Conservation charity WWT has announced it is to re-open its London Wetland Centre on Wednesday, June 10.
Members of the public and WWT members will have to pre-book online for the day they want to visit as part of measures to keep everyone safe.
The charity’s wetland reserve in Barnes celebrated its 20th anniversary this month during lockdown.
WWT’s priority is to ensure the public can access its beautiful waterscapes to help boost wellbeing and people’s connection with nature in the area.
In order to help protect visitors, staff and volunteers, daily numbers will be restricted and both WWT members and non-members are requested to book on digitickets beforehand so that the charity can monitor numbers. Social distancing and additional safety measures will be in place.
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 sidelines 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 underwater, 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.”
In line with government guidelines, London Wetland Centre’s indoors areas and areas where people may gather will remain closed, this includes play areas, cafes and shops.
All events, presentations, activities and talks are postponed until further notice.
The charity’s wetland centres in Arundel (West Sussex), Martin Mere (Lancashire), Slimbridge (Gloucestershire), Washington (Tyne and Wear) and Welney (Norfolk) will also open their doors to the public on June 10.
WWT hopes to open its wetland centres in the devolved nations: Caerlaverock (Scotland), Castle Espie (Northern Ireland) and Llanelli (South Wales), once permitted.
Please visit your London Wetland Centre’s website page for further information or click wwt.org.uk/visit.
