The award of £16,600 will allow the existing visitor centre to be completely refurbished with professionally designed displays, an observation window and radar and weather monitoring equipment.

The Visitor Centre - a Second World War generator building, adjacent to the Lookout – is a popular attraction for coastal walkers but is currently in a poor state of repair. With the aid of the generous HLF grant, the NCI will create a first class information centre for visitors and a valuable learning resource for schools and youth groups.

Through the new observation window to be inserted on the seaward side of the building visitors will be able to view shipping and wildlife from a telescope to be provided by the Friends of Prawle Point. A radar monitor will also be installed to provide information on passing ships and a weather station will display current weather data.

A large number of local organisations have agreed to assist by providing ideas and material for the displays to help raise awareness of the heritage of the area and the need to conserve it. They include the National Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust, Devon Birdwatchers, South Devon AONB, Brixham Seawatch, Salcombe Lifeboat, Start Point Lighthouse, SW Maritime Archaeological Group, SW Coast Path Association, Slapton Ley Field Studies Centre, and Salcombe Maritime Museum. In addition, a number of local schools have expressed support for the project and are proposing to take part in a programme of educational visits and guided walks. Chivelstone Parish Council is also backing the scheme.

Commenting on the award, Prawle Point Station Manager, Roger Barrett, said: "We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has enabled this work to take place. Although the safety of coast users is our top priority, we are always keen to welcome visitors to show them what we do and provide them with information about this magnificent section of coast. The re-vamped centre is sure to be a very popular attraction and a great learning resource for schools and youth groups."

HLF’s Head of Region for the South West, Nerys Watts, said: "We are particularly pleased to be able to support this project at Prawle Point which focuses so closely on the rich natural and maritime heritage that the South West region has in such abundance. The newly refurbished visitor centre will provide local people and visitors alike with a wonderful opportunity to understand the environment of this spectacular coastline and to ensure that it can be conserved for future generations to enjoy."

Notes to editors

The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) enables communities to celebrate, look after and learn more about our diverse heritage. From our great museums and historic buildings to local parks and beauty spots or recording and celebrating traditions, customs and history, HLF grants open up our nation’s heritage for everyone to enjoy. Since 1994 it has supported more than 26,000 projects, allocating over £4 billion across the UK.

Further information

Roger Barrett, NCI Prawle Point Station Manager on 01548 531167 or rogbarrett@aol.com.