In November 2011, work on the J. G. Graves Discovery Centre was completed. The centre was designed and built to be striking, complimentary to it’s surroundings and use sustainable materials and techniques.
Skylights, rainwater reclamation and a biomass heating system all contribute to minimising the impact to the environment. Ecclesall Woods, an ancient woodland and nature reserve, is the setting for this unique building, and the centre will illustrate the relationship of the woods with the surrounding city of Sheffield. The adjoining grounds area currently being landscaped to include ponds and ditches, increasing biodiversity in the area by providing a nationally-declining habitat; of particular benefit to the endangered White-Clawed Crayfish. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the woodland with gentle trails and interpretation panels on the route. Now built, the centre is attracting the people of Sheffield to the site, educating visitors on the sustainable use of the woodland, as well as interactive interpretations of the history of the woods.