The construction of a new visitor centre and café at Broadland County Park in Norfolk has marked a major milestone.
The project, led by Broadland District Council and delivered by Munnings Construction, was spurred on in direct response to visitor feedback, which identified public toilets and refreshments as the most requested improvements to the park.
A ‘topping out’ ceremony has been held to mark the completion of the building’s highest point, bringing the project an important step closer to completion.
Cllr Martin Booth, Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member, said: “We asked our visitors how we could improve their experience, and the availability of toilets and refreshments came top of the list.
“We have listened, and now we are delivering with this fantastic new facility.
“The new visitor centre and café will be a wonderful addition to Broadland Country Park.”
The visitor’s centre and café have been built with sustainability in mind, with the council working closely with local architects and specialist contractors to ensure the project is as eco-friendly as possible.
The council has also committed to achieving operational net-zero CO2e emissions from the café and visitor centre, integrating renewable energy systems such as heat pumps and solar panels, along with the use of sustainable materials in its construction.
The ceremony comes at a time of massive growth for the park. Following the formal handover of management to the Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT), the site is set to double in size.
Through a partnership between the council and NWT, the acquisition of Drayton Drewray will add 114 acres to the south of the site, bringing the total area to more than 250 acres.
Broadland District Council Leader, Cllr Sue Holland, said: “Broadland Country Park is a special place and as custodians it’s our duty to protect this beautiful asset for future generations.
“This wonderful new addition is designed to increase the park’s appeal as an outdoor destination where residents can spend time together, have fun and enjoy nature.”
While Norfolk Wildlife Trust now serves as the principal manager of the site, utilising its expertise in protecting and restoring wildlife, Broadland District Council remains a key stakeholder, ensuring the park continues to serve the residents of Felthorpe, Horsford and the wider Greater Norwich area.
The visitor centre and café project is funded equally by the Greater Norwich Growth Board, business rates and S106 contributions.
