Completing the new hospital in 2010 was a dream come true for everyone who has been involved in HART, throughout our history.
However, we need to build further to be able to treat large mammals, such as badgers and deer, and to have dedicated rehabilitation facilities for birds of prey and water birds. Plans have been drawn up for two buildings plus aviaries, and have received planning approval. These facilities will mean we are able to treat all species onsite, whereas at present we have to transfer these larger mammals long distances to other hard pressed wildlife rescues. The additional facilities will also give us additional space to admit a greater number of animals, something that the last few months admissions show will desperately be needed in the future.
The plans include two new buildings, one for large mammals such as deer, foxes and badgers, and one for water birds and birds of prey, with separate aviaries around the field and a pond to encourage wildlife. The new developements will also be used as an education facility for schools, colleges and the local communities. We hope to commence work in early summer.
In order to achieve this, we have set up the Help Us Grow Campaign so help us raise the £50,000 needed. There are many ways to get involved, anything from just telling as many friends as possible, to donating funds, getting involved in fundraising, or indeed donate your time towards the work in the field, please get in touch. Click here if you would like to make a donation and here if you would like to join our cause and spread the word!
Work has now begun on the plans, with the pond to be seen in the lower left hand corner of the plans above. Throughout October, Bob Gibbs and volunteers, with the kind support of Neil Murkitt from Water Scenes, have been working away to build our wildlife pond. The landlords kindly helped us dig the hole, then Neil came to visit, shovelled a lot of sand, worked his magic and turned it into a pond, using a lining and plants he donated. We are very grateful to him for his hard work, donation of materials and expertise. Please visit his website if you are thinking of getting a pond yourself!
