By IW Observer.co.uk
An innovative project, designed to help nature recover, is being extended to the Isle of Wight, supported by funding from Southern Co-op.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) hope it can replicate on the Island the success of its ‘Wilder Portsmouth’ project. The ‘Wilder Wight’ project will enable wilder communities project officer, Kelly Wetherick, to work specifically for the Island. Kelly will support urban communities to create more space for wildlife. This could include greening community spaces or streets, improving areas for pollinators, bats, swifts and hedgehogs, or setting up groups to tackle problems such as litter and household pollution.
The project is initially focusing on Ventnor, Binstead, Freshwater, Pan and East Cowes.
Becky Fisher, from HIWWT, said: “Our relationship with Southern Co-op is long-standing and hugely important to us and we really are extremely grateful, not only for the funding they give us, but also their help and support.
“It’s because of the huge success of Wilder Portsmouth that we can now look to introduce Wilder communities elsewhere, including on the Isle of Wight.”
Gemma Lacey, of the Southern Co-op, said: “We have seen how small changes can join together to make a big difference in Portsmouth.
“The people at HIWWT are incredibly passionate about restoring wildlife. We are lucky to have them on our doorstep and we are excited to see what else can be achieved on the Isle of Wight.”
To find out how to get involved, please email wilder@hiwwt.org.uk.
Isle of Wight Observer