The James Tuttiett Charitable Trust has announced the purchase of King’s Quay – an important, untouched quay on the outskirts of Wootton – and the adjoining Palmers Farm, with a declaration that there will be no gravel extraction taking place.
The land totals 222 acres and includes an area which was previously being considered for gravel extraction by Wight Building Materials.
This news will particularly be welcomed by local residents as the whole area will be protected as a nature reserve and plans to strengthen and restore natural habitats have been unveiled as part of a collaboration between JTCT and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT).
In partnership with the HIWWT, the JTCT looks forward to 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.
King’s Quay sits midway between Wootton and East Cowes on the northern coast of the Isle of Wight. It’s unique in that it’s one of the very few undeveloped estuarian habitats on the Island and was recently described by the IOW Natural Landscape as ‘the last unspoilt inlet on The Solent’.
In September 2022, Island Echo reported on the history of the site as part of the ‘Secret Isle of Wight’ heritage series.
Ecologically the site is of importance due to the huge diversity of habitats including freshwater swamps, reedbeds, salt marshes and mud flats. These areas provide vital sites for wintering rare bird species and is of national importance due to the presence of Osbourne Beds, exposed shoreline beds in which abundant fossil fish remains can be found.
The land also includes areas of ancient woodland, which is rich in important plants such as butchers broom and early purple orchids, together with the narrow leaved lungwort which is common in ancient woodland on the shores of the Solent.
Announcing the purchase of the land, James Tuttiett of the JTCT has 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 the Hampshire and 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.”
A spokesperson from HIWWT has said:
“King’s Quay is a rare and precious haven for wildlife, and we are proud to be working with the James Tuttiett Charitable Trust on this conservation opportunity. Protecting and restoring key ecosystems such as this is a core part of our WILDER 2030 vision, for a richer, more biodiverse future for Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and beyond.”
I just hope they allow public access to the area and don’t selfishly keep it all private with keep out signs everywhere.