Plans to build a gravel extraction plant at Palmers Farm in Wootton have been quashed following the sale of the land to a nature conservation charity.
The James Tuttiett Charitable Trust (JTCT) has purchased the site, now known as Kings Quay, securing its future for conservation and habitat restoration.
A new future for Kings Quay
Founded in 2011 and led by entrepreneur and philanthropist James Tuttiett, the JTCT focuses on protecting and enhancing wildlife through habitat stewardship and community-led projects.
To date an endowment exceeding £5 million has been established and more than 150 donations have been made to support 80 charitable causes.
A spokesperson for the Trust said,
“This acquisition is a significant opportunity for the JTCT to make a considerable and lasting contribution to the provision of habitat restoration for the benefit of wildlife.”
The land sits between Fishbourne, Wootton, and East Cowes on the northern coast of the Isle of Wight. It remains one of the few undeveloped estuarine habitats in the region, spanning ancient woodlands, reedbeds, salt marshes, and mudflats.
A haven for wildlife
The area provides an important habitat for migratory birds, marine life, and rare flora such as early purple orchids. Its ecological value is recognised at a high level, attracting wading birds and other species to the unique landscape.
The Isle of Wight Natural Landscape recently described King’s Quay, the western boundary of the site, as “the last unspoilt inlet on The Solent.”
A rich and storied past
Kings Quay has a long history, with folklore suggesting that King John fled there after signing the Magna Carta. Other stories claim it was once a site for black-market trading, with goods looted by Isle of Wight pirates from French and Spanish ships.
Though no quay remains today, it is believed that the area once functioned as a small port. Historically, the land was part of the Barton Estate, which Queen Victoria purchased in 1845 as an addition to Osborne House.
Securing a protected landscape
With its new status under the JTCT, Kings Quay will be preserved for future generations, ensuring that its unique biodiversity and historic significance remain intact.
Wootton Bridge Councillor, Sarah Redrup, for a response .
“The preservation of Kings Quay represents a significant victory for our community and the natural environment we cherish.
“What could have become a gravel extraction site will instead remain a haven for wildlife and an unspoiled landscape that makes this part of the Isle of Wight so special. Residents of Wootton, who have waited years for an outcome to this, will be thankful to the James Tuttiett Charitable Trust for taking on the stewardship of the area.
“I would like to thank everyone who have raised their voices to protect this irreplaceable natural asset.”
OnTheWight has approached Wight Building Materials for their response to the news and will update once we hear back.
You can find out more about the Charitable Trust by visiting the website.
Article edit
6.20pm 18th Mar 2025 – SR comment added
