Waters’ Edge transformation moves forward with major heating investment

Visitors to Waters’ Edge can look forward to a warmer, more comfortable visitor centre – with local taxpayers set to save £100,000 over the next five years.

It comes alongside refreshed exhibitions and improved outdoor spaces as the much-loved Barton attraction continues its 20th anniversary transformation.

The latest phase of the makeover will see a new heating system installed, using natural heat from deep beneath the ground to keep the building comfortable throughout the year while reducing running costs.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Waters’ Edge is all about the natural environment, so it is absolutely right that the building itself reflects those values.

“This is about investing in a place that Barton residents value, making it better for visitors and saving money. By replacing technology which has been there for two decades with a modern system that uses the heat beneath our feet, we can avoid almost £100,000 in heating oil costs over the next five years.

“We said earlier this year that the 20th anniversary would mark the beginning of a new chapter for Waters’ Edge. This is another important part of that commitment – investing in the building, improving the experience for visitors and securing its future for many years to come.”

The latest phase of the centre’s 20th anniversary makeover is being supported by national funding, helping to reduce the cost to local taxpayers while delivering long-term savings.

The existing system uses around 17,000 litres of oil every year. Replacing it will eliminate the need to purchase heating oil, potentially avoiding almost £100,000 in fuel costs over five years.

The new system will use 12 boreholes, each approximately 100 metres deep, connected to a closed-loop ground-source system.

New radiators, pipework and a modern building management system will also be installed, giving greater control over energy use and helping maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout the centre.

Cllr Christine Patterson, cabinet member for healthy lives and places, said: “We are investing in Barton, from the bypass and improvements to roads and footpaths to making it easier and safer for people to get around the town.

“This investment at Waters’ Edge is another example of that commitment – improving the places residents value and making sure they remain fit for the future.

“For 20 years, Waters’ Edge has helped families get closer to nature and understand more about the incredible environment around the Humber – and have a nice cup of tea after walking their dogs.

“It comes alongside the other improvements already taking place at Waters’ Edge and is another important investment in one of Barton’s best-loved places.”

The renewable heating project forms part of the wider programme of improvements announced earlier this year to celebrate Waters’ Edge’s 20th anniversary.

That programme includes refreshed exhibition displays and renewed outdoor decking, alongside improvements designed to make the centre more comfortable, engaging and environmentally sustainable.

Work on the heating system is currently expected to begin in November, with completion scheduled for the end of April 2027. Temporary heating will be provided during the works to minimise disruption to visitors and other users of the building.