This inspirational centrepiece to the Fishlake Meadows Nature Reserve and World of Water redevelopment will create a focus for all visitors. Taking its form from the thistle, the sustainably constructed three-tier structure will provide unprecedented views over the wildlife-rich water meadows.
Closely collaborating with The Hampshire & IoW Wildlife Trust, ep projects are designing and coordinating the delivery of a unique three-tier viewing and educational hide to the 170-acre Fishlake Meadows nature reserve.
The legacy project will provide a focal point for the visitor and allow circular walks around the reserve. Providing the Wildlife Trust team with a facility to inform and educate the visitors and allow controlled access to enjoy the wellbeing of this beautiful site.
Locally Sourced Materials
The structure is entirely constructed from locally grown Douglas Fir which will be engineered by a nearby sawmill and their skilled team. The design is bespoke to the location and will allow controlled numbers of the public to enjoy unprecedented views across the reserve.
Accessibility
Access for all is an essential part of the design, with an integral lift to the hide as well as ramped access throughout all aspects of the visitor journey. Test Valley schools and groups, along with the local community and visitors from further afield, will all be able to enjoy this ground-breaking facility accessed via the proposed visitor centre located on the previous World of Water site.
Site Sensitivity & Connectivity
As the centrepiece of the £10 million World of Water development, the Tower Hide will be constructed with minimal intrusion to the nature reserve and be accessed via a raised timber walkway and bridges over the Fishlake Stream from the visitor centre and café buildings. This walkway will then link North via riverside pathways to the existing public routes already in use within Fishlake Meadows.
We are consulting with Test Valley tourism, environmental groups, local societies, businesses and the public to ensure this is a successful and welcome addition to local visitor attractions and provides a truly inspiring response to enhance such a valuable natural capital asset.
Call us if you want help with project planning, design and development
