Bid to attract tourists by revamping site
Planning application submitted for public realm project in East Cowes
The proposal, submitted by ERMC Ltd on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council aims to enhance and give a boost to the area, bringing in people both local to East Cowes and those who live further afield. The proposals seek to allow the East Cowes Town Council and Isle of Wight Council to improve the utilised outdoor space of local importance.
Details of the application include improvements to the Southern Water Pump Station building by reinstating a fully accessible WC and changing room and transforming the undercroft area under the Columbine Prom building to provide a naturally ventilated, secure, and useable public space.
Improvements to the surrounding gardens that support flood prevention are proposed along with provision of an interactive space to engage with nature, and the addition of two multipurpose event spaces with added seating in an amphitheatre design are also planned.
It is anticipated that by improving the green space, dwell space, modernising the pump station and creating a useable ‘under the prom’ space, the area will be able to better serve East Cowes residents as well as people from further afield, providing an inviting space for the community and visitors alike.
Consultation
Karl Love, councillor for East Cowes said: “a very big community effort has taken place in arriving at this point and I thank everyone who engaged in this process, and Town Councils for their contributions.”
Julie Jones-Evans, cabinet member for Levelling Up, Business Development, Regeneration and Tourism said: “We’ve reached an exciting and pivotal stage of the Venture Quays public realm improvements, after extensive local consultation the scheme is now ready for public and planning scrutiny, hopefully leading to approval.
“East Cowes town council representatives have been with us every step of the way in coming up with the designs, following extensive public consultation last year.
“I’d encourage all those who are interested to take a look and use the opportunity to comment. It’s all very helpful feedback.”
PICTURED: The area involved for the public realm project at Albany, East Cowes, on the Isle of Wight
