Project: Brockholes Wetlands and Woodlands Visitor Centre
Location: Preston, Lancashire
Value: £tbc

The scheme is for a new visitor centre and education facility at a wetlands bird sanctuary in a disused gravel quarry.

The building comprises a series of pavillions containing related building functions with external spaces between them. The access bridges define routes into the heart of the building, providing a communal focus. Visits to the building and site would have a predominately an outdoor experience and generous covered circulation is provided within the visitor centre complex.

Accomodation incluedes an information space that provides a welcome point to the hub of the complex, wildlife exhibition space, classrooms, observation tower with access provided for all age groups and abilities with lift access and wildlife observation equipment. A Restaurant with terrace on the southern aspect of the island overlooking the lagoon, performance area, conference facilities, regional food outlet, arts/gallery space and shop.

Adopting a net zero-carbon strategy enables promotion of environmental best practice. Renewable systems will be combined with energy efficiency measures within the building. Wind and solar energy to optimise output in differing weather conditions. High levels of insulation and airtight construction limit the heat load of the building. A ground-source heat-pump provides efficient heating. Natural passive ventilation. Maximised daylight penetration into the building. Rainwater harvesting. Although non-renewable fossil fuels are avoided, balancing green electricity will be imported & exported to/from the grid to allow greater flexibility and dispense with the need to have on-site electrical storage and their associated environmental problems.

Adoption of Low embodied energy, 'Carbon Sink', renewable, recycled and recyclable building materials with the maximised use of sustainably sourced timber and minimised use of materials with high embodied energy ensures that the building will have a low environmental impact over its lifetime.