A ‘tired and dated’ but popular cafe on the edge of Shanklin could be reborn with a flat on top.
Fears have been raised about cliff stability with the demolish and rebuild plan.
Blueberry’s Cafe, on the Cliff Path overlooking the Bay, is currently a single-storey building with an outdoor covered patio.
‘Tired and dated in appearance’
However, agent Andrew White Planning Consultancy, acting on behalf of Mr and Mrs Eede, said it is accepted the cafe does not positively contribute to the visual qualities of the area as it is tired and dated in appearance.
In planning documents, the agents say the only thing holding the cafe back is the nature and condition of the existing building.
The proposals could improve the cafe facilities which would benefit both the tourist and residential populations by providing year-round facilities and strengthening the business.
As part of the regeneration plans, a two-bed flat would be built on top of the cafe.
It is said to have minimum impact on the amenities of nearby residential properties through overdominance, loss of privacy or overlooking.
The flat will also provide security to the site, the planners say.
Objections from residents
However, nearby residents in Littlestairs Road have already objected to the plans.
They said they are happy for the cafe to be rebuilt and refurbished but object to the added residential accommodation.
One said:
“We feel that to build a stable two-storey building that close to the cliff could cause major disturbance to the cliff edge and cliff path. There are no other buildings this close to the cliff edge.”
Another highlighted the recent cliff falls in the area and said the larger structure could undermine the cliff as well as neighbouring properties.
There were also concerns about the accommodation blocking light into their houses and garden and ruining their views.
View the plans
You can view the application, 22/02208/FUL, on the Isle of Wight council’s planning register.
The public consultation runs until 3rd February.
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
Image: © Dean Parkman Architecture
