Heysham nature reserve implements new car park opening hours

Monday, 7 October 2024 at 13:04

The car park at Heysham Nature Reserve is now opening with revised hours.

EDF and Lancashire Wildlife Trust say the changes are being implemented to better manage access, protect the reserve’s wildlife, and ensure visitor safety.

Effective immediately, the car park will be open all year round from 7am, closing at 7pm between April and October, and at 4pm between November and March.

This change is in response to a number of recent antisocial activities in and around the nature reserve car park, including some incidents of overnight camping.

EDF and LWT have since established a system for securing the car park at night and are pleased to be able to resume normal access to the car park during the day, subject to these new opening hours.

Temporary signage in the area indicates the new opening hours, with more permanent signage to follow.

These new opening hours align with natural light conditions and will give visitors plenty of time to explore the reserve in daylight.

Outside of the stated times, the car park gates will be locked without further notice and not re-opened until the following morning, so parking is at visitors’ own risk.

A spokesperson from EDF, which owns the land said: “We recognise that this is a significant change to the previous 24/7 access, but both EDF and LWT are committed to balancing public enjoyment and safety with the protection of the unique environment at the reserve.”

“We understand how much the local community values access to the area, but this is a necessary step to help us better manage the reserve’s conservation efforts, while still offering a great experience for visitors during the most suitable times of day.”

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