Ventnor Winter Gardens Bid Faces Setback Despite Building Improvements

A community effort to secure ownership of Ventnor Winter Gardens has hit a setback, after an appeal by the building’s owner was upheld.

At a public meeting in Salisbury Gardens on January 15th, councillors confirmed that while the venue’s Asset of Community Value (ACV) status remains in place, a bid by “members of Ventnor” to register a right to purchase the building has been rejected.

Councillor Ed Blake, who represents Ventnor and St Lawrence, said the decision followed a disparity between national guidance and the Isle of Wight Council’s interpretation of it.

The Winter Gardens Steering Group also revealed they are still unclear on whether owner Kevin Sussmilch of the Hambrough Group intends to sell or what his long-term plans for the building may be.

Steering Group member Steve Witheyman told the meeting that although several parties have expressed interest, they are unwilling to move forward without knowing if the owner is prepared to sell.

Despite the uncertainty, there has been some positive progress.

Council officer Natasha Dix confirmed that most of the repair works required under a Section 215 enforcement notice have now been completed or are underway.

Improvements include cleaning the building’s exterior, replacing damaged glazing, removing adverts and clearing waste from the site. Further work, including repairs to the render and repainting, is currently ongoing.

Councillor Blake welcomed the progress, saying it was “a start” and that the council will continue working with the owners to ensure the building is fully restored.

The Hambrough Group has been approached for comment.