The Martin Mere Wetland Centre is about to reopen to the public but there are new rules for visitors.
Conservation charity Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust runs the Martin Mere beauty spot and says it is looking forward to welcoming back birders and day-tripping families alike.
The popular Lancashire nature reserve has announced it will be reopening on Wednesday June 10 with a new online booking system for wildlife fans.
Daily visitor numbers are currently being restricted and both members of the public and WWT members will only able to attend if they have pre-booked a slot.
Bookings open every Wednesday morning for the following week and you need to book before midnight the day before you want to visit.
The slots have already proven a hit, as availability for next week is low and spots on Saturday June 13 and Sunday June 14 are now sold out.
The booking system comes alongside a host of other measures to 'keep everyone safe' as the Burscough reserve reopens for the first time after the coronavirus lockdown came into force.
The
Wetland Centre website gives advice on what to expect, telling potential visitors:
- "If you have to queue to get in, you’ll be asked to keep two metres apart from the people in front. There will be screens up at the admission desk."
- "We’ve limited access to indoor areas. You won’t be able to go into our aviaries or flamingo houses. Some hides are closed completely because they’re just too small. Others are open for a set number of people. Where hides have more than one floor, we’re only opening the ground floor. And we’re keeping the doors and windows propped open so you don’t have to touch them."
- "Our play areas are closed for the moment, and we aren’t running activities such as pond-dipping, walks and talks."
- "Some paths are now one-way to help you keep a safe distance from other households. And we’ve closed some areas where people might naturally gather. Where possible, we’ve removed or propped open gates."
- "Toilets are available but please be aware that we’ve closed some because they’re simply too small. Please ask a member of staff on site if you need directions to the nearest facilities."
- "We’ve increased our cleaning regime, particularly our toilets. And we have plenty of hand sanitiser available around the site."
- "For now we’re not selling grain for you to feed the birds. Rest assured, we’re still feeding them though, so please don’t bring bread or any of your own food for them."
- "Unfortunately for the time being we can’t offer mobility scooters or wheelchairs for hire. You’re welcome to bring your own mobility scooter or wheelchair as usual."
- "Our shops and cafes are closed for now, but we hope to be able to offer takeaway food very soon. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drink and make use of our picnic areas. We’ve spaced the benches out to keep you safe."
WWT’s Chief Operating Officer Kevin Peberdy said: “We are delighted to be able to welcome people back to our wetlands after this extended period of lockdown.
“The lockdown has forced many of us onto the side lines while spring’s great spectacle plays out, and what better way to catch up, than with a visit to our wetlands to see what nature’s been up to. It’s certainly been busy - above water and under water, our wetlands are teeming with wildlife.
“We’ve made a number of changes to help everyone stay safe. Most importantly, we’re asking everyone to book online so that we can limit numbers and make sure there’s plenty of space to enjoy the wetlands in peace and comfort.”
Further information on the tickets available and advice for visiting the centre as lockdown measures ease can be found on the website.
