PLANS to site former shipping containers at a small-holding near Newport and turn them into luxury self-catering accommodation have been lodged with planning bosses at the Isle of Wight Council.

The scheme would see the five containers located on the Little Sandhills five acre smallholding along Forest Road, Newport if it is given the green light by members of the Isle of Wight Council's planning committee.

The proposed holiday accommodation is said to be 'highly unique' and will be marketed on the basis of escapism, integration with the natural environment and individuality, according to the application which is being lodged on behalf of the applicants by the Andrew White Planning Consultancy.

The area is on the north side of Forest Road around 375 meters east of the junction with Whitehouse Road.

The double unit converted storage containers will either by 'L' or 'T' shaped and are designed to accommodate a maximum of four persons in the form of a double or twin room with a pull out sofa in the living area.

Each container will include a defined area of timber decking around its perimeter and guests will be encouraged to park their vehicles within a communal parking facility during their stay, according to Andrew White's report.

The containers will be shipped on to the site onto a hard core base which will have railways sleepers on top to house the containers.

An existing Christmas tree plantation on the site would provide screening.

An example of a container converted to holiday accommodation already exists in Cumbria, according to the report.

Each container will be completely self-contained and will also have a log burner. As part of the conversion, the containers will be fitted with windows, doors and insulation and will be fitted internally with plasterboard or timber panelling.

Internal fixtures and fittings will reflect the 'quirky' external appearance combining industrial 'chic' with a homely 'vintage' feel according to the report.

The report says: "The proposed converted containers would mainly appeal to couples searching for a quieter rural based break, perhaps for that feeling of 'escapism' and or wishing to participate in outdoor pursuits such as walking, cycling etc.

"It is hoped that over time, links can be developed with the walking and cycling festivals.

"The site is ideally placed whereby visitors can combine a rural environment but with accessibility to public transport and the nearby towns of Cowes and Newport."