The opening event of the Pop’s Nature Reserve in Bembridge was witnessed by a large crowd last Saturday (16th March). Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Phil Jordan and Chairman Claire Critchison officially opened the nature reserve – located off Love Lane – at an event held on-site. The land was bought at auction by resident Imogen Baden-Powell, the great-niece of Robert Baden-Powell who founded the Scouts, at an auction back in May 2023. Working with the local gardener and nature warden for the site, Phil Sard, trees have been planted and bug hotels, bird boxes and a hedgehog house have been installed to help wildlife thrive. The pair previously said that they were looking to stop ‘nature being ripped apart’, fearing that if they didn’t take it on developers would build houses instead. Speaking about the official opening, Phil Sard, has said:
“Both myself and Imogen Baden-Powell created the Reserve for community to find peace and enjoy the wildlife. “We are so grateful and honoured to be part of this.”
Why are IW Councillors taking a front facing role in this opening?(Election year no doubt.) Might it not have been better to have had those who fought long and hard to stop the original woodland being developed? Thanks have to go to those who purchased the plot but there were many who worked tirelessly to stop the mainland developer’s plans.
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Councillors should be dealing with other issues
like the crap overpriced ferry services.
50p toilet charges and extortionate 24/7 364 days a year parking fees.
I will never and would never vote for any of these useless B’stards
Election year or no election year!
Known Phil for some years now. Top bloke he’s really poured his heart into this project and I’m glad it’s paid off for him
Well done Phil, you have worked has as always.