Plans to turn a once popular Isle of Wight hotel into a house have been refused, for a second time.
The owner of Melville Hall Hotel in Sandown wanted permission to convert the 20+ bed hotel into a single house, but Isle of Wight council planning officers rejected Alan Humphreys’ plan.
Five local residents objected to the scheme, while three were in support.
‘Fallen into disrepair’
Those who objected, said the once upmarket accommodation had ‘fallen into disrepair’ and argued Sandown needed its hotels.
Supporters said tourism is in decline and pointed out it had not been a hotel for years.
IWC: No enough info
Planning officers said they had not been given enough information about whether the hotel could continue to function as a business or that it had been up for sale as tourism accommodation.
Porch plans rejected
A new porch was also turned down because the officer said it was “alien” and would “jar” with the hotel’s traditional design.
Officers acknowledged the wide range of building designs in the area, but said the porch was not of high-quality design and would not complement the character and appearance of the building.
Appeal
Mr Humphreys can appeal the decision to the Planning Inspectorate.
A previous plan to turn the hotel into a house was also refused, in June 2023.
Mr Humphreys appealed that earlier decision with the government and an investigation is underway.
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
