THE VISITOR centre, cafe and shop in Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve could close down.

Hampshire County Council says the move is a bid to save money.

Closing and selling Haven House visitor centre would raise money to support the reserve, provide a more financially-stable future and protect special habitats, the council says.

The county council is also suggesting improvements to paths, bird hides and boardwalks for visitors, and a new visitor entrance.

A survey on the plans is being held to seek the views of residents.

Cllr Russell Oppenheimer, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Countryside, Culture and Communities, said the site is "much valued" by the community.

He added: “We are extremely fortunate to have the support of a fantastic team of volunteers who support the site. The nature reserve is a nationally important asset which is home to many rare species including migratory wildfowl.

"However, there is a significant financial gap projected over the next three years in the running and repair costs for the Visitor Centre and Reserve. 

"The extremely sensitive environment of Titchfield Haven and its status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest within the coastal Special Protection Area, imposes a duty on the County Council to manage this coastal site to the highest standards so that its habitats and wildlife can continue to thrive.

“We wish to involve everyone with an interest in Titchfield Haven to help shape the future of the site, starting with a public survey which is now open.” 

The survey is open until November 1. It can be found, with a summary of the proposals, at www.hants.gov.uk/titchfield-future

The feedback collected from the survey will be considered by the Executive Member for Countryside, Culture & Communities with a final decision report on December 8.

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