The official opening today is taking place of RSPB Saltholme, the wildlife reserve and discovery park, on Teesside.

Tipped as being the best wildlife tourism site in North East England, the £7 million development is one of the biggest construction projects ever undertaken in the history of the RSPB. The site has been transformed from derelict brownfield into the RSPB's largest visitor, education and community centre.

Turner & Townsend were appointed as the Cost Consultant, working closely with local architects Jane Derbyshire & David Kendall Ltd and Construction Company Lumsden and Carroll Construction. Turner & Townsend provided full pre and post contract cost management services including cost planning and tender document preparation.

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Works commenced on site in July 2007 and were completed in December 2008, slightly longer than anticipated. The final account is being reviewed and subject to agreement, the project will have been completed within a revised budget. The centre opened their doors to the public on 21st January 2009 and today's 'official' opening, by Kate Humble, co-host of the BBC's Springwatch and Vice-President of the RSPB marks the beginning of an exciting time for Saltholme.

Commenting on Turner & Townsend’s involvement, David Gardner, Director, said: "We are delighted to have worked on this exciting new visitor attraction in the North East and we have thoroughly enjoyed working with the RSPB to deliver this word-class facility for the people of Teesside and North East England."

(JM)