CONTROVERSIAL plans for a radical re-shaping of the Medina Yard site in Cowes which includes hundreds of homes are set to be discussed by planning bosses next Tuesday (March 13).

The huge redevelopment will provide up to 535 residential units and up to 18,630 square metres of space for businesses, as well as new public space if the scheme is given the green light by members of the IW Council's planning committee.

Other works will include landscaping, the re-construction of the sea wall and a new public slipway.

Some buildings on the site including part of the former J.Samuel White building will be knocked-down during the controversial redevelopment project of the 5.5 hectare site which has attracted 98 objections.

Cowes Town Council has criticised the loss of employment land at the site and has also said it is 'critical' that deep water access to the River Medina should be retained.

The first stage of the project, for which full planning permission is sought, would see up to 256 residential units built and up to 460 square metres of retail, financial and food and drink outlets created.

There would also be up to 242 basement car parking spaces created and up to 287 cycle parking spaces created, together with access to new public routes, a piazza and landscaping, as well as refurbishment of the former J Samuel White offices and the town's iconic Hammerhead Crane.

Outline planning permission is also sought for a further 279 residential units, up to 631 square metres of retail, financial and food and drink space and up to 616 square metres of space for public/museum use.

There would also be marine training accommodation and up to 14,549 square metres of marine industrial space in the second phase.

Planning officers are recommending the approval of the scheme.

For the full story, please see this Friday's County Press.