A proposal to turn a former doctor’s surgery in Newport into ‘affordable’ rental accommodation, including a 9-bed HMO, has been withdrawn.
Mr R. Owolabi’s plans, which faced opposition from members of the public, a local council and Island Roads, were to convert the Medina Healthcare buildings at 16 West Street in Newport, which were vacated last year.
In April 2024, Medina Healthcare said the property’s landlord wished to put it up for sale.
Mr Owolabi’s proposal was for a 1-bedroom flat and 3 flats with 2 bedrooms, plus a 9-bed HMO and a ‘substantial’ communal garden for the ‘benefit of all residents’, according to a Design and Access Statement.
A Planning Statement attached to Mr Owolabi’s application said:
“The proposed conversion of the ex-surgery building is suitable to create the indicated accommodation to provide the self-contained flats and HMO rooms and facilities.
“The buildings and grounds subject to this application are owned solely by the applicant so there will be no impediment to developing the site.
“The work generated will increase economic activity which should be beneficial for employment on the Island.”
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A Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council (NCCC) spokesperson said:
“Members feel that this application seems to have many unanswered issues and questions raised by other statutory consultees such as Housing Renewal – there is no license for the proposed HMO for instance, the planning statement and heritage statement are very scant, and the design does not appear to have taken on board the necessary standards for HMOs.
“The amenity space is cramped and there has been no creativity when deciding on the use of the space available.
“Whilst members agree that the principle behind this application is good, there are various concerns around noise, residential parking, and the adverse impact on neighbouring properties’ residential amenity.
“NCCC recommend refusal on the grounds of highways concerns as well as a lack of engagement with the fire service and the Isle of Wight Council HMO officer to ensure safe design for residents and suitability of this site.”
