By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
A developer has withdrawn a scheme to convert a former public toilets block in the middle of a village following a backlash from a parish council.
The applicant withdrew a planning application to turn the Wroxall Public Convenience building on Wroxall’s Grove Road into a one-bedroom flat after Wroxall Parish Council filed an objection.
The proposed flat included an open plan kitchen, living and dining space, a bedroom and a shower room.
A Design and Access Statement written agent, CLArchitects, said: “Although modest, this development would help in achieving the council housing targets using previously developed land.
“The proposal re-purposes and returns the vacant building into use providing a functional, sustainable and safe environment in the settlement boundary.
“The development will enhance the site by providing a garden area which will offer a more attractive setting within residential surroundings.
“Due to its size and setting, the dwelling will be at a lower end of market housing which will create a more affordable option for privately owning a house.”
Wroxall Parish Council clerk Jackie Gallop said: “Wroxall Parish Council wish to object to this application.
“The property has already been converted to a flat and we feel that the planning officers should visit the site as these works were done without building regulations.
“It is a very small site with no parking and the area is not really big enough to be a property.
“The application also states that conversion to a property was previously agreed. The last application for this was refused on July 2, 2015.”
Isle of Wight Observer