New 'lookout' being constructed over Brownsea Lagoon
Dorset Wildlife Trust has started work on site
Work's begun on a new lookout building on Brownsea Island.
It'll have an elevated viewing platform for bird watchers to see the wetland habitats of the lagoon and the many birds which nest, breed, and feed there.
The building's been commissioned by Dorset Wildlife Trust, to help create the first nature destination for visitors to Brownsea Island.
The whole project is in partnership with the National Trust and being part-funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund with contributions from the National Trust, the Fine Foundation, and Dorset Wildlife Trust members and supporters.
The Wild Brownsea project aims to improve access to Brownsea Island and encourage more visitors to learn about, enjoy and help to conserve the island's natural heritage.
Dorset Wildlife Trust's Chief Executive, Brian Bleese said:
“Our vision for The Lookout was put on hold by the pandemic so it is very exciting to now see our plans finally coming to fruition. As part of the Wild Brownsea project to help people engage with nature and all that Brownsea has to offer, The Lookout will give visitors a unique opportunity to see the internationally important numbers of wild birds of Brownsea's lagoon without in any way disturbing them. We are very much looking forward to seeing The Lookout built over the next few months and to giving visitors a warm welcome."
The National Trust’s Visitor Operations and Experience Manager, Olivia Gruitt said:
“We’re thrilled to be supporting Dorset Wildlife Trust and in particular The Lookout project. Working in partnership we can totally transform the welcome we extend to our visitors and provide a wonderful opportunity for them to get closer to nature.”
Brownsea Island is open to the public every day until the end of September and partially open during October.
The Lookout will be opening in 2024.