Controversial Ryde Seafront Flat Approved Despite Local Objections

Plans to create a new two-bedroom apartment in the lower ground floor of a Victorian villa near Ryde beach have been approved by the Isle of Wight Council, despite objections from neighbours and Ryde Town Council.

The proposal, for Leavington House on East Hill Road, will see part of the lower ground floor converted into a market housing flat with access to a large communal garden.

Ryde Town Council raised concerns over the lack of parking, access to an existing wine cellar and the absence of an affordable housing contribution at the time.

Two residents also lodged objections, including one who said there was “no soundproofing” between her property and the space below.

A legal agreement has since been uploaded to the planning portal confirming both affordable housing and habitat mitigation contributions will be made.

Other concerns included no provision for prams or buggies, and no electric vehicle charging points.

Planning agents Planit Consulting argued the flat would receive sufficient natural light and would not negatively impact neighbours, adding the layout included two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, bathroom and wine cellar.

A council planning officer concluded the area could accommodate additional parking demand and that the project would not have a “materially negative effect” on surrounding properties.

The application was approved under reference 25/01280/FUL.