Keith Simpson MP for Broadland visited Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden today, to officially open the new floating viewing platform, overlooking the garden’s private broad.

The platform was designed and constructed by Fairhaven Gardener, Pete Taylor. It is 4m x 4.5m and sits on more than 40 double Aqua-Dock plastic floating modules. The platform cost £4,500 to build, funded by visitors’ gift aid donations. It is fully accessible and will soon have a new picnic table made from recycled plastic.

Louise Rout, Manager Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden said: “It was pleasure to welcome Mr Simpson and show him the garden at this lovely time of the year. Pete Taylor has built a wonderful platform, which I am sure will be thoroughly enjoyed by all who take in the view of the Broad. Thank you so much to our visitors’ for the gift aid donations, which have made the project possible.”

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is at South Walsham NR13 6DZ, half way between Norwich and Great Yarmouth, signposted off A47 at B1140 junction,www.fairhavengarden.co.uk, t. 01603 270449.

The garden is open daily from 10am to 5pm and on Wednesdays until 9pm from May to the end of August. Entry charge, adults £6.85, concessions £6.60, child (5-16) £3.95, under 5 free. Free entry to tearoom (opens 9.15am), gift shop and plant sales.

There is wheelchair access throughout the garden, including a Sensory Garden and an accessible boat for trips on the broad from April to October (additional charge). Visitors requiring special facilities are advised to telephone in advance, mobility scooters available.

Dogs are welcome on leads; small charge to cover poop scoop.