Test Valley Farmers Gather for ‘Growing the Future’ Screening Event
Farmers, local leaders, and sustainability advocates came together at Gambledown Farm in Romsey for a special screening event showcasing the results of a pioneering Net Zero pilot demonstrator project.
Launched in July 2024, the project received nearly £25,000 from Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) using money from the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The funding was awarded to two local farms - Michelmersh Manor Farm and Goddards Farm - to trial innovative farming techniques aimed at reducing environmental impact and progressing towards Net Zero.
The event was attended by TVBC councillors Nick Lodge and David Drew, alongside local farmers, parish councillors, and key collaborators. Hosted by Tim Brock, farming consultant at IncuHive, the event featured the premiere of ‘Growing the Future’, a documentary capturing the journey, challenges, and successes of the participating farms.
Attendees had the opportunity to:
- watch the film and see real results from local farms
- learn about practical, sustainable farming techniques
- connect with fellow farmers, industry experts, and policymakers
Cllr Phil North, Leader of TVBC, highlighted the significance of these trials in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture in Test Valley: “We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved through this project. The insights gained from these farms will not only benefit the local farming community but also contribute to broader efforts in sustainable land management.”
The screening event served as a platform to discuss next steps in scaling sustainable practices across the region, reinforcing Test Valley’s commitment to environmental responsibility and agricultural innovation.
Reflecting on the success of the project, George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive, emphasised the strong partnership between IncuHive and TVBC in driving sustainability forward: "The collaboration between IncuHive and Test Valley Borough Council has been a fantastic example of how local government and business can work together to make a tangible impact. By providing the funding and framework for these trials, TVBC has enabled real, on-the-ground innovation in sustainable farming. The success of this initiative not only benefits the participating farms but provides information and inspiration for farms across Test Valley and beyond. We are proud to be part of this pioneering effort and look forward to continuing our work in sustainability."
As the TVBC Pilot Demonstrator initiative comes to an end in March 2025, the results and key findings will be published on the TVBC and IncuHive websites. These insights will provide valuable guidance for farmers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders looking to implement sustainable agricultural practices in the future.
For more information, please visit Nutrient usage efficiency trials | Test Valley Borough Council.
