Bird Hide Project
A two storey timber structure designed by Cambridge based
architecture practice, State of Design Ltd., for an exhibition held
at the Corn Exchange as part of Architecture Week 2006 has been
donated to us.
The architect, Sabin Anca, has worked with us to
adapt his structure and produce the plans for a bird hide. As well
as re-using the timber frame, sustainability principles have been applied
where possible in building the hide - timber was sourced from managed
woodlands, an environmentally friendly paint finish was used, part of
the roof structure is a 'green roof' and rain water run off is
collected into a water butt to top up a birdbath/drinking pool. The ground
floor is fully accessible for disabled people. Outside there is an
information board - detailing birdlife, habitats and sustainability issues
and listing the hide sponsors.
As well as providing a hidden observation point for
birdwatching for visitors and school groups, the hide
also provides a shelter from the elements in the depth of the Park, and a
lookout from which to enjoy views over woodland and meadows. The site for
the hide in the woodland copse on the northern edge of
Varley's Field, just off the main perimeter path, has been
carefully chosen to provide an observation point for the
Park's woodland and meadow bird species.
It looks out over a hazel copse, woodland edge planting, the 'Arable Patch',
and the grazed chalk-rich grassland of Varley's Field. In time log piles,
dense shrubby areas and climbing plants screening the building and fencing,
and nest boxes, will attract birds to feed and, we hope, nest at
a suitable observation distance.
The Hide was formally launced on Friday 10 February 2012 by Catherine Cairns, chair of the Properties Committee.
More details here.
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