By Carole Dennett
A planning application has been submitted for a glamping development on land off Briddlesford Road, near Robin Hill adventure park, proposing four two-bedroom timber glamping pods, the use of an existing two-bedroom static caravan for holiday accommodation, and a range of associated facilities.
The scheme, designed by glamping experts, Glampitect of Edinburgh, includes a new access and exit onto Briddlesford Road, parking for up to six vehicles, bike and bin storage, a utility hut and a communal sauna. The pods would sit on ground screws rather than traditional foundations, reducing ground disturbance, and each would have private decking and a hot tub.
The caravan has been used as temporary living accommodation while carrying out work on a nearby residence, but is now proposed to be rented out to tourists.
The 0.4 hectare site (almost an acre) lies within the Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly AONB). The design statement says the development has been shaped to minimise visual and environmental impact, with low level motion sensor lighting, no rooflights, and natural external materials intended to blend into the landscape.
Existing boundary trees and hedgerows would be retained, with new native planting, wildflower meadow areas and habitat features such as bat and bird boxes added throughout the site. A small section of hedging would be removed to create the new exit, but replacement planting is proposed.
A new sewage treatment plant would serve the pods and caravan, with treated water pumped back to irrigate the meadow. All hard surfaces would be permeable to avoid increasing flood risk.
According to the planning agents, the site would operate year round as a peaceful, nature focused retreat aimed at couples and small families. Party groups would not be permitted, and the operators would live in the adjacent dwelling to manage the site.
The statement argues the development would support the Island’s tourism economy, offering high quality accommodation within walking distance of Robin Hill and close to bus routes linking to Newport, Ryde, and Sandown.
The plans can be found under reference 25/01755/FUL via iw.observer/planning-portal. Comments are invited until February 13.
Mal Butler