Funding Boost For Proposed International Biosphere Centre In Sandown
A proposed environmental education and research centre in Sandown has taken a step forward after securing £15,000 to develop a detailed business plan.
The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary has been awarded the funding by the Solent Growth Partnership for work on the proposed International Biosphere Centre.
The project could eventually transform around 140 hectares of land in and around Sandown into a centre for environmental education, conservation, research and sustainable tourism.
Plans include accommodation for field studies, marine laboratory facilities, teaching and conference spaces, university-accredited courses, tourist lodges and a centre focused on native species and habitat restoration.
The new funding will be used to examine demand for the project, potential operating costs, revenue opportunities and its long-term viability.
The Isle of Wight Council has supported the project and says it fits with wider regeneration plans for Sandown and the Bay area.
Some of the land being considered is owned by the council behind the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, alongside neighbouring land managed by the RSPB.
However, any development would still require further studies, approvals and funding.
The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary says the business plan will help provide the evidence needed to attract future investment and take the project forward.
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