Westridge Farm campaign finally reaches appeal court

The long-running campaign to save Westridge Farm, in Ryde, has reached the Court of Appeal, marking an important moment in the fight against plans to build 472 houses on the site. Set to be heard next Tuesday and Wednesday (April 8 & 9), the case has been selected to be live-streamed and broadcast on the judiciary’s YouTube channel, allowing residents interested in the case to follow proceedings on-line.

The appeal court hearing is a milestone for the local residents who, following years of campaigning, raised the funds to mount a legal challenge to the Isle of Wight Council. The case reflects frustrations over the planning processes followed, and the perceived dismissal of local concerns. Campaigners argue the development would exacerbate issues like flooding, traffic, and loss of wildlife corridors, while ignoring critical infrastructure needs, such as access roads and GP services.

Supporters also highlight the environmental importance of the site, labelling it the last flood prevention corridor in Ryde. The appeal has attracted plenty of local backing, including more than 600 objections from residents and 5,000 signatures on a petition.

Cllr Michael Lilley, who represents Ryde Appley & Elmfield, described the grassroots effort as a ‘David and Goliath battle,’ pointing out that some residents have sadly died during the long-running battle, but new residents, including some who live in the first stage of the West Acre Park estate have joined the protest. Appley residents, Helen and Brian Sharpe, who since 1969 have lived in a house next to the proposed development site, said: “Our two children were born here and educated at Bishop Lovett School (now Oakfield Primary School) which has recently been saved from closure by strong resident action. The appeal, against the expensive judicial review of the Isle of Wight planning committee’s decision to grant planning permission for the building of 475 houses on the former Westridge Dairy Farm, in Ryde, fills us with hope, but also with anger.”

With three senior Law Lords reviewing the case, the appeal will set an important precedent; however any victory may be short-lived, as developers Captiva Homes have confirmed to the IW Observer that, even if the development approval is overturned, they will very quickly submit another planning application to develop the site.

To watch the proceedings live, visit the Court of Appeal’s Judiciary website via iw.observer/westridge-court-of-appeal-hearing.