The future of an award-winning visitor centre is looking bright after a new operator was appointed to take it over.
Last summer, Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) made the “difficult decision” to terminate its lease at Romney Marsh Visitor Centre due to rising costs and falling visitor numbers.
It has been closed ever since, but now, owner Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) has revealed it will reopen as a cafe, shop and community space.
It is being rebranded as The Nest and will be run by Dymchurch resident Nicola Adam, who plans to reopen the centre on Saturday, August 2.
Nicola said: “This brand-new space will provide a destination for visitors to the Marsh as well as a place for local people to come together.
“From crochet and craft clubs, gardening, pilates and parent meetups – The Nest will also support local school children in their learning journey.”
The visitor centre can be found off Dymchurch Road, between New Romney and St Mary’s Bay, and the nearby nature reserve, Romney Warren, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The nature reserve has remained open, managed by the Romney Marsh Countryside Partnership with support from FHDC.
The popular Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway previously stopped at Romney Warren, but this was paused following the closure of the visitor centre.
But with it due to reopen, trains will once again stop for special events and on certain days of the year.
A spokesman for the railway said: “We are keen to work with the centre going forward as it is important that tourism venues work together in enticing visitors to the Romney Marsh.”
Previously, FHDC consulted with residents, visitors and businesses about how the centre should evolve to meet the needs of the community, enhance the wider nature reserve experience and support the district’s economy.
Cllr Jeremy Speakman, who has overseen the project, said: “We’re thrilled the site has had its future secured after a detailed process, which included invaluable feedback from stakeholders and residents.
“The nature reserve remains one of the gems on the Romney Marsh – and with a dose of something new – we’re excited to introduce this new chapter.”
