'Criticial' Repair Works Approved For Northwood House Estate

‘Critical’ repair works needed to prevent the collapse of an historic stone barn wall within the grounds of an Isle of Wight stately home have been approved.

Planners have given the go ahead to Northwood House Charitable Trust’s Listed Building Consent application to repair stonework on the east elevation of a ‘neglected’ barn opposite Northwood House in Cowes.

Today a popular Island events venue, Northwood House dates from the early 19th century and is listed at Grade II* due to its ‘interior architectural interest’.

A submitted Design, Access and Heritage statement from Leah Mew Architecture Ltd says:

“It (the barn) appears on the map around the same time the current house does in 1840, although it is likely to have been present before that.

“Unfortunately, the property has been neglected over the years, resulting in the loss of the roof structure and all windows.

“The stonework, particularly in the affected area, has suffered significantly, and the wall is now deemed critical for repair before further erosion causes a collapse.”

County Hall’s decision report on application 25/00682/LBC says:

“This application relates to the south-east corner of the building which has suffered significant decay. Work has commenced on site to stabilise the corner of the building which requires reconstruction but also relates to localised repairs to the east, north and south elevations.

“The details within the submitted statement are acceptable – i.e., an area of stonework is to be taken down and reconstructed using the reclaimed stone and other material present on site. The specified mortar mix (NHL lime, sand and grit) is also acceptable.”