The number of eco-lodges planned for the grounds of the Isle of Wight’s East Dene site have been slashed after the proposals sparked controversy.
In an updated scheme, half the number are requested – just eight – following concerns about their impact on the landscape.
A ’boutique’ 20-bed hotel idea has also disappeared from the updated proposals and instead, the scheme suggests turning the Grade II listed historic house into an ‘aparthotel’, with six apartments which will have one to six-bedrooms and a commercial kitchen.
Glass-covered walkway to remain
Under the previous plans, a glass-covered walkway, added in 1912, between East Dene and the Coach House, could have been demolished but will now be retained as part of the largest apartment.
The former Bonchurch children’s activity centre closed in 2020 and last year Joesph Allnatt Centres, which has owned East Dene since 1978, sold it to new owners. They suggested turning it into a boutique wellness hotel with eco-lodges in the grounds, a swimming pool, spa and gym.
Almost 100 objections
Nearly 100 objections were lodged, including from St Boniface Church, Ventnor Town Council and Historic England.
Other alterations
Now, the new plans will see the old swimming pool refurbished and reused, a pool bar and changing rooms added, instead of plans for a pavilion hosting a gym/spa with an attached swimming pool.
The number of parking spaces proposed has been reduced and there will be be no overflow provision.
Wonder Wellbeing was expected to take over the site, offering high-end accommodation and bespoke health, nutrition and alternative medicine treatments.
View the updated plans
You can view the updated plans, 22/02249/FUL and 22/02250/LBC, on the Isle of Wight Council planning register.
The public consultation runs until 20th October 2023.
Article edit
12.20pm 27th Sep 2023 – Added reference to property being sold by Allnatt and new owner putting in planning permission
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
