The following press release has been issued by Staffordshire County Council.

The Renewable Energy Centre is in the Halmer End Ward of the Borough Council.

A flagship renewable energy project at Apedale Community Country Park in Newcastle-under-Lyme will officially open on the Friday.

The Visitor Centre at Apedale will be officially opened by Leader of Staffordshire County Council Phillip Atkins at 10.30am.

County Councillor Phillip Atkins said the centre was a great resource for local people.

“Apedale Visitor Centre provides a fantastic base for local people and community groups to come along and take part in environmental activities. It is a model of sustainable building and practice, acting as a flagship building for the region. By visiting the centre and taking on board the energy conservation messages, people can save money in their own homes.”

County Councillor Mark Winnington, Cabinet member for Environment and Assets, added: “Apedale country park is incredibly popular with the local community. The beauty spot already attracts hoards of visitors and the centre will bring even people to the area.

“It is an innovatively designed building with features and activities that appeal to people of all ages.”

Local community groups and school children will be part of the event, joining the craft and gardening projects which will form the basis of activities at the centre.

Construction of the Apedale Visitor Centre began last year and it is one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in the region. Energy conservation and management is central to the building and the centre demonstrates renewable energy options that can be used in homes.

Following the official launch, the centre will be open to the public and will be used as a base for the County Ranger Service to manage the country park.