Plans For Two New Homes In Whitwell Rejected By Council

Controversial plans to build two new homes on land in Whitwell have been rejected by the Isle of Wight Council following concerns over the impact on the countryside, wildlife and local planning policies.

Perry Properties (Isle of Wight) had applied for permission to build two four-bedroom chalet bungalows on land off the village's High Street.

The proposal attracted significant opposition, with Niton and Whitwell Parish Council objecting alongside dozens of residents who raised concerns about flooding, the effect on a nearby public footpath and whether the development would benefit the local community.

In total, 42 letters of objection were submitted to the council.

Planning officers ultimately refused the application, citing five separate reasons for their decision.

A report issued by the council said the development would represent an "intrusion into the open countryside" and described it as a form of backland development that would be out of keeping with the area's existing pattern of housing.

Officers also said insufficient information had been provided to properly assess the potential impact on protected species, trees and biodiversity, including whether the scheme could achieve the required biodiversity net gain.

Further concerns were raised over compliance with affordable housing policies and the lack of evidence relating to measures designed to offset the environmental impact of additional nitrates generated by the development.

The applicant's planning agent had argued that the proposal would not result in unacceptable impacts on the landscape, neighbouring properties, highway safety, heritage assets, biodiversity or flood risk.

However, planners concluded that the scheme failed to meet a number of key policy requirements and refused permission.