Plans have been submitted for a new environmentally-friendly visitor and education centre at Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve near Bournemouth, Dorset.
The proposed £1m facility is to incorporate an exhibition area for archaeology, ecology and geology; a space for learning and community use; and outdoor learning areas.
Work space for centre staff and volunteers; access for disabled visitors; and a retail outlet similar to a National Trust shop are also mooted as part of the scheme, while Barn Cottage is to be extended.
Developer contributions will provide £300,000 towards the cost of the development, while a second-round application for Heritage Lottery Fund support will be submitted in February.
Stuart Clarke, countryside policy officer at Bournemouth Borough Council, said: "We have been proactive in ensuring that the community has been involved in the development of the visitor centre plans.
"The feedback we have received has consistently identified the conversion of the existing thatched barn as the most appropriate location for the visitor/interpretation centre."
Local residents have until 3 December to comment on the visitor centre plans.
