Work at the former education centre at Branstone Farm, Apse Heath, is going well.
The Isle of Wight Council and Island businesses have joined together, using funds from the government, the Solent LEP and private partners, to create a new £13.6 million scheme which includes affordable housing, an outdoor education area, new green space, a rural business park, and a new brewery and visitor centre.
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Isle of Wight councillors took the opportunity to visit the site and see how the construction is progressing.
Peacey Wilcox: A key part of delivering the recovery our residents deserve
Lora Peacey Wilcox, (pictured centre at top) leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said,
“The Branstone Farm development is a good example of working to support nature and sustainability.
“This is an important theme to all this work, and our partners at Vectis Housing and Homes England have been very supportive in making sure this is an appropriate development in this countryside location.
“With our Island partners and contractors we are creating a rural resource that will be a key part of delivering the recovery which our residents deserve.
“Regeneration means a better chance of jobs, housing and prosperity for the Isle of Wight – and we can show that our regeneration strategy is delivering real results at Branstone.”
Chamber of Commerce will be relocating to Branstone Farm
Julie Jones-Evans, (pictured right at top) councillor for regeneration, said,
“I was impressed to see the foundations going in for the new business park we are building on the site of the old farm buildings.
“This business park will be a state-of-the-art rural business centre of around 14,000 ft², which will provide employment for local people by offering much-needed working space for new and growing Island firms.
“This new project will strengthen our partnership with The Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, which will be relocating to Branstone Farm once the business park is complete and will be leading on the letting and management of the units.
“We’re also going to house the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty team here, which makes sense, given their championing of our biosphere status.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
