Flats Could Be Installed In Historic Seafront Building

Two new flats could be installed in an historic three-storey building on an Isle of Wight seafront.

Ian Fern of IDF Investments Ltd has lodged plans with County Hall for a works scheme at Ryde’s Prince Consort at 19 St Thomas Street, including a refurbishment of its lower ground floor offices, alterations and an upper ground floor conversion to create two apartments.

Previously the Royal Victoria Yacht Club House, the Grade II listed structure was built in 1846.

The Prince Consort’s upper and lower ground floors are currently vacant, according to a submitted statement from Mr Fern’s agent, the Andrew White Planning Consultancy.

It says:

“The proposed development will bring this historic building back into use and ensure its continued survival. The approval of the conversion of the upper ground floor will bring two additional units of residential development into the overall housing stock of the Island where there is currently an under-delivery.

“The scheme will ensure there is no substantial harm to the listed building, its setting or the setting of nearby listed buildings. Similarly, there will be no harm to the historic character and appearance of the designated conservation area.”

Mr Fern’s proposed flats are two and three bedroomed and each include a lobby, open plan kitchen/living room and a bathroom.

The council’s public consultation on application 25/00894/FUL closes on August 1 and a decision is due on August 22.