By Isle of Wight Observer
A major expansion is being proposed for the Harrow Lodge Hotel in Shanklin, with plans submitted for a two‑storey vertical extension and an upgrade in accessibility and guest facilities.
The application, prepared by Maplin Engineering on behalf of the applicants, outlines a significant redevelopment of the Palmerston Road hotel, increasing its capacity to 35 bedrooms and introducing new wellness and hospitality spaces. According to the Design and Access Statement, the scheme aims to “extend the existing hotel vertically by adding two additional storeys” while improving inclusivity and modernising the building’s appearance.
A key feature of the proposal is its strong emphasis on accessibility. Three wheelchair‑adapted guest rooms are planned – one on each of the lower ground, ground and first floors – exceeding national minimum standards. A new passenger lift serving all levels and a step‑free entrance ramp form are envisaged to ensure the building is fully accessible throughout.
The plans also include a first‑floor yoga pavilion with full‑height glazing, an expanded café and restaurant at lower ground level, and a larger decked terrace for outdoor seating. Street‑facing rooms would gain new balconies fitted with privacy screens, while the upper floors are designed to be set back from the main façade to reduce the visual impact for neighbouring properties.
Environmental measures include integrated solar panels on the roof, green balcony planting, and design features which will improve daylight and ventilation in the hotel.
The applicant says that the development aligns with Island Plan policies on tourism, design quality and sustainability, and that it “represents a contextually sensitive and future‑focused enhancement to an established coastal hotel.”
The plans are open for public comment until April 21. You can view them via iw.observer/planning-portal under reference 26/00321/FUL.
Tilly Walder