Concerns Raised Over Fire Training Facility Plans At Island Farm

Concerns have been raised over a proposed fire training facility at an Isle of Wight farm, with warnings it could pose a potential risk of contamination.

The Environment Agency has highlighted the possibility of water pollution in response to plans by maritime training company Flying Fish UK to change the use of land at Cockleton Farm, on the outskirts of Cowes and Gurnard.

The concerns come amid dozens of objections to the scheme from local residents and Gurnard Parish Council.

In its submission, the Environment Agency said the site’s current or historic use suggests there may be contamination present, which could be disturbed during construction and potentially impact groundwater and surface water.

However, the agency indicated the development could still go ahead if strict conditions are met.

This includes requiring a detailed land contamination management strategy to be submitted and approved, ensuring any risks are properly controlled during the works.

Without such measures in place, the Environment Agency has warned it would object to the application in line with national planning policy.

Planning agents acting on behalf of Flying Fish UK maintain the development is needed to support business growth and have said the scheme has been carefully designed to avoid harm to the environment, neighbouring properties, highways or drainage.

A public consultation on the plans is ongoing until 29 April, with a decision expected to follow.