‘Voluntary co-operation’ is route for Winter Gardens

A significant number of the 19 remedial actions issued by the Isle of Wight Council to restore Ventnor’s Winter Gardens remain incomplete, according to an update shared at a public meeting held at Better Days Café on Monday.

Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, told attendees that “further work” was still needed to bring the Art Deco-style landmark up to an “acceptable standard.” While some progress has been made – particularly on the western elevation, which has been cleaned and selectively rendered – many of the required improvements remain outstanding.

The council began a pre-Section 215 process in April, with Kevin Sussmilch, of The Hambrough Group, which owns the building. The process identified urgent repairs including re-rendering, crack filling, painting, and roof restoration.

Ms Dix said the council is not yet pursuing a formal Section 215 notice, which would legally compel the owner to act, but warned that enforcement could escalate “rapidly” if progress stalls. “We have to work through the planning enforcement process in a way that’s deemed reasonable and can be defended in court,” she explained. She added that voluntary co-operation remains the preferred route. “We’ve seen some positive steps, including clearing debris, rubbish, and weeds,” she said. “But the overall condition still falls short, and further work is required.”

The council says it will continue monitoring the site closely and will not hesitate to take formal action if necessary.