Island Roads Raises Concerns Over Freshwater Housing Plans

Plans to build 44 new homes on land next to Freshwater have come under scrutiny from Island Roads.

The proposed development, off Birch Close, has been brought back forward by Onyx Development Finance and would include new access roads, parking and landscaped areas.

Island Roads has objected to the scheme, raising concerns about the size and layout of some of the proposed parking spaces.

The highways provider says some spaces are too narrow or short, which could result in vehicles being parked on the surrounding roads instead.

It has recommended that all parking bays measure at least 2.6 metres wide and five metres long.

Island Roads has also highlighted a particular issue with the parking planned for plots 39 to 44, saying a car would not be able to properly access and leave the space closest to the proposed building.

Concerns have also been raised about the site's surface water drainage and a potential flood risk.

However, documents submitted on behalf of the developer say the site is within Flood Zone One and is not considered to be at risk from surface water flooding.

The planning statement also says the development would provide 80 parking spaces, above the number required under current planning standards.

The existing road and footpath at Birch Close would be extended to create a loop through the development, while a pedestrian link to Solent Gardens is also proposed.

The developer says this would provide access for cars, service vehicles and pedestrians.

The Isle of Wight Council's public consultation on the application is due to close on August 28, with a decision expected by October 29.