Bright future for Wolvehampton outdoor learning centre as ground broken on new facility

A Black Country environmental centre has broken ground on a new facility for expanding outdoor learning.

The groundbreaking ceremony is celebrated by those in attendance. At the front is: Louise Ward (Wolverhampton Homes), Tony Stewart (Wildside Actvity Centre), Cyril Barrett (Former Goodyears Workers Benevolent Fund), Angie Barnes (Asda). At the back is: Mark hand from the centre, Sophie Wells, Paul Baugh, Mark Jenkins, Sean Stewart (Fire Fighter who is volunteering).

Wildside Activity Centre, based in Wolverhampton, has kick-started its latest project with a mission of reconnecting people with the great outdoors.

The educational learning environment in Whitmore Reans has received charitable donations from the Asda Foundation, Wolverhampton Homes and the 5/344 Transport and General Workers Union Benevolent Fund, to develop a new outdoor learning space.

Wildside's business development manager, Mark Hand, broke ground on the site on Thursday with Cyril Barrett, chairman of the benevolent fund, and spoke about the potential for the new facility.

"This new facility will double the footprint of the indoor teaching and learning spaces available here at Wildside," said Mr Hand.

"The log cabin situated in the middle of our woodland offers an environment which is more closely aligned to the sense of ‘learning in, and through the natural world’ which lies at the heart of the Wildside ethos."

This summer, the centre is offering a wide range of activities including boat trips, den building and canoeing.

It wants to encourage people of all ages and abilities to get out and enjoy the outdoors, and importantly connect with individuals experiencing deprivation across Wolverhampton.

The centre strives to make its activities as accessible as possible.

Funding from the three organisations included plans and foundations for the cabin and financial donations.

Mr Barrett said: “We have a long-standing, positive relationship with Wildside and we have always been impressed with the vital work the charity does.

“This latest project will enable Wildside to extend its offering to local families and community organisations who can reap the incredible benefits of being in a natural environment right here in the middle of the city.

"We are extremely pleased to be supporting Wildside once again."

For more information on Wildside Activity Centre, go to wildsideac.co.uk/summer-holiday-activities

Report by Megan Turner