We were commissioned to prepare proposals for the regeneration of New Park, the site of the annual New Forest Agricultural show. These proposals, which were submitted for detailed planning permission in July 2006, comprise the redevelopment of the original complex of farm buildings and the construction of new road access through and into the site. The centrepiece of the proposals is a contemporary green-oak framed interpretation centre, which will offer on-site education of the New Forest to the many thousands of young people that visit and stay at New Park each year.

The building will provide a multi-purpose venue for those that live and work in the Forest to exhibit and publicise a range of conservation issues. The centre will offer a real opportunity to raise awareness and appreciation of this unique natural environment.

Both the restored and new buildings will be constructed to sustainable design standards, with photo-voltaic cells, grey water recycling, and green roofs, integral to the design. Externally, a Landscape Interpretation Zone is to be created – a microcosm of the main typical natural environments found in the Forest. This will be managed by ecological and landscape specialists on an ongoing basis to ensure a living and evolving education resource is available for years to come to visitors, accessed by a circular boardwalk.