This funding will be allocated towards urgent improvements at WTSWW’s Welsh Wildlife Centre in Pembrokeshire, designed to enhance visitor experiences and foster accessibility.
The grant will support a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering sustainability, energy efficiency, and overall accessibility of the Welsh Wildlife Center. Key improvements include the installation of solar film and energy-efficient wall heaters for more comfortable temperatures in the visitor centre.
As part of energy efficiency measures and as part of our journey to net zero, solar panels will be installed on the roof of the Harlow Building and electric bike and car charging points will be installed, encouraging sustainable transportation options for visitors.
Surface and drainage repairs will improve the entrance road. The safety and convenience of visitors will be enhanced with the creation of safe passing places, repair of the car park, secure bike racks and new steps and handrails. The addition of benches and resting places will create inviting spaces for guests to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. A new natural play area in the top meadow will provide an engaging experience for families, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
To further enrich the visitor experience, new bilingual entrance and orientation signage will be installed, celebrating the region's rich biodiversity while catering to a diverse audience.
Sarah Kessell, Chief Executive Officer of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, expressed her excitement about the funding and the positive impact these improvements will have on the Welsh Wildlife Centre and its visitors.
"The Welsh Wildlife Centre helps contribute to the superb visitor offer and quality of life in this part of Wales. Like many other businesses and tourist attractions in Wales we have suffered from a lack of available grants over many years to invest in our facilities, and are most grateful for this opportunity to make a number of urgent improvements that will benefit visitors, volunteers and staff.”
The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales is committed to its mission of conserving wildlife and wild places, and this funding marks a pivotal step towards achieving a more inclusive and environmentally conscious future.
The UKSPF is one of the UK Government funds replacing European funding streams that are no longer available after Brexit. It is also part of the UK Government's levelling-up agenda.
