Westonbirt Arboretum Visitor Centre

Speller Metcalfe was appointed by the Forestry Commission to deliver a new-build visitor centre which included an extensive value engineering process to ensure the works could be delivered within the client’s budget.

The single-storey, curved building was delivered to BREEAM Excellent, and incorporates a reception area, toilets, disabled wheelchair store, seminar room and staff area.

The unique design is timber framed and clad, with timber shingles on the roof reflecting the Forestry Commission’s approach to develop buildings that mirror their surroundings. Low flush toilets, waterless urinals and an airtight, thermally efficient internal structure also formed part of the energy efficient design.

The development was completed in multiple phases to minimise disruption and to enable the park to remain open throughout the project. We worked particularly closely with the Forestry Commission, helping to keep visitors informed of works through their blog and posts from our site manager, as well as adopting two trees within the arboretum and sponsorship of the opening ceremony.