By Isle of Wight Observer
A scaffolding firm has applied to expand and formalise its operations at Poleclose Farm Barns, following an enforcement investigation into the use of the site.
The application, submitted by Andrew White Planning Consultancy on behalf of Blake Ashton, seeks permission to extend an existing storage yard off Forest Road and create a new access track. Part of the site already has lawful use for storage, but the business has grown beyond its original footprint.
Concerns raised by nearby residents focus on noise from handling scaffold poles and increased traffic along Poleclose Lane, a narrow route also used by walkers and horse riders.
Objections cite highway safety issues and the impact on the Public Right of Way that runs along the lane.
To address these concerns, the proposal includes a new private track running along the western boundary of the site, linking directly to Forest Road. The applicant says this would divert commercial vehicles away from Poleclose Lane and reduce disturbance to neighbouring properties.
Planning documents state the firm requires a central Island base to support work on construction projects, including large housing developments. The scheme also includes retention of a portacabin for staff facilities.
Supporting reports covering noise and ecology have been submitted with the application. The site is located among other commercial and agricultural uses, which the applicant argues makes it suitable for continued business activity.
The applicants have recently submitted a noise impact assessment, which concludes that with measures put in place to reduce noise for a proposed holiday accommodation conversion “operational noise does not constitute any barrier to approval of planning permission.”
The documents are available for inspection via iw.council/planning-portal under reference 25/01566/FUL.