The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) in Corris, near Machynlleth, has long been a cornerstone of sustainable education and innovation. After a temporary closure last November due to decreased visitor numbers exacerbated by the pandemic, CAT has unveiled ambitious redevelopment plans. These plans, currently under consideration for funding through the Mid Wales Growth Deal, promise to rejuvenate the centre and expand its impact on sustainable practices and education.
CAT’s proposed redevelopment is comprehensive, envisioning the creation of new and refurbished educational facilities, exhibition spaces, and visitor accommodations. The project includes renovating two existing buildings into dynamic learning environments featuring workshops, studios, labs, and outdoor demonstration areas. This redevelopment is designed to enhance the learning experiences for postgraduate students, attendees of various courses, and visiting educational groups with a focus on practical skills in ecology, food, energy, retrofit, and low-impact building.
A pivotal feature of the new plans is constructing an outdoor ‘forum’ at the site’s heart. This space is envisioned as a covered arena serving multiple functions, including lectures, musical performances, practical demonstrations, and other events. It aims to support increased group visits and provide a venue for larger conferences and gatherings, thus strengthening CAT’s role as a leader in environmental education.
Eileen Kinsman, Co-CEO of CAT, emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change and environmental destruction. “Our adaptable, custom-built learning spaces will allow us to cater to a wider range of groups and courses, offering an enhanced learning experience,” she stated. This reflects CAT’s commitment to adapting to current educational needs and leading by example in sustainability.
The redevelopment plans also include significant upgrades to visitor amenities, such as expanded accommodation facilities and a larger café area, which will enhance the centre’s capacity to host residential courses and special events. A new visitor experience is planned, incorporating a refurbished cliff railway and a fresh introductory exhibition that explores environmental issues and solutions. Additional themed exhibition zones will cover various topics, from biodiversity to the future of clean energy and sustainable urban development.
A spokesperson for the centre explained that their goal is to encourage visitors to think about the possibilities of contributing to the fight against climate change. They also aim to inspire them to play their part in sustainability with how they live their everyday lives. The immersive tours, hands-on activities, and interactive displays will engage them, making learning fun and impactful.
Central to the redevelopment is a regenerative approach that prioritises refurbishing and reusing existing spaces. Using low-impact materials and maximising the use of renewable energy, CAT aims to minimise its environmental footprint while enhancing the site’s rich biodiversity.
The project is also expected to substantially benefit the local community and the Mid Wales economy by creating new jobs and opportunities for local suppliers. Kinsman also noted that these plans will go beyond redevelopment. They are a valuable investment in the community and a promise to work toward a better future.
With the project timelines depending on securing the necessary funding, CAT actively seeks match-funding from charitable trusts, foundations, and individual contributors. The development has already garnered support from the UK Community Renewal Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, among other donors.
As CAT prepares to roll out these plans more broadly, a series of physical and online events will be hosted later this year to engage with supporters, members, students, and the local community. These events will provide further insights into the project’s details and seek to foster a collaborative atmosphere for feedback and engagement.
CAT’s visionary plans aim to revitalise its facilities and offerings and reassert its role as a pivotal leader in sustainable education and community engagement. This transformative project promises to make the Centre for Alternative Technology a beacon of sustainable innovation and an essential destination for learning and discovery in the realm of environmental stewardship.
