Titchfield Haven: Campaigners fight to save visitor facilities

More than 10,000 objectors have signed a petition launched by Hill Head Residents' Association - and signs condemning the proposed sale have been placed outside homes in the area.

But Hampshire County Council says it is facing "unprecedented budgetary pressures" and needs to address a projected £1.8m funding gap at the huge reserve.

A kestrel at Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve. Picture: Daily Echo Camera Club member Paul Willis (Image: Paul Willis)

If the scheme goes ahead the authority will dispose of the visitor centre and a listed building that is not open to the public.

Pamela Charlwood, co-chairman of the association, said the council hoped the proceeds would cover the cost of running the reserve.

But she added: "Residents argue that any income from a sale would be finite and would not offer a long-term solution to ensure the survival of Titchfield Haven.

"Moreover, they are angered that the proposals ignore the vital role the visitor centre plays in the community."

READ MORE: Plan to close visitor centre at nationally renowned nature reserve in Hampshire

Ms Charlwood said the centre played an important role in the community by boosting the well-being of the 85,000 visitors who went there each year.

She added: “It’s used daily by people from the local community and beyond, from elderly people living alone who visit to find company, to young families that come for an affordable lunch and to feed the birds.

"Hikers, birdwatchers, water sports enthusiasts and many others also flock to the area.”

"The centre offers scope for so much more activity to maximise income and develop its role as a central hub for the nature reserve and local community. To ignore these options would be short-sighted in the extreme.”

A consultation document describes the existing buildings as "ageing" and says they would cost too much money to maintain.

It adds: "The proposed changes mean fewer paid roles would be needed, specifically those related to the running of the café, shop, and visitor centre."

READ MORE: Rare birds breed at Titchfield reserve for first time in 45 years

A county council spokesperson cited the importance of funding the protection of important wildlife habitats.

They added: "A public survey on the proposals has now closed and we would like to thank everyone who took part. The submissions will be fully considered by the executive member for countryside."

A decision is due to be taken on December 8.

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