THE BAY PLACE PLAN
Bay Area Place Plan is a strategic framework for Sandown, Shanklin, and Lake on the Isle of Wight, developed by Feria Urbanism with Støriie and The Place Bureau. It is not a tourism or economic strategy alone but a holistic vision for regeneration, community wellbeing, and sustainable growth.
Purpose & Context
Seeks to influence policy and delivery in the Bay Area, changing both internal and external perceptions.
Developed through an extensive Three Day ‘Think Space’ (July 2023) with over 250 participants, forming the core evidence base.
Aims to align local needs with those of Sandown Town Council, Lake Parish Council, Shanklin Town Council, and Isle of Wight Council.
Core Structure
Principles & Values
Framework for decision-making, emphasizing:
START SMALL
& SNOWBALL
Pilot projects first
CONNECTIVITY
Shared brand, unified wayfinding, collaboration
PEOPLE
POWER
Community-led action
& civic imagination
YOUTH & INTERGENERATIONAL WISDOM
PROJECT
SCALE
Quick wins, medium investments, flagship projects
Spatial Strategy
Proposes how land, infrastructure, and public spaces should evolve, including seafront enhancements, revitalisation of derelict buildings, and improved connectivity.
THEMES & TOPICS
Detailed focus areas (arts, tourism, sustainability, health, housing, etc.) drawn from community engagement.
Aims & Objectives
Community Empowerment
Ongoing engagement to foster ownership.
Strategic
Thinking
Long-term regeneration vision with sustainability at its core.
Economic
Growth
Boost tourism, local businesses, and job creation.
Infrastructure Investment
Roads, coastal defences, transport, and utilities.
Quality
of Life
Public spaces, recreation, climate resilience.
Funding
Support
A clear, evidence-based plan to unlock grants and attract private investment.
Community Priorities
Keep: Natural beauty, heritage, arts & culture, tourism appeal, community spirit.
Leave Behind: Derelict buildings, council-public disconnect, apathy, tired high streets, poor visitor facilities.
Future Aspirations: Climate resilience, better transport, more youth opportunities, eco-tourism, revitalised high streets, and stronger social cohesion.
The Bay Area Place Plan provides a unified roadmap for regeneration across Sandown, Lake, and Shanklin. It blends community input with strategic planning to improve economic vitality, social wellbeing, and environmental sustainability while preserving the distinct identities of the three towns. A mix of small wins and flagship projects aims to secure investment, boost tourism, enhance infrastructure, and build a resilient, vibrant coastal community.
