Mersey Valley River Trust Interpretation Lecterns
As part of the Stockport River Regeneration Project, DAB Graphics were commissioned by the Mersey Valley River Trust to design and manufacture a series of outdoor interpretation lecterns celebrating the wildlife and habitats of the Mersey Valley corridor.
The project focused on enhancing visitor engagement while supporting environmental awareness, using durable interpretation signage suited to a riverside setting.
The scheme included:
- Five A1 steel interpretation lecterns
- A series of habitat-focused interpretation panels
- Two specialist wildlife interpretation boards
All units were designed to provide accessible, informative content for visitors exploring the river environment.
The Brief
The interpretation signage needed to communicate the ecological value of the Mersey Valley in a clear, engaging and accessible way.
Key objectives included:
- Educating visitors about local wildlife and habitats
- Supporting wider environmental and conservation initiatives
- Delivering durable outdoor signage suitable for riverside conditions
- Providing a consistent and visually clear interpretation system
The signage also needed to complement the wider regeneration project, contributing to both visitor experience and environmental awareness.
Interpretation Content and Design
The lecterns featured a series of habitat interpretation panels designed to introduce visitors to the natural diversity of the area.
Topics included:
- Common Birds
- Wildfowl & Wader species
- Wildflower Meadow
- Pond life ecosystems
Together, these panels create a clear and accessible overview of the Mersey Valley’s ecological importance.
In addition to the general habitat content, two specialist interpretation boards were developed focusing on Sand Martin and Swift — species currently listed on the RSPB Amber List of Birds of Conservation Concern.
These panels highlight the challenges facing both species, particularly the loss of natural nesting sites due to river engineering, modern construction and habitat change.
Conservation Integration
A key aspect of the project was supporting real-world conservation efforts.
Sand Martins typically nest in steep sandy riverbanks, while Swifts rely on gaps in older buildings. Both species have experienced population decline due to habitat loss.
To address this, the project includes:
- Installation of swift towers
- Construction of artificial sand martin nesting banks
These structures replicate natural nesting conditions and provide safe breeding spaces, helping to support and stabilise local bird populations.
The interpretation panels play an important role in explaining these initiatives to the public, connecting visitors directly with ongoing conservation work.
Materials and Durability
All interpretation panels were produced using DAB Graphics’ Durapanel system, specifically developed for long-term outdoor use.
Key benefits include:
- High resistance to weather and environmental conditions
- Excellent colour retention and print durability
- Low maintenance requirements
- 10-year warranty for outdoor performance
The lecterns themselves were manufactured from galvanised steel, providing a robust and stable structure suitable for riverside environments and high visitor use.
Manufacture and Delivery
Once production was complete, all five A1 lecterns were fully assembled in our workshop to ensure quality and consistency.
The units were then:
- Carefully palletised
- Prepared for safe transport
- Delivered to the client for installation
This process ensures that all components arrive ready for efficient on-site installation.
The Result
The finished interpretation lecterns provide a durable, informative and visually engaging addition to the Stockport River Regeneration Project.
By combining clear design, high-quality materials and relevant ecological content, the signage enhances visitor understanding while supporting conservation messaging.
The project demonstrates how well-designed interpretation signage can contribute to both environmental education and public engagement in regeneration schemes.
Supporting Wildlife, Engaging Visitors
This project highlights the role of interpretive signage in connecting people with nature while supporting active conservation efforts.
Through durable materials, clear communication and thoughtful design, DAB Graphics delivered a signage solution that enhances both the landscape and the visitor experience along the Mersey Valley.