A planning application to convert the former Ventnor Radar Station into holiday accommodation is attracting a range of objections from residents and conservation organisations. Long-time readers will remember the former Radar Station was sold at auction by BT in October 2005 for £61,000.
The Campaign to Protect Rural England say they would’ve liked to support the application for conversion of the existing building to a four bedroom holiday accommodation unit, but have a number of concerns, including potential light pollution of dark night skies, foul sewage plans and flood risks.
Wroxall parish council recommend refusal of the application once again (this is a revised application) saying, “the planned holiday home is in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and is outside the permitted development envelope”.
Visual impact in AONB
The AONB department have lodged their opposition to the first floor extension to the building saying it would, “create a detrimental visual impact in this highly exposed location”. They also raise concerns about light pollution.
Others argue the “change of use would set a clear and dangerous precedent for further such development on St Boniface Down” and that the “Ecological Survey is seriously lacking in content and methodology”. Other arguments include noise from occupants, fire risk from BBQs and light pollution.
Support from tourist board
Chair of Visit Isle of Wight, Simon Dabell, adds the DMO’s support for the application, saying, “the plans show imagination and make best use of what has been for many years a derelict site”.
Residents have until 17th October to share their views with the Isle of Wight council on the revised application.
Comments can be left via the council’s planning Website.
Image: © Google Streetview
