By Isle of Wight Observer
A planning application, submitted to the Isle of Wight Council to convert part of the former Central Hotel, in Ventnor, into a residential flat, could result in the loss of a vital charity café that supports hundreds of vulnerable people.
The former hotel, at 64 High Street, has seen many changes over the years, once offering 12 bedrooms and bar areas. In July 2023, permission was granted to convert the building into six rooms for individual occupation and a townhouse. The ground floor bar area was reclassified for town centre use (Class E) and is now home to the Better Days Community Café and Hub.
The building’s owner is now seeking to change the use of the events room, situated at the back of the café, into a single flat. The proposal has already drawn objections from neighbours and volunteers.
Kirsty Chapman, who runs the café, said: “We feed hungry people, and signpost to mental health services. Some of our staff are autistic and we accommodate them by keeping music low. Firstly, I oppose the noise and disruption it will cause. I’ve worked hard for four years to set up a safe, warm space for people.
“Secondly, the room is used for a guitar club once a week, and I’ve been looking for funding to make a Youth Hub with this room.
There is no way the building site next door won’t have an impact on my staff and customers – to the point that I will probably be forced to close.”
Other objectors argue the plan adds no value to Ventnor, removing one of the few remaining community spaces. One said that he knew the claim that the room is currently unused to be untrue, as he uses it to deliver a weekly arts class.
Comments can be made via iw.observer/planning-portal until January 14 under reference 25/01358/FUL.
