MP Bob Seely is seeking answers from the government as to its plans for the former Camp Hill prison site which has remained empty and undeveloped since March 2013.
Mr Seely has repeatedly called for the Ministry of Justice to transfer the site to the Isle of Wight Council which would free it up for the construction of affordable housing. It is estimated that the site could provide up to 1200 new homes.
To date, a decision on the future use of the site has not yet been made, however, the Island’s MP said he now understands the government may be reassessing its position on the site.
In a letter to Prisons Minister, Edward Argar, Mr Seely said: “I once again urge you to ensure that the site is used for affordable housing. I also urge you to expedite a community or Isle of Wight Council bid for the site.
“We need land for affordable housing, and we are getting overwhelmed by unsustainable greenfield development. Camp Hill is a vital strategic site for the Island and will ease current pressures on the Island’s green spaces.
“If you are considering marketing the site, I would like to ask for an urgent meeting with you now, so that we can look at other options.”
Mr Seely said he will provide an update once a response has been received from the Minister.
