ESPLANADE ZONE

14. North Walk and the Canoe Lake. The lake and its margins are designated as a Site of Importance for nature Conservation (SINC C214A). There is an opportunity here to emphasise the relict dune ecology and manage the sandy slopes to reduce invasive plant cover and restore a coastal flora. The lake also provides a winter refuge for wildfowl, with a feral population present the year round. By actively managing the site as an urban nature reserve, interpreting its wildlife value, providing information on what to look for and when, increasing and improving coastal habitats and reviving degraded areas, it is possible to combine recreational and conservation functions and to connect this work with the wider narrative of Biosphere that is exemplified by Ryde.

15. Appley Tower. Work is being undertaken by Natural Enterprise, with support from the Coastal Revival Fund, to assess options for sustainable redevelopment of this Grade II listed building. The potential for its use as a tourism venue, café, bar and restaurant is being developed in more detail. There are important opportunities to incorporate the building’s ‘observatory’ appeal also, looking out onto the protected habitats of Ryde Sands, backed by the Repton landscape of Appley Park, a perfect Biosphere combination.