The Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub, located at Durley Chine on the stunning Dorset coastline, is a shining example of sustainable architecture and environmental stewardship. This Passivhaus-certified building, constructed with reclaimed materials and designed to be Net Zero in operation, is a beacon of innovation and a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the region.
The Eco-Friendly Design of the Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub
The Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub is a true marvel of sustainable design. Crafted with a highly insulated timber frame, the building’s structure is a testament to the power of reclaimed materials. Key features of this innovative hub include:
- Reclaimed Groyne Timbers: The building’s frame is constructed using reclaimed timber from the seafront’s old groynes, giving new life to these essential coastal structures.
- Living Roof Canopy: The hub’s roof is adorned with a lush canopy of native plants, providing a haven for local wildlife and contributing to the building’s overall energy efficiency.
- Decking from Decommissioned Submarine Base: The hub’s decking is made from timber reclaimed from a decommissioned German naval shipyard, adding a unique touch to the structure.
- Newspaper Insulation: The building’s insulation is made from recycled newspaper, further reducing its environmental impact.
- Sand and Aggregate Kiosk: The on-site kiosk is constructed entirely from locally sourced sand and aggregate, inspired by the local geology of the cliff and using cement substitute throughout the structure.
Waste Management and Sustainability Initiatives
The Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub plays a crucial role in managing the 2,000 tons of waste removed from Bournemouth’s beaches every year. By reusing and recycling materials, the hub is setting a new standard for coastal waste management:
- Timber Recycling: The hub has reused 45 tons of timber recycled from the seafront’s old groynes and seven tonnes of timber reclaimed from a German naval shipyard.
- Passivhaus Certification: The main building is built to Passivhaus standards, ensuring it is highly energy-efficient and minimizes its environmental footprint.
- Plastic-Free Kiosk: The on-site kiosk is committed to not selling any products wrapped in single-use plastic, and instead uses returnable cups for hot and cold drinks.
Educational Opportunities and Community Engagement
The Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub is more than just a sustainable building; it’s a hub for education and community engagement. The long-term goal is to develop the venue into a space where residents, visitors, schools, and families can learn about environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting the coastline.
Funding and Future Developments
The Durley Chine Environmental Innovation Hub, as it is officially known, was funded by the Coastal Communities Fund. The council spends £1 million a year keeping Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole’s beaches clean, and the hub is a crucial part of their efforts to create a low-impact tourist destination and prevent single-use plastic waste.
In the future, the hub may be officially named and continue to evolve as a hub for environmental education and community engagement, further solidifying its role as a sustainable oasis on the Dorset coast.
Conclusion
The Bournemouth Beach Eco Hub is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship. From its innovative design to its waste management initiatives and educational opportunities, this hub is a beacon of hope for coastal communities around the world. As visitors and residents alike explore this remarkable facility, they will be inspired to take action and become guardians of the natural wonders that make the Dorset coast so special.
References:
– Durley Chine Environmental Innovation Hub – Footprint Architects
– Environmental hub kiosk opens – BCP Council
– Council eco hub took in £144k during its first year – Bournemouth Echo
– Durley Environmental Hub – BCP Council
– Durley Chine – BCP Seafront Projects