Plans To Secure Future Of Isle Of Wight Sports, Education And Leisure Sites With New Long Leases

Long leases could be granted for five Isle of Wight council-owned properties and sites, including a multi-use games area, pre-school and beach bar.

County Hall’s policy, finance and resources committee (PFRC) yesterday (Thursday) considered proposed leases for assets in Newport, Upper Ventnor, Cowes, on Ryde Esplanade and in Shanklin.

Confirmation has yet to arrive regarding a recommendation to full council for the granting of long leases in connection with Barton Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), Rew Valley Sports Centre (RVSC) and playing fields, Blackberry Lane Pre-School, The Dell Beach Bar and the access road leading to Lower Hyde Holiday Park.

A PFRC report due to be presented tomorrow says:

“By approving this report, the council is supporting economic recovery and, to an extent, is therefore helping reduce poverty as it is enabling commercial businesses (The Dell Beach Bar and Lower Hyde Holiday Park) to continue in existence and, potentially, grow.

“If these leases were not to be approved by the council (if this is even legally possible) the potential adverse impact upon these businesses could be significant.

“By approving this report, the council is helping to create a positive impact on young people and future generations by supporting delivery of the MUGA at Barton School, the provision of sports facilities and playing fields (RVSC) to The Island Free School and continuing with pre-school provision at Blackberry Lane.”

The document added that the sites and properties were not considered to be suitable for affordable or social rent housing provision.