Reed Hide wraps are off
Unique designer bird hide opens to public
The diggers have left, the hammering has stopped, the mud has dried up ( well, nearly!) and the only sound near the new hide is that of the young herons screeching as they make trial flights around the island. The Reed Hide is now officially open to the public - and according to comments already received it is well worth a visit. This project, a major part of the ALSF funded project has been the collaborative work of Stroud based designer Helen Shackleton and engineer Lloyd Turner.
“Reed Hide” is an octagonal structure of wood, rammed earth, and woven hazel, incorporating bat boxes in the extraordinary roof, and decorated internally with murals of the water birds that can be found locally.
The hide is accessible from Bridge car park, walking along the old railway route, Sustrans Route 45 - or from Waterhay car park, along the Thames Path, or from Cricklade, again along the Sustrans Route 45.
Two visiting birders have already sent in some feedback:
"The new bird hide is fantastic, really smart looking and cool inside as well. It will really make a difference to that part of the park, especially when the reeds are mature. The old bird hide has massively benefited from it's new location as well. I for one much appreciate all your efforts in getting it all underway and really look forward to the coming months and years." SD
"Had a super circular walk today, starting from Waterhay, along the Thames Path to the new complex at Cleveland,on along the track past 75, then back along the road past Twitchers to Kent End Pit, then back to the carpark. We were all most impressed with the changes which have been made and I would like to congratulate you and your team on everything you have done. The Reed Hide is most impressive (what a modern concept!), the resiting of the Cleveland Hide couldn't be in a better position, and the walk around 68a well laid out. You have obviously put in a tremendous amount of work. Well done!! I do hope that it is not abused or vandalised in any way." KC
Look out for details of a community event to be held there in early September.
