Isle of Wight councillor for Bembridge, Joe Robertson (Con), has been in touch to share the news that IW planning officers will be refusing the planning application for holiday lodges in the protected woodland.
The Love Lane application attracted over 250 objections, including from CPRE Isle of Wight, as well as Isle of Wight Conservative MP, Bob Seely.
Robertson: Glad that sense has prevailed
Cllr Robertson said the applicants are aware of the decision to refuse and the full report should be published in the coming days.
He told News OnTheWight,
“I am glad that sense has prevailed. This small woodland site is simply not suitable for housing of any kind or for exploitation for financial gain.
“The cost to local amenity value along this narrow tranquil lane would be too great.
“I hope the mainland based applicants can understand the strength of local feeling and seek more appropriate opportunities elsewhere.”
Thanks given to objectors
Cllr Robertson went on to share his thanks with all local residents who submitted their objections and also his predecessor, former Independent councillor Michael Murwill, the local CPRE branch and Bob Seely.
Cllr Robertson said,
“Bob has a proven track record of objecting to inappropriate green field development all over the Island and his support is appreciated.”
Seely: It should be left well alone
When Bob Seely objected to the application in March this year, he said,
“Not only is this an unspoiled greenfield site which is of great importance to the local community, it is also woodland that is home to protected wildlife.
“I find it outrageous that anyone would even think to build on woodland like this. It should be left well alone.”
Image: © Joe Robertson
