At RLB, one of our key commitments is bringing value to the communities that we operate within. We are therefore proud to be collaborating with Britcon, Defra and Natural England to deliver the new Volunteer, Community and Nature Recovery Science Hub at the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve, providing project management, design oversight and coordination services.
This landmark development will create a hub that will serve as a centre for environmental science, education and wellbeing. The facility will feature a wildlife watchtower, laboratory, meeting space, and overnight bunk accommodation for visiting researchers and student groups. It will also host training and skills development opportunities, encouraging wider participation in conservation and nature recovery.
The hub will help connect communities with the environment, reduce barriers to scientific research, and strengthen understanding of birdlife of European importance. With around 40,000 people visiting the reserve each year, the new facility will enhance these experiences while supporting vital conservation outcomes. Sustainability sits at the heart of our approach.
The Lower Derwent Valley is one of the UK’s most important sites for biodiversity. It provides vital habitat for rare and threatened breeding birds, as well as internationally significant populations of wintering species. It is also home to some of the country’s last remaining unimproved, seasonally flooded hay meadows, making it a crucial focus for long-term conservation.
Craig Ralston, Senior Reserve Manager at Natural England, said:
“This new facility is a unique opportunity to research, restore and protect nature, both within the reserve and across the wider landscape, by working closely with our partners and local communities.
We know that growth will be even better for people if it’s nature positive. The new volunteer, community and nature recovery science hub will be a powerful tool with multiple benefits. Once completed, it will break down research barriers for the reserve’s birdlife, which are of European significance, and build sustainable growth for future visitor numbers. This will ensure that local communities have easy access to the opportunities and benefits that come from a healthy natural environment.”
Don Stewart, Strategic Director at Britcon, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to have been appointed as the main contractor for this important research project at the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve. It’s a privilege to help create a space that will support nature recovery, facilitate important scientific work, and deliver health and wellbeing benefits for many visitors and stakeholders.”
Justina Edge, Associate at RLB comments:
“It is an honour to contribute to the future of the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve – an area of exceptional ecological and cultural value. This project reflects the power of collaboration and our shared commitment to sustainability, conservation and community engagement.”
For more information, please visit: Steel signing celebrated at Lower Derwent Valley NNR
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