By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
A proposal to paint the front of a Freshwater antique shop with a “fantastic” hand-painted mural has been approved.
Planners have accepted Luke Stagg’s advertising application to paint Odds & Sods, on Afton Road, with a ‘seaside and vintage theme’, saying it will enhance the ‘local and wider street scene’.
The business opened in December last year with stock including ‘second-hand furniture, vintage treasures and retro finds’.
Mr Stagg’s application form said: “The mural will depict a seaside and vintage theme, reflecting the nature of the business (antiques, retro and house clearance) and the coastal setting of the Isle of Wight.
“The artwork will include visual elements such as antique furniture, vintage objects, and local maritime imagery (e.g. a lighthouse and sailing boat).”
Freshwater Parish Council supported the bid with the condition that the mural is maintained.
One Afton Road resident was also in favour: “I think the proposed mural is a fantastic idea, supporting the coastal image of the town, brightening and updating an otherwise fairly drab and dated building.
“I think support must be shown for anyone trying to create a new business and trying to support and fit in the local environment.”
Officers said: “The current frontage is block painted green and whilst it sits innocuously within the street scene officers consider the mural would be an attractive addition with artwork that would brighten up a somewhat bland frontage.”
Six conditions were added to the consent to meet planning policy and legal requirements.
Isle of Wight Observer