Apartment Plans Thrown Out After Concerns From Ryde Residents

Proposals to build a block of five apartments on a brownfield site within an Isle of Wight town centre have been thrown out following residents’ concerns.

Planners ruled that Ian and Carol Hudson’s residential accommodation on land behind 13 Union Street in Ryde would be ‘unneighbourly’ and result in ‘unacceptable levels’ of overlooking as well as privacy and natural light loss.

The development with associated landscaping would have consisted of three two bedroom flats and two one bedroom units.

Craig Soutar Architecture and Phil Salmon Planning previously told County Hall that the proposal serves to meet some of the identified need for extra Island housing and is ‘fully compliant’ with the area’s character.

Council officers highlighted points including a lack of accurate information submitted relating to biodiversity net gain, the applicant not entering a legal agreement to secure a contribution towards affordable housing and the development harming the character and setting of designated heritage assets.

Craig Soutar Architecture and Phil Salmon Planning’s Planning, Design and Access Statement said: “The site is well served by public transport for residents, as well a footpaths and connections to local facilities.

“Heritage assets, represented by the defined conservation and designated Listed Buildings would be preserved, together with their settings.

“The application scheme is accessible, contextual and fully compliant with the surrounding character of the area.”