A special ground-breaking event in Belfairs Park launches building work for the exciting new Belfairs Woodland Centre.
The Worshipful the Mayor of Southend, Councillor Sally Carr, will conduct the ceremony for this enthralling joint project between Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Essex WildlifeTrust.
This £800,000 Centre, funded by a variety of organisations and private individuals, including a Heritage Lottery Grant, will be a base to launch activities and events connected with the park and the woods - open to the whole community with opportunities to explore, experience, learn and enjoy.
It is part of a larger Belfairs Park Project to engage schools, and the rest of the community in volunteering, education and family adventures. The building which will incorporate sustainable materials and energy efficient technology, is due to be completed by next summer.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Derek Jarvis said: “It is a very special moment to reach this ground-breaking stage - a landmark step for this flourishing project which has involved members of the public at every stage. It really aims to appeal to, and to involve the whole community,
John Hall, Chief Executive Officer of Essex Wildlife Trust said: “This is a wonderful day for Belfairs Park, marking the fruition of an inspirational community project, of which the Woodland Centre will become an exciting focal point. Belfairs is part of a Living Landscape that contains vital ancient woodland, supporting rare and cherished species, such as the Dormouse. It is already a special place but it is about to become even better for wildlife, for the future and for the people of Essex.”
