By Isle of Wight Observer
A fresh planning application has been submitted to rebuild a former boat store at Horestone Point, near Priory Bay, after earlier proposals were refused.
The applicants hope the new bid will end a two-year planning dispute over the coastal site, where a boat store stood for more than 40 years before being lost to the elements. The remains of the original foundations are still in place on the wooded shoreline.
Previous applications were rejected due to concerns about Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, rather than the design itself. Planning documents state the latest submission follows discussions with Natural England, which have clarified that the proposed building would not sit within protected ancient woodland boundaries.
A Planning Inspector had previously concluded the scheme would not harm the woodland and could provide ecological benefits through a Woodland Management Plan, including the removal of diseased trees and longer-term site management.
The proposed structure would be built from Island-grown larch and positioned over the existing foundations to minimise disturbance to tree roots and surrounding habitat. No paints or potentially harmful treatments are planned.
To meet biodiversity requirements, the applicants have secured off-site habitat units from a nearby farm.
Public response to the latest plans has been largely supportive so far, with comments praising the scale and design of the building.
Public comments are open until March 20 via iw.observer/planning-portal using reference 26/00106/FUL.
