The Innovation Centre
The Forest of Mercia Innovation Centre at Chasewater Country Park was opened in April 2001. A modern, pioneering purpose-built facility, it is the home of the Forest of Mercia and is located at the heart of the Forest.
The Innovation Centre is made entirely from wood and is insulated by a material made from recycled newspapers. With heating supplied by a wood-burning combustor and a 'green roof' covered in plants which also helps with insulation and reduces the amount of rainwater running into the drains, it is truly environmentally friendly and sustainable. What's more, being clad in Western Red Cedar, it is one of the most attractive and striking buildings in the region and complements its exceptional waterside location.
The Innovation Centre is open every day to the public and admission is free. Exhibitions are held at the Centre every month with recent displays from the Chasewater Wildlife Group, Cannock Wood Turners and the Cannock Photographic Society. Exhibitions after the many children's activity days are also a feature. Please visit the news section for details of the current exhibition; we're always looking for new ideas, displays and demonstrations so please contact us if you have something suitable or if you have any suggestions for future activities.
Drinks and refreshments are available from The South Shore Café which is open 7 days a week throughout the year, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, confectionery, ice creams and light meals. South Shore Café opening times are:
| Monday - Friday | Saturday and Sunday | |
|---|---|---|
| April - September | 11.00am - 4.00pm | 11.00am - 5.00pm |
| October - March | 11.00am - 4.00pm | 11.00am - 4.00pm |
Chasewater Country Park incorporates 300 hectares of water and open space and is the perfect place for a host of activities including water-skiing, sailing, and angling and there is even a steam railway. There are also excellent bird-watching, rambling and cycling opportunities and a network of surfaced paths means that it is suitable for everyone.
Other facilities include ample free car parking, lavatories and baby changing facilities. The Innovation Centre is fully accessible for people with disabilities.
The Innovation Centre is very easy to reach by car, public transport, on foot or bicycle! It is near Brownhills, just north of the M6 Toll motorway and the A5 - click here for a location map.