Dozens Object To Proposed Fire Training Facility Near Cowes

Dozens of objections have been lodged against plans to create a fire training facility on vacant land at a farm near Cowes, ahead of a parish council meeting this week.

The proposal, submitted by maritime training company Flying Fish UK, would see a change of use for land at Cockleton Farm, on the outskirts of Cowes and Gurnard.

The company, which is based in Cowes, provides sailing and maritime training for people pursuing careers in the industry.

Concerns raised by residents include the potential impact of fumes, smoke and smells from the site, along with noise pollution, increased traffic and possible effects on public health.

One Northwood resident said the facility could lead to “intermittent, unpredictable and intrusive” noise from alarms, training exercises and vehicle movements, adding that this would harm the living conditions of nearby homes.

Another objector expressed concern about the effect of smoke and fumes, suggesting it could prevent residents from enjoying their outdoor space and even force them to keep windows and doors closed.

However, planning agents acting on behalf of Flying Fish UK say the development would support both a local business and the wider economy.

In a statement, Andrew White Planning Consultancy said the proposal would “cause no harm” to neighbouring properties, highway safety or drainage, and argued the land is no longer required for farming or equine use.

They added the training facility would be in keeping with the surrounding farmyard and represents a sensible diversification of redundant land, with mitigation measures in place to limit any environmental impact.

Gurnard Parish Council is set to discuss the application at an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday, where members of the public will be able to share their views.

Alliance councillor Paul Fuller is also expected to attend.

The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on the plans has now closed, with a decision currently expected in April.