More than 150 objections to Eton College’s greenfield housing plans in Seaview have been submitted.
Comments to the Isele of Wight Council on the application closed last week and objectors have been making their feelings known in droves.
“Totally improper use of a valued greenfield site”
One said the proposed development would represent a totally improper use of a valued greenfield site, which is much loved by the local community.
So far, no supportive comments have been registered with the council.
Plans were submitted by agents Fowler Architecture and Planning last month, on behalf of the college, saying the development represents a ‘logical in-fill extension of the existing settlement’.
Nine two to four-bed houses and bungalows
It wants to build nine two to four-bed houses and bungalows on the site locally known as the Donkey Field.
Island Roads has already lodged its objection to the development, saying it would increase traffic use through substandard junctions and along a substandard access road, to the detriment of highways safety.
One objector said developing the field would destroy the character of the area for all future generations by coalescing an urban area from Pier Road to Nettlestone.
They also said the Donkey Field provides a vital green lung for biodiversity, a sentiment shared by others who wish to see the scheme refused.
Seely: A depressing disregard to the community
Last year, a 150-year-old oak tree was felled on the site in preparation for a housing application, something Isle of Wight Conservative MP, Bob Seely, said he was appalled over.
In a letter to the Isle of Wight Council stating his objections, Mr Seely said Eton had shown a depressing disregard to the community and environment and there there was no clear need for the housing proposed.
You can view the plans, 21/01776/FUL on the council’s planning register.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is part of. Read here to find about more about how that scheme works on the Island. Some alterations and additions may have been made by News OnTheWight. Ed
Image: © Google Maps/Streetview
