Cowes Woman Claims She Was "Shouted At" After Objecting To Neighbour's House Plans

An Isle of Wight woman says she was left “intimidated and distressed” after being “shouted at” by a neighbour whose planning application she had opposed.

Suzanne Warwick, of Cowes, was among several residents who objected to Steve Haines’s now-approved proposal to replace a 1950s home with a new four-bedroom property overlooking the Solent at 19 Queens Road.

The scheme — the third attempt to redevelop the site — drew five objections and four letters of support, including one from Mr Haines himself.

Architects KnoxHowell described the plans as a sensitive and carefully considered design that would “enhance the Cowes Conservation Area,” adding that the project had been shaped by “local context and character” following close consultation with planning officers.

However, Ms Warwick told the Isle of Wight Council’s planning department the new home would “harm the special character of the conservation area” and “cause unacceptable loss of amenity” for neighbours. She also raised concerns over land stability in the area.

In a further statement submitted in late September, she claimed she was “directly approached” by the applicant:

“During this encounter, I was shouted at in a way that I found intimidating and distressing.

"I want to make it clear my comments were made solely through proper planning channels and relate only to the application itself, not the applicant personally.”

Ms Warwick added that she did not wish to be approached again and warned she would make a formal complaint if the behaviour continued.

When contacted for comment, Mr Haines declined to respond.

In its decision notice, the Isle of Wight Council said the approved design was “well-proportioned” and would “conserve and enhance” the character of the conservation area.

The report stated that the new home would reduce overlooking issues compared to the existing building and “maintain the amenities of neighbouring residents.”

Planning permission was granted with conditions covering site safety, land stability, environmental protection, and conservation standards.