Plans To Build Homes On Former Newport Car Wash Site Rejected

Plans to redevelop a former car wash and private car park in Newport into housing have been refused by the Isle of Wight Council.

The proposal, for land near Trafalgar Road and West Street, would have seen a disused car wash building converted into seven homes, alongside a terrace of three new houses.

Planning officers rejected the scheme, saying it would create “substandard and oppressive living conditions” for future residents.

A report found the homes would be too small, with limited windows and poor access to light, ventilation and privacy.

Concerns were also raised about a lack of outdoor space for residents.

The application, submitted by Harding Holdings and designed by Solent Design, had been described as a high-quality regeneration project aimed at delivering smaller, more affordable homes.

However, the plans faced opposition from Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council, local residents and ward councillor Julie Jones-Evans.

Objections included concerns over access, insufficient daylight, the number of one-bedroom properties and the overall layout of the development.

Further reasons for refusal included potential privacy and security issues linked to a proposed footpath, as well as concerns around traffic, noise and pollution.

Planners also highlighted missing information on drainage, ecology and biodiversity, along with a lack of contributions towards affordable housing and environmental mitigation.

The applicant had argued the development would help meet demand for smaller homes on the Island, particularly for first-time buyers and single-person households.