Derelict Sandown Seafront Bar To Be Converted Into Four-Bedroom Home

A former seafront bar in Sandown, described as being in a “poor state of repair,” is set to be transformed into a four-bedroom house — but concerns have been raised about the project.

The building, once known as The King’s House Bar and now called Wave House, sits next to the derelict Ocean Hotel on the Esplanade.

It was sold at auction in 2013 for £351,017.

Isle of Wight Hotels Ltd has been granted planning permission to convert the boarded-up property at 30 High Street into a three-storey home with a garden, overlooking the seafront.

Directors of the company include Nick Spyker and Malcolm Moorman.

Sandown Town Council, however, highlighted worries over the applicant’s “track record of neglect,” urging County Hall to attach strict planning conditions and enforceable Section 215 notices if needed to protect and enhance the town.

NOTE: A Section 215 notice can require owners to address the poor condition of a building.

County Hall’s planning report for application 25/00692/FUL stated:

“The proposal would be for a four-bedroom dwelling, with all habitable rooms benefiting from natural light. Due to separation distances, surrounding uses, and the property’s former use as a drinking establishment, no neighbouring amenity would be harmed.

"The loss of the community asset would not cause adverse impacts that significantly outweigh the benefits, including sensitive conversion and bringing the property back into active use.”

Ten conditions were attached to the consent, covering planning policy, visual appearance, conservation, privacy, highway safety, and legal compliance.