Owners of closed 'unsafe' Isle of Wight hotel appealing

They are appealing the decision that closed the Melbourne Ardenlea on Queens Road and hope to be in a position to reopen shortly.

Police officers accompanied Regulatory Services officials from the Isle of Wight Council on Friday evening, July 2, to forcibly close the premises.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: “The hotel was planning to open following the period of lockdown and it was alleged that since the premises had been closed conditions had deteriorated to an extent that it was unsafe and unhygienic.

"Investigations into these allegations have resulted in the service of prohibition notices served under The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 as there was reason to believe that the gas and electrical installation and appliances were unsafe and use of which could result in a risk of serious personal injury.

"In addition, a number of other areas of improvement and remedial works have been required to ensure that the premises complied with relevant legal requirements."

A hotel spokesperson exclusively told the County Press: "We believe the prohibition notices served are groundless and will be appealed.

"The hotel had already provided all the certifications to the Isle of Wight Council including the gas appliances certificate issued by a competent and Corgi registered commercial gas plumber, along with the satisfactory electrical installation report in June 2021.

"The hotel has always striven to maintain highest safety standards.

"We are issuing an appeal and are confident the prohibition notices served will be set aside.

"We hope to be in a position to reopen shortly and thank our loyal satisfied guests and staff for their support."

According to its Trip Advisor profile, the Melbourne Ardenlea hotel provides 'an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience' and 'offers an array of amenities designed for travellers.'

Recent reviews have criticised the hotel for last-minute cancellations of bookings from holidaymakers.