Plans To Convert Newport Office Building Into Flats Refused

Plans to convert vacant office space in the centre of Newport into six residential flats have been refused by the Isle of Wight Council.

IPM SIPP Administration had applied to redevelop 39–40 Quay Street, proposing four one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom flats spread across three floors of the building.

The applicant’s agent, Planning & Development Hub, previously argued that bringing redundant office space back into use would help revitalise Newport town centre by encouraging more people to live in the area.

However, council planners rejected the application, citing concerns over the impact on the Grade II listed building and the surrounding Newport Conservation Area.

In their decision report for application 25/01010/FUL, planners said the proposal would result in the loss of historic fabric and would harm the building’s special architectural and historic interest.

The report added that insufficient information had been provided about potential external alterations needed for the conversion, including ventilation, which could negatively affect the conservation area and the setting of nearby listed buildings.

Planners also noted the scheme failed to include a required financial contribution towards affordable housing on the Island.

In a statement submitted with the application, Planning & Development Hub said demand for office space has been declining for several years, with town centres changing as home working becomes more common.

They said buildings and their uses need to “evolve, adapt and change to meet the demands of the population,” warning that without redevelopment, vacant properties risk being left unused.