NEW WETLANDS CENTRE OPENS

A striking new environmental education and visitor centre at Newport Wetlands nature reserve has now opened its doors. The brand new centre sits on the edge of the Newport Wetlands reserve nestled among reeds and pools, which will soon become inhabited by the local birdlife. The £3 million centre houses a shop and café for visitors to relax in, an education room for schools, activities and events, as well as conference facilities for local businesses and community groups. Seventeen new jobs have also been created at the centre. Kate Humble, broadcaster and naturalist helped to officially open the centre to the public. She said: 'In the middle of urban south Wales lies this incredible area for wildlife, which visitors can enjoy to the full now that the RSPB's new environmental education and visitor centre has opened its doors. You can be in amongst the most beautiful scenery within minutes of leaving Newport city centre." Mayor of Newport, Councillor Allan Morris said:
‘The new visitor centre is a real asset to Newport and provides a welcoming urban gateway for visitors to explore the natural World. here is such a wealth of important habitats and wildlife here at the wetlands, and the centre will play a vital role in informing and enthusing new generations, and engendering a lasting sense of pride in their surroundings.’