Concerns Raised Over Plans For 38 New Homes On Rookley Greenfield Site

A plan to build 38 new homes on farmland in Rookley has sparked local concerns about flooding, speeding, and the strain on village infrastructure.

The outline proposal, submitted by Mr and Mrs Isaacson, sets out a vision for a new housing estate on land at The Lodge, off Rookley’s Main Road.

Around 35% of the homes would be classed as “affordable”, with the rest for the open market.

If approved, the development would include new access roads, parking areas, landscaping, biodiversity improvements and a sustainable drainage pond designed to manage surface water.

But Rookley Parish Council has formally objected to the scheme, warning that the site — which sits on clay — is already prone to flooding.

A spokesperson said:

“There have been flooding issues in that area already — residents have photographic evidence.

"The site slopes down towards Merstone, with the drainage ditch flowing towards Blackwater, so we’d need a guarantee that any new system would actually protect nearby homes.”

The council also raised safety fears about speeding through the village, noting two recent accidents along Main Road.

Members said the development would increase pedestrian traffic and called for a zebra crossing to be installed.

Visibility issues at the proposed site entrance were also highlighted, with concerns that a hedge, a bus stop post and even a waste bin could obscure the view for drivers.

The parish council said the access road appeared “too narrow” and that nearby pavements would need widening, with dropped kerbs added for safety.

However, the applicants’ agent — Andrew White Planning Consultancy — argues the project would deliver much-needed homes.

They said:

“There is an undeniable need for both market and affordable housing on the Island.

"These plans would make a significant contribution to meeting that need.

"The new homes would be built to a high standard, in a mix of sizes and styles, with affordable homes designed to be indistinguishable from the private ones.”

The agent added that the development would “sit well with the general shape of Rookley” and not “jut awkwardly into the countryside.”

The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on the application (ref: 25/01332/OUT) runs until October 24, with a decision expected on December 19.