When decorators recently repainted the "Lookout Tower", that is part of the popular Heritage Centre and looks over the estuary of the River Taw, they discovered that the window frames were made of softwood, and that when they were last decorated the fresh single coat of paint had been put on over already flaking paint. As a consequence, water has got in and the windows are rotting, threatening the support of the buildings roof. Our project is to replace the windows with hardwood equivalents, to keep the look, and that these be properly treated / painted at installation.

What we'll deliver:

• Renew safe access to the Lookout Tower
• Ensure that the Lookout Tower is strengthened

Why it's a great idea:

The Heritage Centre is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. It is the top tourist spot on between Barnstaple and Bideford, in North Devon, and documents the historical workings at the Quay and on the railways that served it, as both are now no longer functioning. The Lookout Tower is a second storey room, accessed by winding stairs, where visitors can get an elevated view of the tidal River Taw estuary, and its wildlife. It is situated midway between the popular towns of Barnstaple and Bideford, and the original railway line route is now the "Tarka Trail" for walking and cycling. It is a well frequented site, as there is a good café also on the site, offering much needed refreshment to walkers, cyclists and motorised visitors alike. There are no fees charged for visiting the Heritage Centre, and it is managed by a team of volunteers. We have received grant funding for refurbishment of the Heritage Centre content, but this new requirement, has come out of the blue.

Steps to get it done: