Plans Submitted For 145-Berth Marina In East Cowes

Plans have been submitted for a new 145-berth leisure marina in East Cowes.

Cowes Harbour Commission is seeking planning permission for the development in Cowes Harbour, with access from the eastern bank of the River Medina.

The proposal includes 145 floating berths arranged across pontoons, a 142-metre fixed access walkway, and a main pontoon area measuring around 120 metres by 220 metres.

According to a Design and Access Statement from Rainey Petrie Architecture, the number of berths has been independently assessed based on current harbour use, expected future demand and ambitions to attract larger vessels to East Cowes.

The marina would be available for both private annual berth holders and visiting boats, supporting a wide range of leisure craft.

The plans also include the installation of a pump-out system, which removes sewage from boat holding tanks to help prevent pollution entering coastal waters.

The application states there would be no discharge to the environment.

Planning documents say the development would provide modern marine infrastructure, strengthen East Cowes’ maritime role and support tourism, while encouraging more larger vessels to visit the harbour.

The proposal also states it would preserve the character and setting of nearby historic sites including Bells Landing, Victoria Barracks and The Guardhouse.

Isle of Wight Council is running a public consultation on the application until April 21, with a decision currently expected by June 22.