Description
The first Visitors Centre was opened in the 1980’s and now we have constructed an up to date, state of the art new Visitors Centre.
The brief for the new visitors information and community resources centre was it had to be built combining all the latest principles of sustainable design in a low energy building, using power from the on-site hydro-electric scheme.
The building is combined steel and timber framed clad in western red cedar with warm cell insulation to both the walls and the roof. The roof material is an uginox stainless covering which gives the impression of a lead roof. There is also a sedum roof over the Resource Centre. Welsh slate has been used for the floor of the Shop area and an unusual feature has been created to the Main Entrance using stacked glass emulating the appearance of running water.
The heating for the building is via a dimplex air to water heat pump which draws the majority of the energy needed by the under floor heating system from the ambient air. Power to the pump is supplied by the on-site hydro-electric water turbine.
Natural stonework has been used for the external façade, boundary walls and paving. A disabled passenger lift has been installed for access to the Visitors Centre with meandering paths to the attractions. It is hoped in the future that the hydro-electric turbine will provide enough electricity to power the complete site.
Architect Contact: Mr Michael Davies Davies Sutton Architects Penhevad Studios Penhevad Street Grangetown Cardiff CF11 7LU