Branstone Farm hosted the first 'Branstone Day' for Islanders and local businesses to explore the new sustainable development in the heart of the Arreton valley.
Following the investment of UK Government, Solent LEP and EU Interreg funding totalling £13.6 million, the site is getting ready to welcome its first occupants next month as part of the initial phase of 18 business 'barns'.
A number of new home owners are also preparing to move into the exciting Island development.
Last week, hundreds of people came together to enjoy talks, tours, walks and activities at the site that acts as a template for regeneration and sustainable development within the Isle of Wight biosphere.
Branstone Farm site model
Key to the development is affordable housing for Island people that will see 42 homes, thoughtfully designed to complement the natural setting of the semi-rural landscape.
They will be available through the government's ‘Help to Buy’ and shared ownership schemes sitting alongside rented properties that will be managed by Vectis Housing Association, the Island’s independently-run housing association.
Anchor businesses such as Goddards Brewery, Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce and creative agency, Brightbulb Design, are all early take ups of the business opportunity.
Images from Branstone Day
Central to the development is a new public green space that incorporates new woodland planted with native trees, extensive ponds to encourage wildlife and an outdoor education area to ‘connect people to planet’.
Martyn Pearl, chief executive at Vectis Housing Association, said:
“I am delighted to see this scheme come to fruition and commend the fantastic design of the site that is sympathetic to and enhances the characteristics of the Island, the biosphere and local community.
"Branstone Farm is the ‘jewel in the Vectis crown’ and has pushed boundaries in partnership working, sustainable development and creating a community-based legacy."
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