Green infrastructure development in Romsey

Who

ep group

Azure One Ltd

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

Where

SO51 0HB

What

A nature-based eco campus on the site of the former World of Water building in Romsey. Including a cafe, visitor centre and a place to view birds on the Fishlake Meadows Nature Reserve.

Why

This long-standing ambition for the former aquatic retail centre next to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Fishlake Meadows will improve the area for wildlife and offers opportunities for
those living, working or visiting Romsey and the Test Valley to enjoy and connect with nature. It will deliver an equal opportunity access to Fishlake Meadows and the Lower Test Valley for current and future generations.

How

Constructing a truly sustainable and biodiversity-embracing development that will enhance the visitor experience, boost tourism and create jobs.

The £10m scheme, submitted by Azure One Limited has been granted planning permission by Test Valley Borough Council. It will also offer retail space, flexible community space, and offices.

The development will be built to the highest “Building with Nature” accreditation standards,
which recognises the design and delivery of high-quality green infrastructure. The 21,463 sq. ft
buildings will follow Net Zero Carbon status standards and feature extensive use of locally
sourced materials. They are also designed to be naturally ventilated and illuminated with
minimal energy use. This approach, also known as biophilic design, ensures that the building
integrates seamlessly into the natural surroundings and creates a healthy environment.

The centrepiece of the scheme will be a 3-storey, timber bird-hide, reached via a 100-metre
raised walkway and bridges over Fishlake Stream from the visitor centre and into the watermeadows. The hide and relandscaped site will provide access for all and link the existing
pathways providing circular walks around the Fishlake reserve.

When

Due to start September 2021

More information

World-of-Water-Press-Release.pdf (epgroup.com)