A long period of site investigation, feasibility studies, obtaining planning permission and fulfilling planning conditions followed, including detailed discussions with Vosper Thorneycroft,who had agreed to construct the main feather sculpture.

The fundraising continued, including an Itchen Bridge collection day and the selling of inscribed bricks in the garden paths.

The main fundraising sources were Onyx Environmental Trust, Southern Arts, Southampton City Council and public donations. A large number of local organisations and companies offered support and sponsorship to bring the garden to fruition. Their names are recorded on plaques mounted on the notice board in the garden.