As project manager for the new visitor centre at Sherwood Forest, Ross Frazer is ideally positioned to update on this exciting venture, which is being led by the RSPB.
Apologies for not updating for a while - I know how many people are watching this exciting project with great interest!
May was quite a landmark month for us, as we actually saw diggers move on site, and work begin on phase one, which includes the building of the new car park to serve the visitor centre, as well as associated road works and an access road to the adjoining cemetery.
Whilst phase two is where it really gets exciting – when we start work on the actual visitor centre – it still gave everyone a buzz to see activity on site, and the feeling that things are really starting to move forward.
We’re hoping for good weather over the summer – well, isn’t everyone?! – but in our case, it will ensure we stay on track for a summer 2018 opening of the new centre.
Having been part of the project from its early inception, to now see our carefully drafted plans begin to transform from paper into something solid and real is thrilling – even if it is only a car park at this stage!
Our contractors are local construction firm, Woodhead Ltd, based in Edwinstowe, the village neighbouring the forest, so it is great to be working with a company which is truly local, and has a real understanding of and a passion for the forest.
Soon we’ll have confirmed the programme of works for phase two, which will allow us to give a more accurate date for opening.
We look forward to sharing this with everyone, and especially to the part where we break ground on the new centre, and take a giant step closer to delivering a building we believe will create a fitting gateway to this magical place.
RSPB development projects manager, Neil Kellythorn, with members of the Woodhead Construction team, at the start of phase one.
Thanks again for your continued interest and support for our exciting project!
Ross