A significant urban brownfield site located within walking distance of Cowes town centre which occupies a highly prominent stretch of river frontage at the mouth of the Medina Estuary.

On Tuesday 27 March 2018, following a significant community and stakeholder engagement process, the Medina Yard Regeneration team was delighted to secure from the Isle of Wight Planning Committee resolution to grant planning permission (subject to a s.106 agreement).

Since 2013, the Medina Yard Regeneration Team has been working closely with the local community to develop proposals for the regeneration of the site. Following extensive consultation, the Harrison Trust has submitted a ‘hybrid’ planning application and an application for Listed Building Consent to the Isle of Wight Council for the comprehensive regeneration of Medina Yard – the island’s most important urban brownfield site. With the historic crane as an anchor point for the regeneration, the scheme will create a sustainable, waterfront neighbourhood for the community of Cowes and wider island to enjoy.

The 5 ha site has a long association with shipbuilding and was formerly part of the J Samuel White boat yard. Since the yard closure in 2002, the site has operated as a multi let business, workshop and industrial estate, with part of the site also utilised for boat storage. The yard is now experiencing ever increasing levels of vacancy and dilapidation, with a number of the existing buildings and the on-site infrastructure no longer fit for purpose.

The Harrison Trust, who owns the site, appointed JTP to develop proposals for the regeneration of the site.

Project Delivery

– Extensive community participation in the creation of a Vision Masterplan through a Community Planning Weekend.

– A plan for a vibrant residential-led development supporting a range of business, marine and leisure related uses.

– A new public waterfront promenade allowing access to the River Medina, an amenity currently lacking in the Cowes central area.

– Creation of a ‘walkable neighbourhood’ that connects the waterfront to neighbouring streets and Cowes town centre with improved cycle and pedestrian accesibility.

– Proposals for studio and workshop space to attract new start ups, creative industries and employment opportunities creating a neighbourhood with vitality during working hours.

– Incorporation and enhancement of the site’s shipbuilding heritage including the refurbishment of the iconic Hammerhead Crane as the focal point of a new, high quality public square.

– Ongoing community forums informed masterplan development.