A new highly-anticipated but long-awaited Isle of Wight football ground could be a step closer.
It comes as traffic restrictions and speed limits on nearby roads in Whippingham are set to be approved in the coming weeks.
New home of Newport FC
They are part of the plans, although not yet approved, for the proposed new home of Newport FC and would reduce motorists’ speed to 40mph near the site’s proposed entrance and exit.
Currently, the stretches of Whippingham Road and Racecourse leading up to the roundabout are 50mph.
A safe entrance and exit
Other proposals would ensure safe entrance and exit to the football ground.
If going into the site, you would only be able to turn left, coming from the roundabout.
Leaving the football ground, you would only be able to turn left, sending all traffic to the Racecourse roundabout.
Removing risk to pedestrians and cyclists
The authority says there is a risk to pedestrians and cyclists, the safe and free movement of traffic and emergency access if no restrictions are put in place, once the new football ground is operating.
The proposals would, the council says, ensure safety for all road users while helping the movement of traffic.
The stadium has been in the pipeline for more than five years.
Work stopped on site
Last year, some boundary hedges were cleared, but work has since stopped on the site and conditions of the planning permission still need addressing.
The developers, South Coast Leisure, have agreed to fund the necessary work to implement the restrictions on the roads.
The Isle of Wight council is recommended to approve the 40mph limits and no entry restrictions after a consultation period.
The authority received 19 representations, ten supportive but nine against.
Delegated decision
Cllr Phil Jordan, the cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, is set to make a delegated decision on 9th May.
Cllr Jordan could refuse the proposals or agree them with an amendment.
Other highways-related proposals are required, such as details of the access and exit junctions to be approved and built before the football ground can be occupied.
Newport FC’s former home, on St George’s Way, currently stands empty as it is proposed to be turned into a retail park with tenants including McDonald’s, Costa Coffee and Aldi.
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
