Located on the Bristol Channel between the two Severn Bridges, this private commission was from a client who is very adept at making use of sites that others cannot think what to do with. Formerly an MOD rifle range, the site had been used for grazing by a local farmer - as indeed it still is. But with judicious alterations to the landscape and drainage our client has managed to create a successful wetland reserve which is attracting a number of wading bird species.

Our involvement was confined to the design of alterations and additions to an existing ammunition store blockhouse to provide warden facilities.

The site is exposed and remote, so weather tightness and security are important issues, leading to the ground floor (which may also be subject to flooding) being retained purely for storage, with all the accommodation in a new steel framed first floor structure with composite steel clad roof and timber clad walls. The surrounding balcony allows discreet surveillance of the bird population, and of any trespassers.