FPCR were successful entrants in a design competition held by the local authority and judged by the end users of the adventure play area. Located adjacent to The Natural World Centre and picturesque lake set within Whisby Nature Park, the adventure area has become a popular leisure attraction for young families. The area provides access to nature for younger visitors in innovative ways, and was designed in close consultation with the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust who manage the reserve. FPCR were appointed to produce detail design proposals and manage implementation on site.
‘The Exploratory’ includes two 9 metre high timber towers accessed from a raised walkway featuring rope-walks over the water. A separate island accommodating a bird hide and ‘Lookout’ with periscope is accessed by means of a floating pontoon.
The combined use of natural materials and the retention of adjacent mature vegetation has ensured the built features blend in well with their surroundings and do not detract from the nature reserve.
Interpretation panels and interaction with the equipment educates users on wildlife and habitats found within the Nature Park. ‘The Cave’ complete with hemispherical dome allows children to experience life as a burrowing animal, while oversized bat box and bird box attached to ‘The Exploratory’ give children a birds-eye perspective.
