WORK on a new £700,000 welcome centre at Upton Country Park has been completed.
Builders Greendale Construction Limited said it has completed the ‘iconic’ new centre, complete with bio-diverse living meadow roof and constructed using local Purbeck stone walling with laser-cut wording on dressed stone signage.

Located in the main car park, the Welcome Centre also boasts a powder-coated, aluminium metal cladding fascia, non-slip porcelain tiles and underfloor heating, partly fuelled by an air source heat pump.
Low energy LED lighting has been installed throughout the building, as well as three bug hotels and a number of swallow nest cups and bat boxes installed.
Inside, the development has new unisex toilet facilities, a baby area and accessible WC. The dog wash has been re-instated and a secure staff area and gift/display space formed.

Rob Hooker, director of Greendale Construction, said: “We were delighted to be awarded this project as main contractors, and are equally delighted and proud to have delivered this iconic Welcome Centre for BCP Council and Upton Country Park.
“The new Welcome Centre creates a real wow factor for visitors, and provides brilliant information and facilities for the users of the park.”
Councillor Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for environment and place at BCP Council, added: “The Discovery Project continues to deliver significant improvements across the park, benefiting our visitors, volunteers, and local schools.
“The opening of the Upton Country Park Welcome Centre is a significant milestone for the project, that has been made possible by funding from the The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund, BCP Council and the Friends of Upton Country Park.
“Visitors will now be able to learn more about the history of the estate, alongside the wonderful range of events, activities and wildlife that the park continues to support today.”