Plans to squeeze 4 ‘low-cost’ homes onto land currently used as a garden in East Cowes are facing opposition from neighbours amid concerns over overlooking, highway safety, overdevelopment and Japanese Knotweed.
As previously reported by Island Echo, Penny Downer is seeking planning permission to build 2 pairs of semi-detached chalet bungalows at 109 Old Road.
The development would include parking and a new vehicle access from Oaks Close.
Each home would have a living, kitchen and dining area and a bathroom, with bedrooms above.
However, objections have now been lodged with the Isle of Wight Council ahead of the end of the public consultation period.
East Cowes resident Richard White has raised concerns that the development would result in his property being overlooked.
He said:
“My home, specifically two primary bedrooms and family bathroom, would be overlooked by four new units, through 12 or more windows, by 18-20 people.
Article continues below this advertisement “This is a significant material change from not being overlooked at all. The associated noise and disturbance from these units, vehicles and the subsequent loss of outlook will undoubtedly have a negative effect on me and my family.”
Highway safety has also been raised as an issue, with neighbour Karen Sunderland questioning whether Oaks Close is suitable to provide access to the proposed development.
She said the residential road is relatively narrow and already presents difficulties for larger vehicles.
Concerns have also been raised about Japanese Knotweed present on the site.
Gregory Wilson said:
“Whilst being sprayed, keeping down the vegetation above ground, it will only be a matter of time before it grows again, and has the capability to grow through concrete.”
Mr White has also claimed that the planning application does not adequately address the confirmed presence of the invasive plant.
A preliminary ecological assessment carried out as part of the proposals notes the presence of Japanese Knotweed and says a management strategy would be required for its removal and eradication.
Paul Stack, agent for the applicant, previously said the benefits of providing low-cost housing on an underused urban plot ‘clearly outweigh’ any possible identified harm.
He said:
“The minor and sympathetic scale of the redevelopment ensure that the proposed works will not impact on the amenities of any nearby residential occupiers.
“Advice received from Island Roads following a pre-application request was generally supportive of the highway aspects of the scheme.”
The planning statement submitted with the original application also argues that the development would not adversely affect the character or appearance of the surrounding area.
It says the 2 and 3-bedroom homes would make a small contribution towards meeting the Isle of Wight’s housing needs on an underutilised site.
The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on application 26/01099/FUL runs until 21st September, with a decision currently due by 13th October.
Building in gardens is not on FULL STOP!!!!!