Creating a New Viewing Screen at Kiln Lake

The new viewing screen at Kiln Lake has been constructed as a result of consultation with our visitors. During the Ure Connected project design phase, local residents and reserve users consistently told us that the lack of viewing opportunities over Kiln Lake limited their experience of this part of Nosterfield Nature Reserve.

There had been no proper vantage point overlooking the water, despite the lake supporting large numbers of wintering wildfowl and offering wide, open views across the reserve.

Plans were drawn up in early 2025, with construction beginning in the summer and completion in spring 2026.

The project has involved building a substantial timber screen, installing woven willow panels crafted from coppiced willow grown on site, laying gravel foundations and erecting new fencing. The finished structure provides an elevated, sheltered viewpoint and will be fully wheelchair accessible, with future plans to upgrade the approach path.

The build has not been straightforward. With no vehicle access to the site, approximately 20 tonnes of aggregate, large timbers, scaffold towers and cement mixers all had to be transported along a narrow footpath. Creative thinking and generous assistance from neighbouring landowners and Tarmac, who helped with machinery where possible, were vital in overcoming these logistical challenges.

Almost 500 volunteer hours have been invested in the project, led by our skilled volunteer construction team under the guidance of lead volunteer Martin Hutchinson.

Importantly, the screen will not only improve visitor experience but also benefit wildlife. Breeding Lapwing and Oystercatcher nest on nearby limestone areas, and previously some visitors would approach closer to gain a better view.

LUCT Volunteers weaving willow to make panels

The new screen provides a safer, more attractive alternative, helping to reduce disturbance during sensitive periods. It will also support increased recording of bird sightings, strengthening ecological monitoring.

As one volunteer reflected:

“The new viewing screen overlooking Kiln Lake will provide the first proper viewing point around this water body. It will provide excellent views of the wildlife and will act as an interesting stopping point along the lake footpath.”

The Kiln Lake viewing screen demonstrates how listening to community feedback, mobilising volunteer expertise and working collaboratively with partners can deliver practical, lasting improvements for both people and wildlife.

Targeted investment in the Kiln viewing screen through the Ure Connected project has helped to deliver wide‑ranging benefits. It enabled us to respond directly to community feedback, improve access for a broader range of visitors, protect sensitive wildlife areas and make the most of volunteer skills and local partnerships. The Kiln Lake viewing screen is already enhancing people’s experience of the reserve while supporting better ecological monitoring, and it will continue to provide long‑term value for both nature and the local community.