Decision Looms On Controversial East Cowes Marina Plan Amid Safety And Environmental Concerns

(c) Cowes Harbour Commission/Rainey Petrie Architecture

A controversial proposal to build a 145-berth leisure marina in East Cowes is set to be decided by the Isle of Wight Council next week, with concerns raised over pollution, parking and navigation safety on the River Medina.

The scheme, put forward by Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC), would create a new marina on the eastern bank of the Medina. While East Cowes Town Council has given the plans qualified support, residents and other interested parties have submitted a number of objections.

Earlier this year, Natural England warned the development was likely to have a "significant effect" on the Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation (SAC), with concerns over the permanent loss of protected habitat features.

In support of the application, CHC's agent, Rainey Petrie Architecture, said the marina would bring long-term economic, social and environmental benefits to East Cowes and the wider Island.

The firm described the project as strategically important, arguing it would strengthen East Cowes' position as a maritime destination by providing modern and climate-resilient berthing facilities while encouraging investment and visitor spending.

However, objections have been raised on several fronts.

Planning consultancy Plan Research, acting on behalf of a local resident, claimed dredging works had already begun before planning permission had been granted.

The firm also argued that the proposed marina would create a navigational hazard on the Medina.

It said the latest plans place the marina in the path of Red Funnel's East Cowes vehicle ferry and vessels launched from Wight Shipyard, increasing the risk of collisions by narrowing the channel used by commercial and leisure traffic.

Environmental concerns have also been raised over the potential impact of additional boats on water quality in the Solent.

Plan Research warned that while modern vessels are fitted with sewage holding tanks, they are not always used correctly, while some older craft can discharge waste directly into coastal waters.

Meanwhile, East Cowes resident Chloe Neill has questioned the lack of dedicated parking provision for marina users, visitors and berth holders.

She argued that marinas typically generate regular vehicle movements linked to boat maintenance, servicing and leisure visits, describing the absence of dedicated parking as a fundamental omission.

However, Island Roads said its assessment found no evidence the scheme would create unacceptable levels of overspill parking or adversely affect the operation or safety of the local highway network.

Rainey Petrie Architecture has defended the proposals, saying environmental responsibility is embedded throughout the design.

Measures include protecting sensitive marine habitats, reducing dredging impacts, using sustainable piling methods and installing downward-facing lighting.

While supporting the application, East Cowes Town Council has asked CHC to reconsider elements of the proposed metalwork design, citing concerns about its appearance within the surrounding conservation area and views from the Solent.

The Isle of Wight Council is due to determine application 26/00159/FUL on Monday, 22 June.