4 FLATS AND 2 SEMIS PLANNED TO SIT ALONGSIDE SMALLER TOYMASTER SHOP

Toymaster in Ryde wants to reduce the size of its shop and build housing under new plans lodged with the Isle of Wight Council. The brand has long been a staple on Union Street, including selling school uniforms and sports kits, but its current model is ‘no longer viable’ so is looking to reduce the tradeable floor space by 60sqm. Planning documents submitted to County Hall suggests a smaller shop would create ‘a more secure retail business’, following the impact of online shopping and lower footfall. Part of the rear of the existing shop, an area currently used for storage, could be demolished to make way for a pair of semi-detached 2-bed houses. The owner, Mr Young, also wants to build housing fronting onto Union Road and convert upstairs stock rooms, a staff room and office space into 4 flats. The proposal retains a shop area, but one that is ‘a more financially viable option’. The front of the building, on Union Street, would remain largely unchanged, however there would be a new door, providing access to the flats. You can view the plans, 24/00165/LBC and 23/02258/FUL on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 1st March. In April 2023, the company closed its Shanklin store and amalgamated its business in Ryde.