Plans To Convert Former Blackgang Milking Parlour Into Offices Rejected

Proposals to turn an old milking parlour into business space have been refused by Isle of Wight planners following criticism from councillors.

County Hall has rejected Fred Colson’s application for a conversion of a ‘completely redundant’ former milking shed northwest of Blackgang after an objection from Chale Parish Council (CPC).

An Isle of Wight Council decision report said the site is considered ‘unsustainable’ for the proposed use, due to it being outside of any settlement boundary, with limited transport options not involving a private motor vehicle.

The applicant’s agent, Plan Research, previously told County Hall the office would be for a rural business and labelled the use ‘compatible’ with existing residential uses at the site.

Small dairy farm buildings are left unused in many rural locations around the Isle of Wight or are now used for other purposes, the consultancy said.

CPC’s letter to the council said the objection was on the basis that the plan layout and size show the building may be used for purposes other than an office.