Exciting developments are happening at Beechenhurst this winter!
We want everyone to enjoy a great day out at Beechenhurst and so we are working to improve accessibility for all.
If you are visiting Beechenhurst this winter, you will see construction works taking place around the site. We are currently working on several exciting projects which will make Beechenhurst a more inclusive place to visit.
What are you building?
- New trail - We are building a brand new, all-ability access trail which will be suitable for people visiting with wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility scooters. The trail will be relatively flat and wide with a hard surface and will include plenty of benches and rest stops along the way.
- Changing places toilet facility - We will be building a new unit which is being designed to be accessible for those with a range of disabilities. As well as a spacious toilet facility, it will also include a hoist, a shower, privacy screen and adult changing table.
- Mobility scooter hire - The new unit will also be the home of our new all-terrain mobility scooter which will be available to hire. This will be easy to use and able to tackle a range of surfaces and gradients in all kinds of weather. You do not have to be registered disabled to hire one.
When is this work taking place?
Works begin at the end of October 2024 where we will start removing a few trees to make space. Our contractors will be on-site from November, and will be working through to January. We expect the works to be complete by the end of January 2025, but we will share progress updates on our Facebook page.
Can I still visit Beechenhurst?
Yes, Beechenhurst will remain open to the public as normal. There may be times when there is a bit of noise, but no works will take place at weekends. We may need to temporarily divert sections of the Sculpture Trail, but we will share updates on our Facebook page and via on-site signage. Please make sure you follow any safety signage and directions by staff.
Who's paying for this?
This work is being paid for by Forestry England’s ‘Access for All’ programme, supported by funding from Defra. This funding has supported a range of projects across the country, all with the aim of improving the accessibility and inclusivity of our forests through investment in infrastructure.