The Isle of Wight Council’s Policy, Finance and Resources Committee has taken a major step forward to revitalise a prominent seafront location by empowering the local community to shape its future, by agreeing to transfer the ownership of the Pier Street site to Sandown Town Council.
Long-standing regeneration challenge
The Pier Street site in Sandown has long been identified as a key regeneration opportunity by the council, but investors have faced ongoing delivery challenges in recent years due to the cost of potential public realm improvements and the requirement to maintain public toilets.
Plans for the site
Sandown Town Council has stepped forward with a renewed commitment to the site, with plans to initially reopen facilities and explore longer-term regeneration opportunities in line with local priorities.
Public toilets protected
If any redevelopment proposal involves the removal of the public toilet facility, a suitable alternative facility will have to be provided either on or adjacent to the site.
Councillor’s reaction
Councillor David Llewellyn, chair of the Policy, Finance and Resources Committee, said,
“This locally led approach empowers the local community to take ownership of a key seafront asset and shape its future in line with local priorities.
“Under the agreement, the freehold of the Pier Street site will be transferred to Sandown Town Council, subject to the Town Council completing due diligence and adhering to conditions designed to protect essential public services.
“The transfer represents a positive and pragmatic step forward for the site, and we are confident that Sandown Town Council will create new opportunities for community-driven regeneration.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
