£750,000 cliffs visitor centre revealed

Around 80,000 people a year go to RSPB’s Bempton Cliffs nature reserve, which has the largest mainland seabird colony in the UK, but only 55,000 go into the visitor centre.

The plans would see the centre double in size, creating room for school parties, as well as a refurbished shop, refreshments kiosk and new toilets.

The proposals are going out to public consultation before a bid is put into the Heritage Lottery Fund for the bulk of the funding.

Keith Clarkson, RSPB east coast reserves manager, said they wanted to run more events, including seeing the gannets in the spring and autumn.

He said: “The popularity of Bempton Cliffs and those stunning seabirds has literally outgrown the visitor centre and worn out the car park and paths.

“There is such a rich cultural and historical heritage along the East Yorkshire coast and we want to encourage our visitors, especially the schools and families who visit, to discover the history and wildlife of Bempton Cliffs and Flamborough Head, particularly its seabird colony, as well as encouraging local people to be involved on the reserve.

“To do this successfully, we need to improve the facilities we offer.”

As well as creating four new jobs, the RSPB aims to establish a research programme.

There will also be new signs, trail boards and artwork to help visitors find out more about Bempton Cliffs, its wildlife and history.

Meetings will take place at Bempton Village Hall, starting next week, for anyone wanting to see the plans or ask questions.

The meetings are Wednesday January 23 from 5pm to 9pm, Saturday January 26 from 10am to 3pm and Tuesday February 12, from 10am to 4pm. If successful in securing funding, the three-year project should begin in 2014.