A REGENERATION project in Sandown will now be able to brew its own beer, now the Isle of Wight Council has approved planning permission.

Boojum and Snark, a cafe and now cafe/ bar, opened on Sandown High Street thanks to grant funding from the government which aims to regenerate coastal communities.

Plans to add beer production, in a nano-brewery, to the sustainable local business were given the green light by the Isle of Wight Council's planning committee, who unanimously voted in favour.

Ward representative for Sandown North, Cllr Debbie Andre, welcomed the planning application, saying anything that would increase footfall down the lower end of the High Street should be encouraged.

She said: "This venture, which if successful, will greatly add not just to the regeneration of Sandown as a whole but also in the lower High Street.

"This is exactly the kind of enterprise needed to kickstart our town's economy while building up a reputation Island-wide and beyond."

The venue will be able to produce 75 litres of beer in each brew, through the brewing kit now permitted.

In the design and access statement, Boojum and Snark estimate it will only need to brew twice a week to create enough beer for sale on the premises.

A comment from the member of the public said the small business is an excellent example of the new trade needed in Sandown and should be supported.

They said: "I hope it begins to set a pattern and the benchmark for regeneration in the Sandown conservation area."

Five conditions were attached to the planning permission, including strictly sticking to the opening times, waste storage and noise management arrangements.

No objections were received.

Boojum and Snark also provides a micro-museum, hyper-local food offering, gallery and retail space.