Project AZURE involves the acquisition and redevelopment of a dilapidated aquatics and garden centre situated adjacent to a unique wetland nature reserve, Fishlake Meadows, in the Test Valley in Romsey, Hampshire. The Site, which would otherwise be destined for traditional industrial development with no community benefit, provides a route of access to the wetlands and the Lower Test Valley.

The Site will be redeveloped to deliver the following:

1. A permanent gateway to the Reserve and the Lower Test Valley for current and future generations to enjoy.

2. A nature tourism destination based on the natural attractions of the Reserve and the Test Valley (i.e., birdwatching, cycling, walking, photography, and stargazing).

3. A 22,000sqft net zero carbon Nature Campus incorporating:

A. The UK’s first chalk stream visitor centre celebrating its unique ecology.

B. Flexible use education, training, and exhibition space for local schools and education institutions, corporate clients, and special interest groups.

C. Health and mental wellbeing space, including flexible-use studio.

D. Retail space for local businesses.

E. A casual dining facility and catered events space, serving freshly made and locally sourced products; and

F. High-quality and healthy private office space to create working environments within natural spaces.

The Project will provide both direct and consequential economic stimulus for the local economy, creating jobs on the Site, bringing income to the area as a nature tourism destination, supporting local business growth and acting as an educational beacon for net zero and nature studies.