STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES COULD BE ON THE CARDS AT THE ISLE OF WIGHT COLLEGE

Buildings at the Isle of Wight College could be torn down in the new year to make way for state-of-the-art facilities. Construction crews on behalf of the college are seeking prior approval to demolish 2 of its older buildings, on Dodnor Lane, which have been home to its student hub, hair salon and main entrance. The college was awarded money in 2021 by the Department for Education, to “address some of the worst condition sites in the country”. It was one of 16 colleges to receive part of a £1.5 billion fund to “significantly reduce the proportion of college estates not fit for purpose or in unsatisfactory condition”, according to the government. Planning documents submitted to the Isle of Wight Council say the new 4,660m² building to be built on the cleared space, would accommodate a range of subjects and support the college’s special education needs provision. If approved, the work could be started in January, carried out by Wates Construction, and be finished by the end of May. The 2 buildings, FEAA and FEAE, are made of brick and up to two storeys in height. The demolition could be done in 2 parts, with a soft internal strip of the buildings done first to leave just the structure standing. Monitoring stations could be set up to keep track of noise, dust and vibration levels during working hours. Some small trees and shrubs could be lost due to their position, close to one of the buildings. You can view the prior approval notice, 23/02094/11BPA, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 15th December.