Isle of Wight demonstration over future of Harbour Farm

On Sunday, February 4, more than 60 Harbour Farm Action Group (HFAG) members and people supportive of its cause gathered at the site on Embankment Road in Bembridge.

“Since buying the land ten years ago, the Environment Agency (EA) has let it go to wrack and ruin,” says the group.

“This has resulted in derelict and dangerous buildings and once beautiful gardens and orchards being overgrown with impenetrable brambles.”

The HFAG says it has been asking for public access to the farm and grounds for the last two years.

The group wants to see an accessible nature walk, with full disabled access, and bird hides for people to enjoy the wonderful variety of wildlife in the area.

The pinnacle of its ambition is to see a joint wildlife organisation visitor centre erected.

“It was only after a sustained campaign, including a petition now signed by more than 1,100 people and months of emails, complaints and letters asking to be heard, that the manager at last contacted the group on January 24, 2024,” said HFAG chair, Andrew Holman.

“Other concessions gained by the group include the removal of barbed wire from gates, details of the lease showing what land is rented to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) who manage the neighbouring Brading Marsh bird reserve, what is left under EA control, and when these agreements were signed and will run out.

“We have offered to construct and pay for the walk and bird hides ourselves through fundraising and the help that has already been offered by local people.

“The action group will continue to try to liaise and work productively with both agency workers and the RSPB.”

A spokesperson for the EA said: “We purchased Harbour Farm in 2014 to ensure the conservation and enhancement of Sites of Special Scientific Interest. 

“The land is leased to the RSPB, who recognise the importance of managing the site for the protection of bird species and wildlife.

 “The wetlands are of international importance, and therefore we have an obligation to maintain the wetland habitat and water levels.

“We increased water levels on the site to protect the wildlife.

“We have not made any firm decisions about the future of Harbour Farm. 

“When we get to the point of looking at potential options, we would be happy to discuss these with the local community.”