A new multi-use community hub could replace office space in a historic East Cowes building, known by locals as the ‘building on stilts’.
County Hall has proposed a change of use of the Prom Building on Columbine Road, with associated changes and an extension.
Its first floor is currently used as a design suite, general office and meeting room space for Wight Shipyard, according to the council’s agent, ERMC.
An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said the structure was being ‘brought forward’ as part of the government’s Levelling Up Fund Round One grant. They said discussions with East Cowes Town Council on the use of the space for the community are ‘ongoing’.
ERMC said:
“The building is now intended to be separated from the current tenancy and instead via this change of use application be utilised as a public and community use space.
“To allow this to proceed, additional ground floor area under the prom is required to provide an entrance reception and onward vertical circulation via a platform lift and staircase to the upper floor.
“The outside space provides opportunity for safe storage of heritage assets and interpretation or a sheltered exhibit and event space.
Article continues below this advertisement “The internal layout is subject to the final community use requirements and a future developed brief. Some residual space could be used for staff or amenity, and associated toilet provision will be provided.”
ERMC suggested the building could be used as a cafe, museum, event or performance space or meeting place.
In a joint statement, the Isle of Wight Society and East Cowes Heritage Centre said they welcome the opportunity County Hall is taking to encourage the use of the Prom Building.
They said:
“The building, often called the Building on Stilts by local people, will be sensitively restored and provide an excellent amenity for the community.
“Since the need to use props to support the superstructure in lieu of restoration, the public have been deprived of the undercroft. With this proposal, the old Design Office above, with its wonderful views, will also come into public use.
“We are sure it will be a most welcome and well used space by the community.”
The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on application 25/01620/FUL ends on 12th December and a decision has been scheduled for 1st January.
This transformation will undoubtedly cost a high six figure sum, considering the parlous state of the IOW finances who is going to pay for it.