Cowes Sushi And Coffee Cafe Plans Include Reclaimed Shipping Container

Plans have been submitted to install a reclaimed shipping container alongside a former public toilet block in Cowes to support a proposed sushi and coffee cafe.

Leah Mew Architecture has applied to the Isle of Wight Council on behalf of Amick Productions for permission to build the additional structure at Park Road Public Convenience, within the historic Northwood House Estate.

The container would provide extra space for The Bath House Isle of Wight, which has already received approval for hospitality use.

A Design and Heritage Statement says the additional space is needed to make the business viable and sustainable.

The plans are backed by Cowes resident Mike Christie, a member of vocal group G4 and organiser of the Wight Proms and Wight Games festivals.

The submitted statement describes the proposed container as timber-clad, modest in scale and positioned away from prominent public views. It says the structure would also be fully reversible, with a “negligible” impact on the Cowes Conservation Area.

The document warns that without the additional space, the building could fall vacant again.

The cafe was granted a premises licence by the council in May.

Mr Christie said at the time he wanted to transform what he described as an eyesore into something beautiful that would benefit the community without causing a nuisance.

The Bath House website describes the business as focusing on quality coffee and fresh food.

The public can comment on planning application 26/01240/FUL until 30 October, with a decision expected on 26 November.