It is designed to offer visitors the chance to find out about the local environment, see wildlife up close, and learn about local crafts and the heritage of the ancient woodland.
The project is at the heart of the River Nene Regional Park (RNRP) initiative and is the brainchild of the Forestry Commission, which has built the centre with partners including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Rockingham Forest Craft Guild.
It was officially opened by Forestry Commission chairman Lord David Clark yesterday.
He said: “This magnificent set of buildings deliver important sustainability principles in every fibre, and the use of natural materials and sympathetic development ensure it is in keeping with the ancient woodland.
“Top Lodge shows how we can work responsibly and sustainably with the environment, and yet produce enticing and exciting results to draw people in to explore, experience and enjoy the natural world around us.”
The vast majority of the materials used were local and naturally sourced,
including wood from sustainably-managed ancient woodlands. Sheep wool has been used as eco-friendly roof insulation material. The site also has one of the biggest reed bed sewerage systems in the country.
Rockingham Forest manager Kevin Stannard said: “Woodlands offer a brilliant green and safe space for people to enjoy, and Top Lodge will help us deliver our commitment to get more people out, active, and benefiting from the fresh air, offering them the space to run, walk and let off energy.
“With more than 26 kilometres of cycle trails and walks through the forest, all-ability access into the woodland, and all the things on offer, we hope people will come back time and again. So far we have had more than 2,000 people using the site, and that is before it has been officially launched.”
The project is nine miles north of Corby on the A43, has been developed through funding from the RNRP.
The files information from: northantset.co.uk