The construction site of the forest adventure centre next to the Waldhaus Wildlife Park in Mehlmeisel has shown significant progress. Following the completion of the carpentry work, roofing, and window installation, the topping-out ceremony was celebrated just over a year after the groundbreaking. Construction Minister Christian Bernreiter and State Secretary for Home Affairs Martin Schöffel welcomed tradespeople, planners, and representatives from politics and society to the event.
The centre, which is forecast to open in mid-next year, is designed as a timber construction. It features large window fronts, a loggia, and staircases that open up to the surrounding forest. This design aims to make the forest and nature accessible to visitors. The Free State of Bavaria's investment amounts to approximately EUR 7.4 million, which will flow into forest pedagogy and the regional development of the Fichtelgebirge.
Architecture and Sustainability Concept
The building concept is divided into two areas, splitting like a fork in a branch: a public exhibition area and a non-public administrative area. On the west side, ground-level access is provided via a foyer, while the building sections rise to the east over the gently sloping terrain, offering views into the treetops. The immediate proximity to the Waldhaus Mehlmeisel Wildlife Park is intended to create synergies and consolidate the offering for visitors.
Construction Minister Bernreiter highlighted the nature-friendly and sustainable construction method. Wood, as a renewable raw material, is used extensively in the facade and many interior surfaces. A significant part of the building is elevated to minimise ground sealing. The building is designed to achieve the EH 40 efficiency standard, supported by effective thermal insulation, a wood pellet heating system, and photovoltaic systems on the roofs. Accessibility is guaranteed throughout. The State Building Authority Bayreuth is realising an exemplary building with this project.
State Secretary for Home Affairs Martin Schöffel emphasised the importance of the forest adventure centre as a place for experiencing nature and environmental education. The centre aims to teach visitors of all ages about the relevance of the forest to the ecosystem and the importance of sustainable forestry. Forestry Minister Michaela Kaniber underscored that the modern timber construction of the centre promotes regional value creation and future-oriented building with wood as a local raw material. The facility at Mehlmeisel Wildlife Park is set to become a central location for environmental education in Bavaria.
