Five New Homes Approved Near Former St Helens Station Despite Objections

Plans to build five new homes next to a former train station in St Helens have been approved by the Isle of Wight Council, despite more than 20 objections from residents.

The development, on land beside Station House on Station Road, will include five ‘market housing’ properties, along with an access road, garages, parking and landscaping.

Concerns raised by objectors included the scheme being out of character with the village, overlooking neighbouring homes, loss of privacy and the use of a greenfield site.

Some also questioned the need for additional high-end housing.

However, planning officers said the principle of housing on the site is supported by local policy, with the layout described as appropriate and spacious.

They acknowledged concerns about overlooking and disturbance, but concluded there would be enough distance between properties, along with landscaping and changes in land levels, to limit the impact.

Conditions will also be put in place, including the use of obscure glazing on some windows to protect neighbours’ privacy.

The application, submitted by Stratton and Raben, was supported on the basis it would help address the Island’s housing shortage.

In total, 18 conditions have been attached to the approval, covering areas such as ecology, tree protection, highway safety and biodiversity.