By Louise Hill - BBC LDR
A former Isle of Wight care home could be converted into a house of multiple occupation (HMO), with 22 bedrooms.
Bluebell House, on Mitchell Avenue, Ventnor, has been closed since November 2022.
In a letter recently submitted to the Isle of Wight Council, Gail Falloon-Phillips, director of In Safe Hands Home Care, which operated Bluebell House, said the building is not fit for purpose as a care home, due to an untenable situation with a shortage of care personnel and a lack of funding.
She said the property was on the market but there had been a ‘discouraging response’.
Now, Terraform Development has put forward new proposals to the Island’s planning authority.
Each bedroom would have a sink and 16 rooms could have ensuite toilets.
Residents would share six bathrooms and one shower room, as well as three kitchen and dining areas and three lounge areas.
Flats on the top floor of the building, previously used as accommodation for managers and owners, will be opened up, and included as part of the HMO.
Planning documents on behalf of the Hertfordshire-based developer said the proposed use would re purpose a large empty property, providing good quality accommodation for those in need of homes.
Minor external changes are also proposed, with a new window and door on the front of the building.
You can view the plans, 24/00226/FUL, on the council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until April 2.
Press Release