A derelict former royal barracks on the Isle of Wight looks set to be transformed into an education and training facility, as part of a £5.8 million regeneration plan for East Cowes.
The Victoria Barracks on the esplanade has been earmarked as a new base for UKSA.
Approved for new lease of life
The Isle of Wight council’s planning committee unanimously voted to give the building its new lease of life after Cllr Chris Jarman said it was an uncontroversial application.
Concerns were raised about the back of the building, which currently has a single-storey extension jutting above a brick wall and was branded ‘unsightly’.
Cllr Geoff Brodie said the proposals did not address the problem and proposed side extensions on the building which would be in line with the existing building were not necessary and would detract from the characterful building.
Churchman: Doesn’t want to see a ‘dreadful monstrosity of glass’
Cllr Vanessa Churchman also thought the back of the building was extremely ugly and didn’t want to see a ‘dreadful monstrosity of glass’ — as roof lights are to be replaced and windows replaced.
She said,
“It might not be a listed building, but it is beautiful and it has been ruined enough.”
Brodie: Very disappointed with the plans
Cllr Brodie said he had no problem with the proposed future of the building, but was very disappointed with the plans for what has been a very attractive building.
He said the barracks look dreadful now and he did not think it would look much better in the future.
Brodie: A missed opportunity
Cllr Brodie thought it was a missed opportunity to enhance the building and reach its full capacity.
Planning officers said the positives of the scheme needed to be balanced against the perceived negatives — like the back of the building.
Built to accommodate Queen Victoria’s troops
The barracks were built in 1872 to accommodate Queen Victoria’s troops and have most recently been used as a set for a TV show but stood derelict in recent years.
Jones-Evans: Just one element of wide regeneration
Cabinet member for regeneration, Cllr Julie Jones-Evans said it was just one element of the wider East Cowes Waterfront improvement strategy and along with other applications due to be considered at a later date would deliver on the Levelling Up promise for the town.
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
