Plans For Four ‘Low-Cost’ Homes In East Cowes Face Objections

Plans to build four ‘low-cost’ homes on land currently used as a garden in East Cowes have attracted objections from a civic society and local councillors.

Penny Downer has applied to build two pairs of semi-detached chalet bungalows on land to the rear of 109 to 113 Old Road.

At least 19 objections have been submitted, raising concerns including overdevelopment, highway safety, the design of the proposed homes and their impact on neighbouring properties.

There are also concerns about potential overlooking and an infestation of Japanese Knotweed.

Sarah Burdett, chair of the Isle of Wight Society, said the proposed density of the development would adversely affect existing homes and their character.

She highlighted 109 and 111 Old Road, which form part of Queen Victoria’s estate.

East Cowes Town Council has also objected to the plans.

Planning consultant Martha James said the development would create a “cramped” layout which would have a negative impact on future residents, neighbouring properties and the street scene.

However, the applicant’s agent, Paul Stack, said the benefits of providing low-cost housing on an underused urban site outweighed any potential harm.

A planning statement said the scheme would not adversely affect the character or appearance of the area, given the scale of surrounding development.

It added that the proposal would provide additional two and three-bedroom homes and help meet the Island’s housing needs on an underused site.

The public consultation on the application ended on September 21, with a decision expected on October 13.