WWT reserves set to reopen across England

WWT has announced it is to re-open its wetland centres in England to the public from tomorrow [Wednesday 10 June]. 

Members of the public and WWT members will have to pre-book online for the day they want to visit as part of measures to keep everyone safe. The charity's wetland centres in Arundel (West Sussex), London, Martin Mere (Lancashire), Slimbridge (Gloucestershire), Washington (Tyne and Wear) and Welney (Norfolk) will open their doors to the public with social distancing and additional safety measures in place.

Some of WWT's flagship reserves, including Slimbridge and Martin Mere, will be open again to the public from Wednesday 10 June (Geoff Snowball).

In order to help protect visitors, staff and volunteers, daily numbers will be restricted and both WWT members and non-members are requested to book on digitickets beforehand. WWT's Chief Operating Officer Kevin Peberdy said: "We are delighted to be able to welcome people back to our wetlands after this extended period of lockdown.

"The lockdown has forced many of us onto the side lines while spring's great spectacle plays out, and what better way to catch up, than with a visit to our wetlands to see what nature's been up to. It's certainly been busy and our wetlands are teeming with wildlife.

"We've made a number of changes to help everyone stay safe. Most importantly, we're asking everyone to book online so that we can limit numbers and make sure there's plenty of space to enjoy the wetlands in peace and comfort."

In line with government guidelines, wetland centres' indoors areas and areas where people may gather will remain closed, this includes play areas, cafes and shops. All events, presentations, activities and talks are postponed until further notice.

WWT hopes to open its wetland centres in the devolved nations: Caerlaverock (Scotland), Castle Espie (Northern Ireland) and Llanelli (South Wales), once permitted.