Adam Khan Architects were selected as winners of the competition

The buildings and open spaces form a village-like cluster, floating on a large pontoon. As well as giving unlimited flood protection, this brings the visitor into the magical territory amongst the reeds at the water’s edge. Combining distinctive regionally significant design with the need to be completely sensitive to the natural surroundings, it has been constructed using sustainable materials and techniques, particularly in the areas of natural resources, energy conservation and recycling.

The “visitor village” houses meeting and education facilities, as well as a shop promoting local produce, restaurant, and interpretation displays to help visitors understand and appreciate their surroundings.

The project has achieved a BREAAM ‘Outstanding’ rating.

Awards

• Chartered Institute of Building Services – Building of the Year 2011
• Civic Trust Special Award for Sustainability
• RIBA North West Building of the Year 2012
• RIBA Award for top 50 new buildings in the UK 2012
• RICS – North West Design and Innovation 2012
• RICS – North West Tourism and Leisure 2012
• RICS North West Awards Project of the Year 2012
• Wood Awards 2012
• VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme (VAQAS)
• 2013 Green Tourism Gold Award
• Lancashire Tourism Awards – 2014 ‘Large Visitor Attraction’ (shortlisted)