The RSPB will begin improvement works this month at their Bowling Green Hide in Topsham, Devon. Using funding from Viridor Credits Environmental Company, electricity, lighting, heating and new flooring will be installed. All or part of the hide will be closed at points to accommodate the improvement works. See below for dates and full details.
Morwenna Alldis, spokesperson for the RSPB South West said: “Last month we announced that Viridor Credits have awarded us funding to transform our Bowling Green hide in Topsham, into a popular wild space for wildlife, the local community and visitors to enjoy. We’re really excited to update everyone that improvement works commence this month.
“Contractors will begin by installing electricity, lighting and heating into the newer extension of the hide. This will enable a more versatile use of the space throughout the year by visitors, the local community and school groups. New flooring will also be fitted throughout the whole hide, giving it a warmer and more welcoming feel.
“The funding from Viridor Credits also enables us to develop the garden at the front of the hide – installing homes and food for wildlife, a wildlife pond, bug hotel and wildlife friendly planting. The garden will be used to demonstrate to visitors how they can effectively give nature a home in their own gardens too and visitors will be encouraged to use the garden for picnics and relaxation.
“We hope these improvements will encourage more usage of the hide and garden and encourage visitors to stay longer to connect with the spectacular nature that our Bowling Green nature reserve plays home to.
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Image by Eleanor Bentall (www.rspb-images.com)
Important Renovation Dates:
Closures to the disabled parking bay
Sammy Fraser, Visitor Experience Manager for Devon said: “Whilst the newer section of the hide will be closed for us to carry out exciting new work thanks to Viridor Credits funding, the older section of the hide will remain open – although it may be a tad noisy at times!
“We apologise for any inconvenience this temporary closure causes, but we promise it will be worth it. If you have any enquiries or concerns, please contact the Exe Estuary reserve team on: 01392 833311
“Fear not, visitors can still enjoy the beauty of Bowling Green Marshes nature reserve by visiting our Viewing Platform, situated at the end of Bowling Green Lane. This site offers breathtaking views across the Exe Estuary, right across the water to Exmouth and visitors may even spot an osprey feeding.
“Our RSPB shop, located at Darts Farm and only a 20 minute walk from the hide, will also be open as normal. We have a viewing screen located on Darts farm, which offers a great opportunity to get to know the range of wildlife that calls Topsham home.”
To keep up-to-date with the improvement works please visit: www.facebook.com/RSPBSW
Ends
For further information and to arrange an interview, please contact:
Morwenna Alldis, RSPB Communications Officer, 01392 453767, morwenna.alldis@rspb.org.uk