Laying a Strong Foundation at Gosforth Nature Reserve

Volunteers working to improve Gosforth Nature Reserve have received a helping hand from Capita who are generously helping lay strong foundations for future improvements on site.

Volunteers working to improve Gosforth Nature Reserve have received a helping hand from Capita who have generously donated 40 tonnes of stone, laying strong foundations for ongoing improvements on site.

This material will provide solid footings for range of improvements, including a relocated Information Hut, new bike racks to encourage sustainable travel and a dedicated new utility area where passionate volunteers can safely and securely store important equipment used to manage habitats on site.

Not only is Capita providing the materials, but they will also deliver and install the stone themselves, providing a helping hand to volunteers at a time when larger work parties remain suspended.

Capita’s Construction team delivers major engineering projects on behalf of North Tyneside Council and other clients. Recent works included sustainable travel improvements along the A189 Salters’ Lane, which is near the nature reserve.

Laying the foundations of the new volunteer utility area

All work at Gosforth Nature Reserve is carried out by committed volunteers who work around the clock to improve the site for people and wildlife. For Capita to not only to provide free materials but to provide assistance installing stonework is a fantastic contribution and one which we are incredibly grateful for

Clare Freeman, NHSN Director

The new works supported by Capita will not only provide a strong basis for new infrastructure but will help improve existing pathways around the reserve entrance, improving accessibility for visitors of all ages.

Supported by The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (North East LEP), volunteers have started work to create a new entrance to the north of Lake Lodge. This will provide a wonderful wooded entrance to the nature reserve and with the installation of new fencing along Salter’s Lane, will help keep the site and important wildlife safe and secure.

On your next visit, you may notice that a few things have changed. Preparations for the new Field Station continues at pace, with the dilapidated garages near Lake Lodge now removed and the area cleared for construction. Set to provide opportunities to study and enjoy nature to people of all ages and backgrounds from right across the North East, volunteers cannot wait to share this with you soon.

As a family man myself I can imagine that there are many young people who will benefit enormously from having improved facilities at the reserve. 

“We are particularly pleased to be able to help at a time when people’s connection with nature will be so beneficial as we emerge from the pandemic

Chris Smart, Senior Project Manager in Capita’s Construction Team

Ultimately, support from North East LEP and Capita will help improve Gosforth Nature Reserve for people of all ages and backgrounds across the North East, helping future proof the reserve and ensuring it continues to inspire wonder and connect people with nature for years to come. We cannot thank them enough.