IW Councillor's Report, January 2025

 

 HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Surgeries.

 

4:30-5pm, Monday 6^th January, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 7^th January, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am, Thursday 9^th January, Gurnard Press and Bistro, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30am-12:30pm, Wednesday 15^th January, Eegon's, 85 High Street, Cowes. (New Time)

10:30-11am, Thursday 23^rd January, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.  

 11:30am-12pm, Thursday 30^th January, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Cowes Primary School.

 

Proposals to close Cowes Primary School and five other schools were considered by Cabinet last month. Because of close links through friends and family with Cowes Primary School and support that I gave to parents and staff, following advice, as Cabinet Member I was unable to attend or vote due to having a disqualifying conflict of interest.

 

At the meeting, only Godshill Primary School did not have a closure notice issued.  The reason for this was due to promises made to parents when Chillerton School closed and the fact that in this part of the Island, parents would be required to travel more than three miles to the nearest school.

 

The School closure proposals will be discussed by an Extraordinary Meeting of Full Council later this month.

 

Sustainable Drainage Solutions (SUDs), Gurnard.

 

Work is due to start on proposals to reduce surface water and its impact on outflows and bathing water. This is due to start on 13^th January, and was subject to consultation at an open event last month held at Gurnard Village Hall.  Thank you to everybody who came along, chatted to me and fed back their views to Southern Water’s Team.

 

Proposals include the creation of parking on permeable bays and the creation of rain gardens, and will be put in place in Worsley Road, Albert Road, Solent View Road and Woodvale Road.

 

Improving Pedestrian and Cycling provisions through LCWIPS.

 

The IW Council are consulting on potential pedestrian and cycle provisions within Cowes, Gurnard and other areas. Proposals are likely to be prioritised should money become available through the planning process to encourage residents to travel by alternatives to the car. The consultation continues until 17^th January. For details visit: https://www.iow.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/planning/local-plan/supplementary-planning-document-consultations/

 

So far, a number of residents have contacted me concerning the potential for the conflict between pedestrians and cyclists in Cowes High Street and Shooters Hill (currently where a vehicular prohibition remains in place after 10am).

 

To clarify the position, a representative from the consultants posted the following to me:

 

Over the last few weeks I have read many posts referencing the imminent installation of a cycle lane in Cowes High Street. It has been a very frustrating read because, as one of the authors of the document being cited, I know that much of what is being said is incorrect.

So, I thought it would be useful to provide some factual content. I am doing this in an entirely personal capacity with the sole purpose of enabling a proper, informed debate. It is worth saying that everything I am about to write is also contained within the document itself. I would urge everyone to read the full documents so as to be able to have a well-informed view of the matter.

The route in question is in a document called the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) for the Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood area. The route shown through Cowes town centre is part of a proposed route that would connect the end of the current cycleway on Arctic Rd, and the Floating Bridge, to/through the town centre and onto the sea front. The status, and alignment, of this route is currently just that: a proposal.

If, at some undetermined point in the future, this proposal is taken forward to the next stage and worked up into a more concrete project, then there would be a whole new consultation process surrounding that particular project, enabling people to have their say about the detail, alignment and design of such a route. The feasibility of a route (both in terms of the technical aspect and public acceptability) would need to be thoroughly established before any bids for funding could be considered.

In answer to some of the misinformation I have seen in recent weeks (including in a flier posted in the last few days which appears to have been authored anonymously), I can advise that:

-this proposal is not a live, funded project that is about to be implemented.

-construction work is not about to start on this project in February 2025.

-there is currently no funding earmarked to deliver such a route, be it from local or central government.

-the LCWIP does not recommend a segregated lane (of any colour) through the High Street. Rather it suggests converting the current pedestrian zone to a pedestrian and cycle zone.

The LCWIP is only a high-level document, and the inclusion of a particular alignment or suggested approach does not mean that the route will definitely be delivered that way, as set out in section 6 of the document, which is quoted below:

“None of the routes have undergone comprehensive feasibility assessment work. Their inclusion is based on an initial outline assessment of their potential deliverability …There will often be multiple ways to achieve the same end. Specific proposed improvements are included to demonstrate how a route could be delivered rather than a suggestion it is the only, or best way. Further technical assessment, design and community engagement work will be required before delivering the majority of proposed interventions.”

The content of the LCWIP was informed by community feedback from a consultation process that took place in the spring of 2022, lasted 6 weeks and was promoted/organised as follows:

· An online interactive map where people could place comments on the map or make more general comments about routes and areas. The map and an accompanying video explaining the LCWIP consultation process were heavily publicised, including on numerous occasions on this very Facebook noticeboard. A total of 267 ideas/issues were posted and there was a total of 816 responses to those ideas. 189 individuals participated in some way on the interactive map (be it posting an initial idea or commenting on one of the ideas that had been posted).

· Facebook advertising promoting the consultation and how to give your feedback

· Printed posters and fliers widely distributed, email circulars to local stakeholder groups, information in local school newsletters, adverts on Southern Vectis bus services

· Press releases to all Island media outlets and some print advertising in local newsletters

· Covid-compliant, in person drop-in consultation sessions located in Gurnard, Northwood and Cowes

The production of the LCWIP was part funded by Cowes Town Council, along with Gurnard and Northwood parish councils and the Isle of Wight Council. All funders had continual input to the document and approved the final version.

In terms of the LCWIP more widely, it is worth saying that the Arctic Road/Floating Bridge to Cowes sea front route is only one of a number of walking and cycling routes that are proposed for the Cowes area in the document. The purpose of the proposals in the LCWIP is to map out ways in which better infrastructure can help more people travel safely and conveniently on foot, cycle and wheel in the Cowes area.

To understand LCWIPs on the Isle of Wight more widely, here’s some background information:

Back in about 2018 the government told local authorities that, if they wanted to bid for funding to improve infrastructure for walking/cycling/wheeling (collectively known as “active travel”), they would need to have a strategic plan in place showing priority areas and routes. Government set out a methodology by which plans should be written and produced. The Cowes area LCWIP is this plan for our local area.

Some local authorities chose to do one LCWIP for their entire area, but on the Isle of Wight the council decided it would be better to devolve LCWIPs to local areas and have a series of LCWIPs produced that collectively would cover the Island. In 2021 the local parish councils of Gurnard, Northwood and Cowes got together and decided they wanted an LCWIP for their area. In partnership with the IW Council, they issued a tender for the production of an LCWIP for the Cowes area and the organisation I am part of, People Powered CIC, won that tender and produced the plan in line with the government guidance.

The reason the document is back in the public domain now is that the IW Council is proposing that this LCWIP (and three others that have now been produced for other areas of the Island) be made into Supplementary Planning Documents. This would mean the contents of the LCWIPs become material considerations when it comes to planning matters. With the caveat that I am not a planner, I understand this to mean that if a planning application comes forward (say for new housing), the aspirations for improved walking and cycling infrastructure set out in the LCWIP need to be taken into account and may influence what new infrastructure (or improvements to existing infrastructure) is considered as part of any new development.

For any plan or strategy to become a Supplementary Planning Document, it needs to be consulted upon and hence the IW Council have publicised the LCWIPs and are asking for comments.

If you’ve stuck with the whole of this post, thanks for reading. I hope the information is useful and will help people make an informed response to the current consultation based on what the document actually says.

In the meantime, I have ensured a hard copy of proposals has been made available at Cowes Library. 

 

English Devolution.

 

Like most Councils, the IW Cabinet (alongside Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton) has supported ‘being at the table’ with Government concerning the move to create a Mayoral Authorities for our region.

 

To note, Unitary Authorities (like the IW Council) will continue to operate as they always have.  However, Government insists upon having a Mayor in place to work with other Council Leaders to discuss extra powers and funding due to be filtered down from Government. One matter in place elsewhere that I would expect and will be calling to see, is that any of the four Council Leaders retains authority to veto decisions.

 

As a consequence, elections scheduled for 1^st May could be delayed by Government.  I personally do not support this, as the IW Council are due to move to a Committee structure to replace Cabinet from 2^nd May. In addition, there needs to be consistency with Parish, Town and Community Council elections, and as far as IW Councillors are concerned, we were only elected to have a mandate for four years. 

 For Details of Government’s proposals visit:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/english-devolution-white-paper-power-and-partnership-foundations-for-growth/english-devolution-white-paper

 

Gurnard Play Equipment.

 

Gurnard Parish Council are seeking to where appropriate make good or replace the pirate ship and other play equipment at Gurnard Green. With respect to this, the Parish Council have agreed to increase ring-fenced funds to do this. 

 

Flooding.

 

In my capacity as Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding, I continue to receive feedback from residents and with their local Councillors I have a number of site meetings scheduled for this month.  As a result, working with the Island’s Town and Parish Council’s, I am seeking to offer a drop-in to give councillors/ residents support.

 

Locally, I am hopeful that road gullies and drains are kept clear and pavements kept ice free should colder conditions arise. Please let me know if you have witnessed incidents that require action.  

 

Cow Lane.

 

I continue to receive complaints concerning Cow Lane being blocked by vehicles.  To note, the only vehicles that have consent to use this public footpath are Gurnard Primary School and the two properties (Hummingbirds and Kenley House) located in this private lane.

 

Consultations.

 

·         IW Council Budget.

The IW Council are consulting upon its budgetary priorities for this coming (2025/6 financial Year). This consultation continues until Sunday 26^th January. For details visit: https://www.iow.gov.uk/budget-consultation-2025-2026/

 

·         Waste and Recycling Survey.

Let the IW Council know your thoughts regarding waste and recycling. This survey continues until Thursday 23 January.

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=xAxTJBQhTkW-QFQIoaLuA-bq6tw1RANKnSHAMsph40lUQThVT1o0SkJYOFVYWFpIWkUwQk1RN0xZMS4u&route=shorturl

 Annual Report from the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding: Summary of Actions.

 

·         Island Planning Strategy.  Liaison /feedback from Councillors. Accepted by Full Council and Submitted to Inspectors.

·         Creation of new Supplementary Planning Documents on Affordable Housing and Infrastructure

·         Liaison with Government re. the reality of new priorities as drafted in new Planning Policy

·         Completion of ‘Award Winning’ Sea defences at Ventnor. 

·         Ongoing Engagement for new Coastal Protection schemes at Shanklin, St Helens and Yaverland.

·         Award given for funding bid for Community Liaison officer from SRFCC.

·         Walk in surgeries for residents at Seaclose. Following its success this has now been rolled out for agents & architects.

·         Target to complete S19 Flood Plans. Most have now been rolled out with work commencing on priorities.

·         Flood Defence and Resilience Committees have been created to enhance community liaison.

·         Leeson Road, Ventnor was opened ahead of schedule following cliff falls.  The road again reopened in November

·         Liaison with residents impacted both at Bonchurch and St Lawrence continued.  I attended several meetings.   

·         Meeting with Flood Defence Agencies has resulted in increased recognition and funding.

·         Southern Water Pathfinder. New SUDS scheme to be introduced at Gurnard with further schemes to follow.

·         Adoption of the IW AONB (Natural Landscape) Strategy.

·         Consultations for Local Cycling Walking Infrastructure Plans. To allow walking/ cycling via developer contributions.

·         Planning Enforcement closer working with Town, Community & Parish Council’s resulting in positive outcomes. 

·         Fast-tracking and processing of Affordable Housing schemes.

·         Rejection of the Solent CO2 Pipeline. This followed widespread objections.

·         Flood Officer recruitment.

·         Continued roll-out of repairs to coastal defences.

·         Roll out of SIFCA’s Patrol vessel, Vigilant.  New vessel has been key to ensuring recent Enforcement matters.

·         Fisheries Drop-In’s introduced.  This has raised SIFCA profile to stakeholders.

·         Improved local authority member attendance within SIFCA following appointment of deputies.

In a nutshell, this month’s report from the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding:

 

·         I have received calls concerning houses and cars being egged. These have been reported to the police.

·         I met with the recently formed Gunville Flood Group. A number of actions are being followed up by the EA and IWC. 

·         An update was given to residents from Ventnor regarding land stability, and the condition of roads in the area.  There is a follow up meeting being arranged for next month to receive geological information.

·         Government’s annual housing figure for the Island fell from 1104 to 1047.  This number, similar to the number (1045) indicated by the previous Government in 2018, and remains significantly higher than IW Council proposal for 453.

·         Government recently published a consultation, as to how Local Authorities operate their Planning Committees. Visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/planning-reform-working-paper-development-and-nature-recovery for details.  I am liaising with the IW Council Planning Committee Chairman, in the hope of sending a joint response.

·         Due to access issues housing proposals for Landscape Lane, Newport was refused by the Planning Committee.  The Committee also refused to alter Planning Conditions for Birch Close, Freshwater.   

·         A delayed planning application decision was actioned in accordance with revised timescales in Nettlestone.

·         The Footprint Trust gave a presentation at the December IWALC meeting with Cabinet.  It is intended that the meeting scheduled for 15^th January will update IWALC Councillors on recent proposals for English Devolution.

·         I have been advised that The EA have given updates to residents on 32 separate individual flood mitigation plans.

·         I’ve been in contact with residents and Councillors in Whippingham, regarding enforcement action concerning a ditch that was infilled (creating issues) a number of years ago. I am hoping to follow this up with a multi-agency site visit. 

·         In addition, I am hoping to action the same following a collapsed culvert in Shanklin.

·         Reassurance has been provided concerning the future use of airports (specifically, Bembridge) on the Isle of Wight.

·         I am intending to meet a business owner regarding the processing of a former commercial planning application and the impact this could have upon their business.

·         Further landslips have taken place following recent storms at Christmas. This has resulted in further footpath closures across the Island

 

In a nutshell, this month.

 

·         Residents from Gurnard and Northwood have approached me regarding proposals to develop land at Comforts Farm, Pallance Road.  Of concern is the view Pallance Road is dangerous through traffic speeds, and proposals do nothing to address this. Also of concern, lying outside the settlement boundary proposals are not sustainable.

·         Following a question raised I found out the IW Council have no policies concerning scattering of ashes on beaches. 

·         Please let me know your views concerning the levels of care received at St Mary’s Hospital.  One resident raised with me issues concerning patients sleep deprivation on wards at night time, and the impact had on recovery rates.. 

·         Following last month’s newsletter, the IW Council are considering issuing a flat £1 flat fare to under 21 year olds, under the Bus Service Improvement Plan  which the Council on this occasion successfully bid for. Other schemes being considered are lower flat fees for town services, bus prioritisation schemes and proposals for electric buses. 

IW Councillor's Report December 2024

 

 

Surgeries.

 

4:30-5pm, Monday 2^nd December, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 3^rd December, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 11^th December, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

 

Christmas Break.

 

Please note, I can be contacted throughout the holiday period, despite holding no surgeries after mid-December.  However, because of Annual Leave at this time of year it may take longer to resolve issues. To contact me please text, or call me on 07 935 090 835.

 

Small Business Saturday.

 

The IW Council will again be sharing its yuletide joy with shoppers on Small Business Saturday. Free Parking will be in place from 12-6pm on Saturday 7^th December in all the IW Council’s off-street, long-stay Car Parks.

 

Footprint Trust: Free home energy guidance and help

 

If you’re struggling with bills, call the Trust on 01983 822282, or email: info@footprint-trust.co.uk   Visit:   https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/cost-of-living/health-and-wellbeing/community-support/ for support.

 

The IW Council offers help at:https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/cost-of-living/household-support-fund/ and https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/cost-of-living/health-and-wellbeing/community-support/

 

Pension Credits.

 

The Government advises that residents wishing to claim pension credits for the 2024/2025 Winter Fuel Payment should do so before 21^st December.  To note, pension credit entitlement can open up access to other benefits. The easiest way to claim, by far is to call 0800 99 1234. 

 

Council Tax Benefits.

 

If you are a single adult, you are entitled to a 25% discount on your Council Tax. There are several other discounts and concessions also available. Please visit: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/council-tax-discounts/

 

Supporting IW Bus Services.

 

The IW Council will receive an additional £1.8m of Government funding to support local bus services.

 

The grant has been designated to enhance popular routes, protect rural services and increase bus use for shopping, socialising and commuting.

 

The Youth Council raised concerns over the increased cap for single bus fares which will increase from January to £3 (when making multiple journeys across the Island this can prove expensive, as there are no concessions for young people). In addition, I have also approached the Council Leader, Cllr. Phil Jordan about whether the £3 bus cap could potentially return to £2 as the increase will impact adversely impact upon those on low incomes.

 

Sustainable Drainage Solutions (SUDs), Gurnard.

 

Work is due to start on proposals to reduce surface water, and its impact on outflows and bathing water. Southern Water has confirmed this will commence on 13^th January, and follows me chasing for arrangements to be in place to proceed.

 

IW AONB (National Landscape) Management Plan 2025-2030 supported by Full Council.

 

As relevant Cabinet Member, it was fantastic to receive unanimous support for the IW AONB Management Plan. This follows 18 months of work with stakeholders, that will continue to enhance our countryside and the communities who benefit. To note, although the AONB has been renamed the ‘Isle of Wight National Landscape’, all National Landscapes require an AONB Plan.  On the Island this designation applies to 50% of our Island.

 

For details please visit: https://isleofwight-nl.org.uk/discover-learn/iw-aonb-management-plan/

 

Gurnard Seafront.

 

Last month saw a Halloween event attended by 100+ people which was promoted on social media. Following the event residents, parish councillors, myself and Jayne our Environment Officer removed broken glass and rubbish scattered between Gurnard Seafront to Gurnard Marsh.  A big thank you to all involved in the tidy-up!

 

Because of the downturn in the weather, it is unlikely further events will take place…In the meantime, we continue to monitor rubbish bins on the seafront which has continued to get overfilled and damaged. 

Fix My Street.

 

Residents can report concerns directly to Island Roads, as well as to me.  This facility can be used for road problems, fly tipping and anything that affects the highway.  It helps if the issues are reported so there is data to show where problems occur and how often.  For details visit: https://fms.islandroads.com/

 

Parking.

 

Please can residents continue to park safely and close to the kerb, as I regularly hear from HGV and our community bus drivers of issues when access is disrupted. This especially applies to Worsley Road and Baring Road.

 

With Christmas approaching and the Portland and church heaving, please be cautious when parking at the junction with Church Road in Worsley Road. This year, I would be overjoyed to receive no complaints!

 

Road Closure: Cockleton Lane.

 

Carriageway Maintenance is due to take place on Monday 16^th December.  Understanding this work was due to take place in advance, it was good to see (at this stage!) works (should) not interfere with the community bus.

 

Planning Enforcement.

 

Following the proactive work from Planning Enforcement, one issue of unconsented Air B&B use is now resolved on Princes Esplanade.  Elsewhere there are two or three requests that have been made to put right activities occurring in both Cowes and Gurnard.

 

Cowes Primary School.

 

Proposals, setting out Cowes and five other primary school’s futures, which will be published early this month. This follows the significant decrease in pupil numbers and the impact this continues to have upon school finances and potentially the quality of education across the Island.

 

As local Councillor, I would like to thank the number of residents who have contacted me regarding our schools in the Cowes area.  Much of the feedback has been constructive and pragmatic with some parents (although a minority) in support for the need of closures.  Details will feature in the report to Cabinet on 12^th December.

 

Planning Application: Outline for 14 units, Comforts Farm,  Pallance Road, Northwood Ref: 24/01611/OUT

 

An application has been received to potentially develop on the northern side of Pallance Road, whilst this application is obviously in Northwood because the boundary of Gurnard lies ‘directly to the north of gardens in Pallance Road, as no gardens exist where the proposal is, in this case the boundary lies in the centre of Pallance Road.

 

The deadline for comments falls on 31^st December.. 

 

High Street Regeneration?

 

Councils will be handed new powers to breathe new life back into high streets and transform long-term empty shops, the government has announced.

 

High Street Rental Auctions (HSRAs) will allow local leaders to tackle persistently vacant properties in city, town and village centres by putting the leases up for auction. This will boost the high street through a ‘right to rent’ commercial lots for businesses and community groups, after the powers come into force from 2^nd December through legislation.

 

The move will stop disengaged landlords from sitting on empty properties for more than 365 days in a 24-month period, before councils can step in and auction a one-to-five year lease.

 

Corporate Scrutiny Meeting: The delivery of Affordable Housing for Islanders.

 

I attended the most recent meeting of the Corporate Scrutiny Committee, which focused on providing new housing that Islanders could afford.  The meeting was attended by Housing Officers, Housing Associations and the Council’s Finance Officer who has been criticised for not enabling the local authority to invest in housing…  In response, it was made very clear that despite ‘affordable housing’ being a key priority for Councillors, any investment would be at risk, as repayments of debts would see many years to come to fruition.

 

At the meeting it was suggested that the key to the blockage of providing viable new affordable/ social housing on the Isle of Wight was market forces and not necessarily the IW Council.  In response the Committee suggested considering use of pension funds to uplift the viability of building new homes.  This I cannot see would be supported, given the risk to pension pots. In addition, there was an acceptance that Housing Associations were better placed to deliver housing than Council Housing Companies, this is currently due to Associations being able to access funding.  

 

Red Funnel.

 

Following Red Jet 6’s refit during November, Red Funnel has announced that the refit for Red Jet 7 takes place in January. This will result in fewer daily Red Jet throughout this time.

 

Fireworks.

 

If you’re intending to celebrate the New Year with a bang and Fireworks, please tell your neighbours, particularly those with pets. Please also consider your local councillors, as most New Year’s I receive calls from those affected!

 

Northwood Cemetery.

 

Following discussions with the driver’s insurance company, all is now in place for the repairs to the wall in Newport Road (opposite the junction with Mill Hill Road) to start. 

 

Letters To Heaven.

 

A special post box has been installed within the grounds of the Isle of Wight Crematorium to allow people to write heartfelt letters to loved ones who have passed away.

 

The white Letters to Heaven post box will enable grieving Islanders to write letters, cards and messages to missed family and friends.

 

When the post box is emptied letters will be turned into compost to be used in the memorial gardens. This special soil will also enhance the ecosystem of the grounds for all to enjoy.

 

Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.

 

It's important to get your winter flu and COVID-19 vaccinations if you're eligible. Getting vaccinated every year will top up your protection and reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms.

 

You can get both the NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccines if you:

 

·         are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)

·         have certain health conditions

·         are pregnant

·         live in a care home for older adults

·         Other care home residents, carers and people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system can get the flu vaccine.

·         Children aged 2 or 3 years and school-aged children (Reception to Year 11) can get the children's flu vaccine.

·         Frontline health and social care workers can also get flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

 

General Waste.

 

Last month, with Christmas approaching I was asked to feedback from Waste Services what now counts as Black Bin (General Waste).  In response, I’m advised this includes the following:

 

·         animal waste and litter (bagged)	·         broken crockery and Pyrex	·         bubble wrap
·         wrapping paper (with glitter or from foil)	·         cold ash	·         foil food pouches
·         crisp bags/ sweet wrappers (silver inside)	·         contaminated food packaging	·         incontinence wear
·         wet wipes (baby, beauty and cleaning)	·         nappies	·         Polystyrene
·         sanitary/feminine hygiene wear	·         underwear	·         used tissues
·         vacuum cleaner bags / household sweepings	·         medicinal blister packs	·         Clingfilm

 

Christmas Waste Collections.

 

The festive period is almost upon us, and we’ve got you covered on all things recycling and waste. 

Recycling, waste and garden subscription collections are changing for two weeks over Christmas and the New Year period.  

Usually Collected:  Monday 23 December  Will be collected: No Change

Usually Collected:  Tuesday 24 December  Will be collected: No Change

Usually Collected: Wednesday 25 December  Will be collected Friday 27 December

Usually Collected: Thursday 26 December Will be collected: Saturday 28 December

Usually Collected Friday 27 December Will be collected: Sunday 29 December 

Usually Collected:  Monday 30 December  Will be collected: No Change

Usually Collected:  Tuesday 31 December  Will be collected: No Change

Usually Collected: Wednesday 1 January  Will be collected Thursday 2 January

Usually Collected: Thursday 2 January  Will be collected Friday 3 January

Usually Collected: Friday 3 January  Will be collected Saturday 4 January

Collections will return to normal from Monday 6 January 2025.

In addition, no bulky waste or free reuse collections will be made on Wednesday 25 December, Thursday 26 December or Wednesday 1 January.  

Polystyrene collection 
We would like to remind residents that we will collect excess polystyrene from households on general (black bin/black reusable sack) waste collection days from Monday 6 January 2025 until Friday 17 January 2025. 

If you have extra polystyrene packaging that won’t fit in your black bin or sack, just place it within a clear or white plastic bag next to your black bin/black gull sack on your collection day.

It must be in a clear or white sack so that the collection crews can easily identify it. The clear bag must only hold polystyrene, or it won’t be collected. Any excess general waste or black sacks left to the side of your bin or gull sack will not be collected. 

After 17 January, please remember that as polystyrene is not currently recyclable it must be placed in your black bin/black reusable sack or taken to Lynnbottom or Afton Marsh Household Waste Recycling Centre and placed in the general rubbish skip. 

Cardboard waste 

If you have lots of cardboard waste, please bundle up and place it separately to the side of your recycling bin/sack on your recycling week collection. 

Batteries 

• Batteries must always be removed from electrical items before being collected.
• Place your spent household batteries safely and separately in their own clear sandwich sized bag.
• Leave the clear bag holding the batteries on top (not inside) of your general waste (black bin/black reusable sack) on your general waste collection week.

Batteries thrown into ordinary bins/sacks, household waste or with other recycling are dangerous.  

Large batteries such as laptop/phone/power tool batteries and car batteries or items where the batteries cannot be removed should be taken to your nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre. 

Real Christmas tree collection 

If you have an active Garden Waste Subscription, you can also dispose of real Christmas trees as part of the service. The tree should be clear of all decorations and pots and can be left to the side of your garden bin on your collection day between Monday 6 January and Friday 17 January 2025. 

Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) 

Lynnbottom and Afton Marsh Household Waste and Recycling Centres will be closed on Christmas Day. Other than this, normal opening hours apply. 

Book your visit in advance or choose a same day booking by visiting the Isle of Wight Council’s website or by calling (01983) 823777. 

More information on waste and recycling can be found at www.iow.gov.uk/waste 

 

Southern Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authority.

 

·         A meeting and Briefing Session took place with other representatives of Local Authorities. The session showed the scope of work undertaken by SIFCA and the financial pressures the Authority are under, particularly as SIFCA like many Government bodies do not receive DEFRA funding until well into the Financial year. SIFCA are still awaiting their settlement for 2024/5.

·         As Chair, I met with members of the Lyme Regis fishing community.  This is the third drop-in I have been involved in, and is key to raising the profile of SIFCA.  As meetings continue, it is interesting to note that fishing communities are on the same page with most conservation groups with respect to fishing quotas/ caps etc.

·         SIFCA’s new patrol vessel has undertaken sea trials this month.  I was fortunate to join officers, alongside Chair and Vice-Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee and my vice-chair and Portland Councillor, Rob Hughes. 

 

Hedgehog Corner.

 

Because of space and because it’s Christmas, Ive added this lovely 2 minute film. Enjoy! https://youtu.be/1ozSXdYrd8k

 

 

 

Report from the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding.

 

·         The Island Planning Strategy was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate, with Inspectors David Spencer and Andrew Steen appointed by the Secretary Of State. Hearings are due to take place during February and March. The Council’s Programme Officer has met with the Inspectors, and I am advised there are no ‘showstoppers’. It is anticipated that the Inspectors will highlight their Matters, Issues and Questions before Christmas.

·          I continue to monitor the progress of Coastal Defence Schemes for Shanklin, St Helens, Ventnor and Yaverland.  I anticipate the longer these take to come to fruition the more costly these will become, for this reason it remains important that these schemes remain to their respective timeframes.

·         At Binstead, all residents affected by Flooding over the last few years have been contacted. 32 households will benefit from support.

·         Repairs were sanctioned following a burst water main in Cowes High Street. During the incident wastewater was pumped as normal separately. 

·         Southern Water are to recycle water. This involves purifying waste water at Sandown and returning purified water to the East Yar.  It is suggested that by doing this will make the Island less dependent on water supplies from the protected chalk streams that feed into the River Test. Consultation is due to take place from January.

·         Outcomes from the Planning Peer Review continue with 44% complete, 26% progressing and 23% on target.

·         Government has advised the IWC that there will be support for National wage and National Insurance increases.

·         Within the Planning Committee, Councillors upheld officers recommendations for refusal at Camp Road, Freshwater for 127 dwellings. Also, the request for the LPA to remove planning conditions for the PTEC Tidal Energy facility at Flowersbrook, Ventnor were rejected by Councillors.

·         The decision notice for the Kingston Film Studio at East Cowes was issued. 

·         Within the Cabinet, with colleagues we remain hopeful that Government recognises the Isle of Wight following Ministerial Statements.  As always, we are advised that our financial grant will be made just before Christmas, and is likely to direct local authorities to support adult social care.

·         I’ve been approached by a Business (formerly a resident when I was a Ryde Councillor) requesting support.

·         I am working with a Shanklin Councillor, on an issue impacting on a household in their town.

·         Further flooding occurred at Gunville following Storm Bertie.  Six properties were affected and support has been provided to those impacted.

·         An agreement with neighbouring Councils through the Partnership for South Hampshire Joint Committee has been reached. From the Island’s perspective, I’m hopeful this will enable us to benefit from biodiversity and nitrates credits.

 

In a nutshell, Other news from Cowes West and Gurnard.

 

·         It was a privilege to attend this year’s Remembrance Service at All Saints Church, Gurnard.  Following laying wreaths on behalf of the IW Council and Gurnard Parish Council, I had the opportunity to meet up with attendees from the Cowes service.

·         Repairs are due to take place to the ‘Wooden Slipway’ on Shore Path.

·         I have received complaints regarding vehicles parking in Cow Lane.

·         Requests have been made to monitor the road conditions at Worsley Road (again) and Rew Street.

·         The IW Council has now confirmed that the drone trial from Mornington Car Park will not take place.

·         I’m supporting a number of residents living off-grid. These residents, I know are being supported by neighbours.

·         I have been in contact with a number of residents concerning school closures.  In Cowes I was contacted by fourteen households.  Of these ten were opposed to school closures, whilst four were supportive..

·         A request was made to remove horse poo from opposite the beach huts next to the Woodvale Pumping Station.

·         I’ve been asked to resurrect details of proposals for residents, as a Trust or Cowes Town Council to manage the green space and Car Park at Mornington Road. When this occurred previously enthusiasm from residents waned. As there were also changes at the IW Council this did not proceed.  On this, I have offered my support. 

·         I understand that a meeting is due to take place concerning suggestions for Cowes Parade.

·         At Full Council, I supported measures for the IW Council to support small businesses in light of recent legislation by the Government.  At Full Council, IW Councillors hade to consider their conflicts as many are themselves small business people.. This motion was largely supported (I supported this in full, not having a conflict!) 

·         I have offered my support to three separate households with vulnerable residents.

·         I am supporting a local resident with planning concerns.

·       I attended a training session of the Local Pensions Board. At this stage in my opinion it still seems unlikely members will support funding social housing, due to the potential risks involved.

 

   

  

Thank you for reading my reports! Wishing all residents a happy Christmas and a peaceful 2025.