The Isle of Wight could become home to the International School of Rewilding (ISR)—a pioneering environmental education and research centre aimed at restoring nature, building local skills, and boosting the Island’s green economy.
Situated within the UNESCO-designated Isle of Wight Biosphere, the ISR will transform 140 hectares of underutilised land in Sandown into a vibrant hub for ecological innovation.
Plans include rewilding wetland areas with species such as the European elk, creating state-of-the-art marine labs and learning facilities, and establishing new pathways from local education to green industry jobs.
Key features:
- Research and study in rewilding, marine science, and regenerative land management
- Year-round student accommodation and visitor facilities
- Partnerships with universities, local businesses, and environmental organisations
- A community-focused approach to economic and ecological regeneration
The project is backed by stakeholders including the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Artecology, RSPB, Natural England, and is in discussion with Sandown Town Council and others aiming to be operational within five years.
“Once-in-a-generation opportunity”
The project leaders said,
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to place Sandown, The Bay, and the Isle of Wight at the heart of global environmental recovery.”
The ISR will operate as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving public access while advancing sustainable development, innovation and research investment and year-round tourism facilities and attractions.
News shared by Pading on behalf of Building the Bay. Ed
