Opening of "The Yan" by Sutherland Hussey Architects'

A new community centre, the Yan, dedicated to leading a more sustainable life-style by promoting awareness and encouraging conservation at an early age, was opened in Grizedale Forest on the 23rd of June by Lord Clark of Windermere, the Chairman of the Forestry Commission.

The Yan will provide new facilities for schools and community groups to encourage conservation and environmental projects. It has a modern design, constructed out of sustainable timber, and will be powered by a woodchip boiler. The building, which takes its name from the Cumbrian word for 'one', has been described by client the Forestry Commission as its 'most innovative building for 50 years'. “The Yan is an important part of the Grizedale Project, a programme of sustainable changes taking place in the forest that are designed to benefit the local economy and local communities, as well improving the quality of the visitor experience here.” The Forestry Commission has placed a high priority on safeguarding and enhancing the environment and protecting the special qualities of the area as part of this project, which is due to be completed in autumn 2008. further information about the Grizedale Project