An Isle of Wight town centre could get two new ‘low-cost’ flats.
Wightlife Properties Limited has applied to the Isle of Wight Council for planning permission to convert the ground floor of a property at 120 and 120A High Street in Ryde into two ‘much needed’ studio apartments.
Other works
Other proposed works include replacing the building’s current front door, additional shop front works, demolishing and repairing a rear lean-to structure along with excavation work, demolishing a rear first floor extension and creating two new openings at the back of the building to form balconies for two existing upper flats.
Vacant since June
The property’s ground floor has been vacant since June 2024, according to a Planning Statement prepared by Maddox Planning on behalf of the applicant.
It described the proposal as an ‘excellent opportunity’ to ‘improve the economic, social, and environmental conditions’ of the area.
New housing on a brownfield site
The property consultant listed five benefits,
“Deliver new housing on a brownfield site in an accessible location in line with national and local planning policy objectives – ultimately supporting the longer-term vitality and viability of Ryde town centre.
“Delivery of much needed low-cost housing, which will assist in meeting an identified need.
“Improve the appearance of the building, through repairs and making good of the property, together with removal of rear stores which detract from the quality of the building.
“Further creation of local employment opportunities through the construction of the development and potential management roles during the operational phase.
“Encouraging new residents and visitors to use more sustainable modes of transport through the provision of easily accessible cycle storage.”
A submitted report from highways service provider Island Roads made no objection to the application.
View the plans
You can view the plans on the council’s planning register (24/01840/FUL).
The public consultation runs until 20th January 2025.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
