The demolition of an eyesore Isle of Wight pub has finally been approved — nearly four years after plans were first submitted.

Now derelict, The Worsley, on Wroxall High Street, will be knocked down and replaced by six houses.

The Isle of Wight Council has granted conditional planning permission for a mix of two and three-bed chalet bungalows and houses.

The public house has stood empty for the last ten years and has deteriorated in condition during that time. The Isle of Wight Council says it has become overgrown and unkempt.

Isle of Wight County Press: The Worsley in Wroxall.The Worsley in Wroxall. (Image: Google Maps)

A development plan was first submitted in November 2019, by E.B.C.S Ltd, but has been revised multiple times since then.

In planning documents, dating to the start of the application process, agent Andrew White Planning Consultancy claimed the site's condition was having a negative impact on the surrounding area.

Isle of Wight County Press:

The consultancy said there were constraints and challenges — including protected trees, sewer pipes and impact on neighbouring properties — which meant the small-scale development was fairly complex.

In its decision notice this week, the Isle of Wight Council said The Worsley has fallen into a worse state of repair and it is of public benefit to demolish it and redevelop the site, improving its appearance and protecting and enhancing the character of the village.

There are 16 conditions. Among them: A method statement must be agreed before development can start, explaining how the site will be cleared and maintained; a contamination study must be carried out; and development must start within three years.