Walton set for million pound visitor centre at the Naze (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Walton set for million pound visitor centre at the Naze

9:00am Thursday 24th January 2013 in News

PLANS have been unveiled for a million pound visitor centre showcasing Walton Naze.

The centre would be built at the top of the cliffs near Naze Tower in a bid to boost facilities and get more visitors to the area.

It is the second step in the Essex Wildlife Trust’s Naze Heritage Project, following the construction of the Crag Walk sea defence.

Designs for the visitor centre include an observation room with views across the coastal landscape.

There will also be an education room and an interpretation zone for people to learn about the geological, biological and cultural significance of the area.

The centre will cost about £1million to build.

Essex Wildlife Trust is currently trying to secure the funding for the project and has a bid in with the Big Lottery Fund.

The Naze Protection Society has been working with the wildlife trust and other organisations on the scheme.

Society chairman David Gager said: “This will be wonderful for the public and for the future of our Naze.

“We know that there is a huge demand for information from people who visit the Naze, and this will give us a chance to provide that.

“I think it will be a great asset to Walton.”

The plans will be on display on Thursday January 24 for members of the public to give their views on them.

They will be exhibited at Walton Library from 9.30am-1pm, and at Walton Community Project 1.30pm-4pm.

They will also be shown at the project office on Friday, 10am-4pm.

A planning application is set to be submitted later this year.