Client: Homes and Communities Agency

PSCL carried out an operational options review to identify new products and activities to increase visitor numbers and to build awareness of Pooley Country Park and heritage centre. We also advised on the most appropriate management structure.

Located on the former Pooley Hall Colliery site, the heritage centre provides an insight into mining history and sustainable energy generation.

The 62.5 hectare site, one third of which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, contains several pools caused by mining subsidence, woodland habitats and is situated on the Coventry Canal. A new play area was opened in 2006, thanks to funding from Landfill Tax Credits, the Market Towns Initiative and the former Advantage West Midlands.

Power to the heritage centre is supplied from a “hybrid” system of wind and solar energy (backed up by the National Grid). A 6 kW Proven wind generator and 10 x 710 W photovoltaic panels provide much of the power needed to run the Centre. The toilets have a waterless system supplied by a Warwickshire company.

The country park and heritage centre has a strong education ethos with its nature and alternative energy themes but also aims to attract the family and events market. Given its proximity to local residential areas and the Coventry Canal the country park is also used for a range of outdoor health and fitness activities.

Photos kindly supplied by Warwickshire County Council.

How can we help?
If you have any questions about carrying out an operational review or preparing an income generation plan for a country park or other site or would like to discuss our work please don’t hesitate to call Richard Linington on 023 9248 1999 or email richard@pslplan.co.uk