Plans for Yaverland sea pool take major step forward

Sandown Bay could become home to a unique coastal attraction as Isle of Wight Sea Pool secures council backing to seek funding.

A proposal to build an eco-friendly tidal sea pool at Yaverland has taken a significant step forward following support from the Isle of Wight Council’s policy, finance and resources committee.

The Isle of Wight Sea Pool group, which first approached the council in 2023, has been developing the concept for over 18 months.

Their vision is to create a sustainable, environmentally integrated sea pool that would offer safe, accessible swimming and leisure opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The proposed location is a 70-metre stretch of council-owned foreshore between two existing groynes near Culver Parade, next to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary. 

At last night's committee meeting, councillors agreed to issue a non-binding Letter of Intent, allowing Isle of Wight Sea Pool to begin seeking external funding.

The letter confirms the council’s support in principle for the project and its willingness to consider leasing the land, subject to planning approval, a robust business case, and further public consultation.

Council officers stressed that the Letter of Intent does not commit the authority to any financial contribution or formal agreement at this stage. However, it does mark a key milestone in the project’s development.

Councillor Phil Jordan, Isle of Wight Council leader and committee chair, said: "This is a visionary project that aligns with our goals for sustainable tourism and community wellbeing.

"The sea pool has the potential to become a landmark attraction for the Island, and I’m pleased we’re enabling the group to take the next steps toward making it a reality."

Councillor Ian Ward, local member for Sandown South, said: "The sea pool proposal is an exciting opportunity to bring something truly unique to our Island — something that supports health, wellbeing, tourism and the regeneration of Sandown.

"I’m pleased to see it progressing and look forward to further engagement with the community as plans develop."

Photo shows the sea pool at Bude, Cornwall. GETTY IMAGES