County Hall Backs Plans For 32 New Homes Near Horsebridge Hill

Plans for 32 new homes near Horsebridge Hill have been approved by the Isle of Wight Council, in a move described as helping provide much-needed housing for Island families.

Captiva Homes has been granted permission for the development at Acorn Farm, which includes new housing, access roads, landscaping and supporting infrastructure.

The scheme forms the next phase of a wider project, following on from the previously approved 145 homes in the area.

Of the 32 properties, 20 will be market homes, nine will be classed as social or affordable rent, and three will be available through affordable home ownership.

In its decision report, the council says the development would deliver additional housing in a sustainable location close to existing homes, services and facilities.

It adds the design fits well with the surrounding area and would not have unacceptable impacts on neighbouring properties.

Planners also confirmed access to the site would be safe, with no significant impact on nearby roads or junctions.

Sufficient parking will be provided, and emergency and refuse vehicles will be able to operate safely on site.

The council says the proposal will not have unacceptable effects on trees, ecology or archaeology, subject to conditions.

A total of 17 planning conditions have been attached, covering drainage, environmental protection, open spaces, visual impact and highway safety.

Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council supported the plans, provided concerns around pedestrian safety, drainage, flooding, tree planting and health service capacity are addressed.

Local councillor Andrew Garratt welcomed the continued partnership with Sovereign Network Group to help deliver homes for Island residents to rent and buy, but raised concerns about traffic speeds on Horsebridge Hill, limited pedestrian infrastructure and flooding during heavy rain.