Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is pleased to announce the official opening of the newly refurbished Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre in Kimmeridge this bank holiday weekend. The project to upgrade the centre’s facilities is part of the Dorset Coastal Connections portfolio, and was made possible by funding from the Coastal Communities Fund.
The centre, which is next to the shoreline at Kimmeridge and near the iconic Clavell Tower, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Features include a new artificial rock pool, new information panels, an interactive virtual seabed, and a new shop. There is also now more space for engagement activities, from kids’ crafts, to using microscopes to watch marine minibeasts.
Natalie Poulter, Dorset Coastal Connections Project Co-ordinator said “It’s great to see our projects starting to come to fruition, particularly here at Kimmeridge where visitors have such an exciting opportunity to discover more about the ‘Wild Seas’ of Dorset and beyond. The newly finished Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre is a great place to come with all your questions about the Bay and what lives here, and to learn about the work being done to protect it not just for wildlife and wildlife enthusiasts, but for everyone.”
DWT Operations Director Brian Bleese said, “We are very grateful to the Coastal Communities Fund for their generous grant, and the continued support of the Smedmore Estate, which have allowed us to make these improvements to the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, taking marine conservation awareness forwards for the next 20 years. Marine-related topics, such as Marine Conversation Zones and the effects of marine litter on wildlife have been a huge focus both locally and nationally, and we look forward to welcoming people to the Wild Seas Centre for information, activities and events on these subjects. Our aim is to inspire and help educate visitors, so they can take an active role in helping to support local wildlife.”
DWT is also pleased to host its first art exhibition at the centre, in the new exhibition space as part of 2018 Art Weeks, launching on Saturday 26th May. Art displayed and available to buy will be inspired by nature in a variety of mediums.
Events at the centre* during the May half term week include a guided rockpool ramble on Wednesday 30th May from 2pm – 3.30pm, and an eco-crabbing event on Thursday 31st May, teaching adults and children how to catch and handle seashore crabs without harming them. See www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/events for more information.
The Fine Foundation Marine Centre is located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay, postcode BH20 5PE. Access to the bay is via a private road which there is a £5 toll charge for. For more information about visiting the centre phone 01929 481044 or visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/kimmeridge
