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Derbyshire Eco Centre

Find out about our eco-friendly building at Middleton-by-Wirksworth, and the courses we offer.


Derbyshire Eco Centre

Derbyshire Eco Centre is the county hub for sustainability learning. It's at the heart of our drive to combat climate change. The centre offers a high quality, enjoyable and supportive environment in which to learn the skills we need to enjoy living sustainably and lead lower carbon lifestyles.

The centre encourages learning that brings together the interests of people, places and prosperity. It's the first centre of its kind in the country.

You can find the Derbyshire Eco Centre on Facebook.

Our courses

Our programme covers a wide range of skills to help us live more lightly on the earth. Everyone can enjoy being active, growing, making, recycling and exploring new ideas with us through taster sessions, longer courses and qualifications.

View Derbyshire Eco Centre courses

Dry stone walling

Find out more about our dry stone walling qualification courses.

You can find out more information or book courses by email: ecocentre@derbyshire.gov.uk or tel: 01629 533038.

Royal Horticultural Society courses (RHS)

Find out more about our RHS qualification courses. If you'd like to be contacted about courses starting in September 2024, please email ecocentre@derbyshire.gov.uk or tel: 01629 533038.

Derbyshire Eco Centre building

Derbyshire Eco Centre was built using sustainable methods, materials and technology to create an all-weather facility that delivers heritage building skills, rural crafts, arts, sustainability and biodiversity.

We've designed and built the centre and the surrounding landscape to gain an 'excellent' standard from the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Measure.

In 2021 we were shortlisted for a Green Gown Award by the Environmental Association of Universities and Colleges. It was in the category of 'Colleges and Smaller Institutions'.

The centre is constructed using sustainable methods, materials and technologies including local stone, a living green roof, rainwater harvesting, air source heat pump and solar panels.

The construction of the building is important in promoting sustainability to learners, partners, community groups, organisations and the wider public.