Project Details:

The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is a rare coastal landscape of outstanding geological, biological, cultural and heritage value.

The 465-hectare nature reserve is one of the most important nature conservation sites on the south coast and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a European Special Protection Area and a proposed Ramsar site.

The previous visitor centre was of very poor quality/condition, the building was demolished with a new purpose built visitor centre constructed. The centre will now act as a focal point for visitors to interpret wildlife and to increase the desire for a wildlife-rich environment, with the aims to raise awareness of the natural world, encourage involvement and inspire people through education, outreach and participation. The Visitor Centre includes a reception, education and public engagement and interpretation areas, as well as a retail area, a viewing and café area, catering facilities, public toilets, staff and volunteer office space and common room/kitchen, storage for each of these functions, plus a covered area for vehicles and tools.