Concerns raised following the submission of plans for the major redevelopment of Norris Castle have been addressed by developers.
Plans were unveiled last month to turn the East Cowes estate into a year-round heritage and natural environment-led destination.
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What the plans include
The castle is proposed to be transformed into a 17-suite hotel with a further 57 additional suites built into the grounds, designed to remove the landslip risk to the castle.
Farm buildings will be restored and converted into a spa and wellness centre, with further repairs made throughout the estate.
‘Decades of neglect’
However, developers Norris Castle Estate Group (NCEG) say the plan is the only viable option for conserving the estate as a whole.
The castle, estate and other listed buildings are in a state of disrepair, after ‘decades of neglect as a private residence’, and developers say they have worked to limit further deterioration.
‘Heritage at Risk’ register
All three of the estate’s Grade I listed assets are now on Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk’ register because of urgent need for repair.
Coastal erosion is a risk to be dealt with, NCEG says, otherwise, it would not be possible to raise the investment needed to put the castle to any viable use.
More than £100m of costs
Planning documents estimate repairs would cost £16.55m with conversion costs put at £90.74m.
An estimated 120 homes are proposed on the neighbouring Springhill Estate, to ensure the viability of the development but NCEG says that is no more than necessary.
Mixed reactions
The plans have been met with mixed reactions, with one supportive letter submitted to the council, but four against, including from the Isle of Wight Society.
Recommendations to refuse the plans have been sent from Island Roads and the Environment Agency.
Esplanade entrance
Many concerns have centred around the entrance proposed from East Cowes Esplanade, above the Southern Water pumping station.
It is thought using the Esplanade as the main access point will increase traffic levels in the mainly pedestrian area.
NCEG say the proposed access road would have a signalised junction, pedestrian footway, dropped kerbs and tactile paving to enhance pedestrian safety.
Visitors will be encouraged to leave their cars at home, lessening the traffic increase, with a pick-up and drop-off service provided.
It says the proposals would only have a minimal impact on the highways or pedestrian safety.
Would be tied into legally enforceable planning conditions
Answering concerns about whether the development will actually be completed, NCEG said it would be tied into legally enforceable planning conditions as part of the permission, with a management company maintaining the estate.
Open to the public
As a benefit, NCEG said it would open up Norris Castle to the public, providing a large range and number of jobs.
The sale of the houses will also be restricted to allow local people first choice to buy them.
NCEG say the plan has taken so long to ensure it was a thoroughly evidence-based application that addresses all planning considerations.
View the plans
To view the plans, 21/02437/FUL and 21/02438/LBC, you can visit the council’s planning register.
The public consultation runs until 8th April 2022.
A Website will be available from Friday (18th) with more information, pictures and planning summaries to look at.
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
