Isle of Wight housing plan on Newport outskirts re-emerges

Gallantgreen’s hybrid plans for housing south of Forest Road, Newport, with associated access and infrastructure as well as a garage demolition proposal have been readvertised.

The scheme, which also includes an outline application for residential development including means of access and open space, relates to land west of Hornbeam Close, the Willows Aspen Close and north of Sylvan Drive.

There has previously been significant opposition to proposed development at the site, including from Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council and county councillors Ray Redrup and Joe Lever.

The council was told of concerns such as a negative impact on public rights of ways, a lack of affordable housing, harm to wildlife habitats, flood risk, disquiet over increased traffic and sewage overcapacity.

Gallantgreen’s agent, BCM, said seven of the homes included in the application already have consent in a recent letter to planners.

A submitted ecological impact assessment from E3S Consulting on Gallantgreen’s behalf meanwhile said the proposal will not have a negative impact on the site and its surrounding habitats, species or ecosystems.

It would instead provide opportunities to ‘ecologically enhance’ the site for the benefit of wildlife, the document said.

County Hall’s public consultation on application 23/01410/FUL is live until May 18. A final decision date has not yet been publicised.