Construction Begins On Major 473-Home Ryde Development

Construction has officially begun on one of the Isle of Wight's largest housing developments after the High Court refused a second judicial review challenge.

The West Acre Park development in Ryde will deliver 473 new homes, alongside commercial space, a doctor's surgery and a café.

Developer Captiva Homes described the start of construction as a "major milestone" for the long-awaited scheme, which has faced years of opposition and legal challenges.

Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson visited the site with representatives from Captiva Homes, saying the company is set to become the Island's largest provider of affordable housing.

He said around 70 per cent of the Isle of Wight's affordable homes due to be delivered next year will come from Captiva developments.

Mr Robertson added:

"By 2029, they will have delivered the largest ever affordable housing project in East Wight, including provision for a new medical centre should the Integrated Care Board decide to commission it.

"It has already helped reduce the council's backlog of people accommodated in inappropriately oversized homes, freeing up accommodation for families in need.

"There is much more to be done, but this is the most significant local solution that is beginning to deliver."

Captiva Homes' Chief Executive, Iain Delaney, said the development would provide much-needed homes while bringing investment and jobs to the Island economy.

He said housing association Sovereign Network Group is investing more than £40 million to deliver 135 social rent homes and 58 shared ownership properties as part of the scheme.

Mr Delaney said:

"The start of construction at West Acre Park is an incredibly proud moment for everyone involved.

"This helps us provide a range of housing options which, combined with a diverse mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, will help hundreds of Island families into homes of their own."

However, the development continues to divide opinion.

Ryde Appley and Elmfield councillor Michael Lilley said many residents remain concerned about the impact of the development and whether the necessary infrastructure will be in place to support the growing population.

He said while there is a clear need for more affordable housing, local people still have unanswered questions and hope developers will work closely with residents to address their concerns.

Meanwhile, Greenfields (IOW), the residents' company behind the legal challenge to the development, says it intends to continue contesting the council's decision to grant planning permission until all legal avenues have been exhausted.