Project Timeline

We had a chance meeting with Paul McVittie from Heritage 18 based at Carlisle Castle. Paul runs a local CIC that uses architectural and design skills to retain, protect and develop ex-military buildings for public use.

We were impressed by Paul’s portfolio, and he was keen to work with us. As a first step, he is mapping and drawing the existing building and landscape in 3D. These base drawings will allow us to develop and visualise new ideas, and they will form the basis of our second round of consultation, where we’ll share early concepts and gather your feedback to refine them.

The survey results show strong support for protecting the Watchtower for future generations. You’ve also told us that any renovations should be carried out sympathetically, respecting both the building’s history and the natural environment around it. Most respondents supported developing the building for history interpretation and wildlife watching, alongside habitat creation and protection in the surrounding area. We also noted that people are more likely to donate when we share clearer plans for how the Watchtower will be used.

A full report is available below

On 28 January, Watchtree staff and volunteers visited the newly purchased land together for the very first time. It was a special opportunity to explore the site, step inside the building, and take in the habitats already established across the land. The visit marked an exciting moment in welcoming this area into the Watchtree family and beginning to imagine its future as part of the nature reserve.