Construction begins of new coastal observatory at Chapel Point

Discovery of wartime smoke bombs and historic sea defences delayed the laying of foundations.

However, council officials are on site this morning to officially celebrate the start of building.

The observatory will give nature lovers a new way to experience the stunning Lincolnshire coast and will form an impressive gateway to the Coastal Country Park.

It will include an art space, café and public toilets, and is expected to be completed in the autumn.

The project is funded by Lincolnshire County Council, the Coastal Communities Fund and Arts Council England.

Coun Colin Davie, Lincolnshire County Council’s executive member for Economic Development, said: “This new attraction will be something unique to Lincolnshire.

“The observatory will be the perfect spot for people to enjoy our spectacular coastline and its beautiful wildlife, and there will be plenty for the kids to do too.

“This is just one of a series of investments on the coast, which we are confident will help attract new visitors to the area.

“Combined with the nearby outdoor theatre space and the new visitor centre at Gibraltar Point, it will help extend the traditional tourist season, providing a significant boost to the economy.

“We had hoped to have it open for the summer, but the ground conditions were more difficult than thought, which has delayed things.

“There were also some unexpected discoveries such as the historic sea defences and a Second World War bomb that had to be dealt with.

“However, things are now back on track and we should have everything wrapped up in the autumn.

“I can’t wait to see it the finished.”

The Coastal Country Park aims to provide high-quality facilities for visitors and better protection for wildlife in the area between Sandilands and Chapel St Leonards. The initiative is led by Lincolnshire County Council.

Reasd more:

‘The bang was fierce’: Another bomb found at Chapel Point