The historic East Dene estate will have grand new entrance gates and a footbridge installed as part of a wider restoration vision.
County Hall has accepted Mr and Mrs Saunders’ plans for reinstated timber and metal gates between existing stone piers and a bridge over a rocky ravine within the grounds of East Dene in Bonchurch.
The Grade II* Regency villa was once home to Victorian poet Algernon Charles Swinburne and frequented by the author Charles Dickens.
Submitted plans will support the ongoing rescue and refurbishment of the storied landmark and represents stage one of a phased plan to restore the estate’s landscape, according to a Dutch Landscape Studio Design, Access, Planning and Heritage statement.
Luke Smith, the applicants’ agent, said:
“The reinstatement of the gates at the primary entrance of the site will set the scene for the mystery, fantasy and fun of the landscape and architectural design beyond, enhancing its setting and significance.
“The bridge would be constructed of stonework to match the original design.
Article continues below this advertisement “This element would reintroduce an element of fun and fantasy intended by its Victorian designers, creating an intimate and mysterious route through the landscape, ultimately leading to the surprise and delight of the Church of St Boniface to the west and enhancing the pleasure ground aesthetic.”
The Isle of Wight Gardens Trust supported the application in a letter to planners and pointed to the Saunders’ aims to safeguard ‘East Dene’s unique character, conserving its gardens, structures and woodland walks, and re-establishing the spirit of beauty and variety that has inspired generations of visitors’.
Ventnor Town Council also backed the plans:
“It is appreciated that the owners are sympathetically restoring this Grade Two listed building of significant importance to Bonchurch.”
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County Hall’s decision report for proposal 25/01570/FUL said the design of the gates and bridge would enhance the gateway’s appearance, the setting of the listed buildings, the registered park and garden and the Bonchurch Conservation Area.
