By Isle of Wight Observer
Campaigners are celebrating after Wootton Bridge Parish Council received a letter confirming that Palmers Farm, which Wight Building Materials hoped to use for gravel extraction, has been purchased by the James Tuttiett Charitable Trust (JTCT).
A letter received this week confirmed the purchase of the 222 acres, of which 65 acres were to be used for gravel extraction. It explains the JTCT’s works with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to protect and enhance wildlife and that no gravel extraction will now take place. It goes on to say: “It is intended that the whole of the farm will be renamed Kings Quay Nature Reserve and we will work towards restoring the natural capital at King’s Quay by increasing biodiversity and protecting wildlife, so this unique piece of land becomes a haven space for nature in perpetuity.” The site will not routinely be opened to the public as it is to be a sanctuary site, although opportunities will be available for volunteering and educational visits.
The site includes a variety of habitats including ancient woodlands, reedbeds, salt marshes and mudflats. It supports a wide array of wildlife, from migratory birds to early purple orchids.
A spokesman for campaign group WAGE (Wootton, Whippingham and Arreton Against Gravel Extraction) welcomed the news. He said: “We have campaigned long and hard to protect the site, the surrounding area and all the people who would be adversely affected should gravel extraction go ahead.” He added that they are seeking clarification of “certain details” and that they would continue until the planning application is either withdrawn or refused.
It is understood that this includes full details of the purchased land, including who will own the mineral rights.
The JTCT was set up in 2011 and has endowments totalling more than £5 million and had made 150 donations to 80 charities. It has two trustees, James and Amelia Tuttiett. James has a property empire which appears to be largely based on rental income from owning the freehold to around 40,000 leasehold properties across the UK, which has attracted some controversy and negative press over the years. Amelia is a ceramicist.
James Tuttiett said: “King’s Quay is a truly special place, and we are honoured to be playing a role in preserving its unique natural beauty and ecological importance. By partnering with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, we can ensure this vital habitat thrives for many generations to come, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a legacy of conservation.”
The letter to the parish council mentions the charity’s website, which says its mission is to “protect and enhance the UK’s wildlife and habitats alongside supporting Hampshire community led projects”.
However, the Charities Commission says the activities of the charity can be used for any charitable purpose “as the trustees in their absolute discretion think fit.” It may explain why WAGE are seeking greater disclosure of future plans.
A spokesman for Wight Building Materials said they had known for some time about the possible sale. He added: “Having reviewed our alternative leasehold and freehold mineral deposits in that time, we are confident in our ability to continue to offer the very best services and products to the Island’s construction industry.
“Having spent several years working on a plan for a new truly sustainable quarry that would have contributed much to the Island’s ability to source its own sand and gravel for many years to come, this news is however clearly a disappointment.
“We have previously worked closely with the Hampshire and IW Wildlife Trust on restoration and conservation projects and we wish them all the best in their new venture.”
