Plans Unveiled To Expand Alzheimer’s Café In Cowes Amid Ageing Island Population

A much-loved Alzheimer’s Café in Cowes could soon be expanded to offer improved facilities for people living with dementia and those who support them.

Plans have been submitted by Mrs M. Bennett to extend and alter the Parklands Dementia Resource Centre on Park Road — a community facility leased from County Hall for 25 years.

According to the applicant’s agent, Phil Salmon Planning, the centre has been “highly successful” in supporting Islanders affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The planning statement highlights the growing demand for dementia services, noting that the Isle of Wight’s population aged 65 and over stands at 29.3%, compared to the national average of 18.3%.

“The demands on the NHS and social services on the Isle of Wight are significant — much higher than the national average,” the statement says.

“Given the identified need for additional services across the Island, this proposal serves to meet some of that need.”

The plans include:

• A single-storey side extension providing extra social and activity space.

• A rear extension for new WC, laundry, and utility facilities.

• A landscaped garden area designed to be fully wheelchair accessible.

The proposals aim to create more space for therapeutic activities and social interaction, helping meet the needs of the Island’s growing older population.

The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on the application (reference 25/01246/FUL) runs until December 5, with a decision expected later in the month.