The Challenge
The logistics and constraints of the site made this a challenging project to deliver. Areas of the surrounding nature reserve have been designated both as a Wetlands Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Teesmouth and Cleveland Special Protection Area (SPA). Landscaping to make the building fully accessible to families and disabled users, including the addition of the main new “dragonfly path” along with other walking routes and trails around the building, had to be undertaken without impacting the sensitive ecology. This requirement fed into the programme, with the works on site needing to be completed in just a few months in order to avoid bird breeding seasons.
The project also had a very tight budget and was funded by a diverse range of public and private stakeholders. Our role as cost consultant was integral to ensuring the scheme could move ahead at each stage and ultimately be delivered within the budget envelope.
The Outcome
The entire project team had to employ resourcefulness, collaboration and communication to get the project over the line, and the result is a much cherished community asset. The hard landscaping was delivered with zero environmental impact, whilst works to the pools themselves have created a better feeding and breeding habitat for wading birds and local wildlife.
The RSPB have reported a big increase in footfall and a wider user demographic, including schools, families, tourists and organisations supporting disadvantaged groups as well as avid bird watchers. The building is now used for community outreach and education programmes, supporting the RSPB’s Saving Nature strategy.
The project was shortlisted for a RIBAJ MacEwen Award 2021 and won a Civic Trust Award 2021.