Sandown Town Council To Explore Compulsory Purchase Orders To Tackle Derelict Sites

Sandown Town Council is set to explore the use of compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) as a long-term solution to derelict buildings and vacant land across the town.

At a meeting held on Monday (March 23), councillors agreed to commit officer time and resources to researching the policy, particularly as upcoming devolution proposals are expected to bring enhanced regeneration and land assembly powers.

CPOs enable public bodies to acquire land without the owner’s consent and, when used appropriately, can support regeneration projects, infrastructure delivery and wider community improvements.

Speaking ahead of the vote, Mayor Alex Lightfoot said the move was about preparing for future opportunities.

He told the council he wanted approval to begin detailed work into how CPOs could be used to address some of Sandown’s most problematic sites, especially in light of potential changes to planning legislation and increased powers expected under a future mayoral authority.

Councillor Ian Boyd, who represents Sandown North, backed the proposal, describing it as an important statement of intent.

He said areas that demonstrate a clear commitment to using CPO powers are likely to be in a stronger position when funding and support becomes available through the new governance arrangements.

County and town councillor Debbie Andre also supported the move, saying it could make a significant difference locally and reflects what residents have been calling for.

Fellow Sandown North councillor Joan Solomon agreed the council should take early steps but warned the process is lengthy and complex.

She noted that CPOs can only be used as a last resort and typically require involvement from the Isle of Wight Council, with projects potentially taking several years to progress.

The decision marks the first step in what could become a key tool for tackling long-standing regeneration challenges in Sandown.