Princess Royal opens Birches Valley

New environmental classrooms at Cannock Forest in Staffordshire were officially opened this week by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

During her visit to Birches Valley in Cannock Chase, HRH the Princess Royal met representatives from the Forestry Commission, CEMEX (sponsors of the environmental education facilities), Cannock Chase District Council and Staffordshire County Council.

As well as unveiling a plaque at the new Tree House Centre she walked a section of the new Chase Heritage Trail and talked to members of groups including the Chase Trails mountain bike group, the Healthy Hearts walking group, the Riding for the Disabled Group and students from Fair Oak Business and Enterprise College.

The new, 347 m2 Tree House Centre has been developed by the Forestry Commission and supported with funding from building materials company CEMEX. The environmentally friendly centre is well-insulated and constructed from renewable FSC-certified timber. It is supported by 64 oak posts, reducing the ground impact and the amount of concrete used. The rear posts have been left visible to form features in the two classrooms, that each accommodate up to 60 students.