Proposal to Convert Former Doctor's Surgery into Affordable Rentals Withdrawn

A proposal to transform a vacant doctor's surgery on the Isle of Wight into 'affordable' rental accommodation, including a nine-bedroom HMO, has been withdrawn. The plans, submitted by Mr R. Owolabi, aimed to convert the Medina Healthcare buildings at 16 West Street in Newport, which were vacated last year after the property's landlord put it up for sale. The proposed development would have consisted of a one-bedroom flat, three flats with two bedrooms, a nine-bed HMO, and a communal garden. However, the project faced opposition from local authorities, the public, and Island Roads, citing concerns over noise, residential parking, and the impact on neighboring properties.

Key Takeaways:

• Mr. R. Owolabi's proposal to convert the former doctor's surgery into affordable rentals, including a nine-bedroom HMO, has been withdrawn.
• The development would have consisted of a one-bedroom flat, three flats with two bedrooms, a nine-bed HMO, and a communal garden.
• Opposition came from the local council, the public, and Island Roads, citing concerns over noise, residential parking, and the impact on neighboring properties.
• The Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council raised concerns over the lack of a license for the proposed HMO, inadequate planning statements, and insufficient consideration of HMO standards.
• The community council also expressed concerns over the cramped amenity space and potential adverse impact on neighboring properties' residential amenity.
• The proposal's withdrawal was likely due to the strong opposition from local stakeholders and the availability of alternative housing options.

Statistics:

• 16 West Street in Newport is the location of the former doctor's surgery, which was vacated last year.
• The proposed development would have had a total of 12 self-contained flats, including a one-bedroom flat and three flats with two bedrooms.
• The nine-bed HMO would have been a major component of the proposal, but its lack of license and inadequate planning raised significant concerns.
• 9: The number of beds in the proposed HMO.
• 12: The number of self-contained flats proposed for the development, including a one-bedroom flat and three flats with two bedrooms.

Sources:

• Byline: Rufus Pickles
• Medina Healthcare (April 2024)
• Design and Access Statement (submitted with Mr. Owolabi's application)
• Planning Statement (submitted with Mr. Owolabi's application)
• Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council spokesperson