IW Councillors Report, April 2026

 

Surgeries.

 

10:30-11am, Thursday 2^nd April; Gurnard Press and Bistro, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30-12pm, Thursday 9^th April, Phoenix Café, Gurnard Pines, Cockleton Lane, Gurnard.

4:30-5pm, Monday 13^th April: Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Monday 13^th April: Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 8^th April; The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11am; Wednesday 15^th April, Benches adj. Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am; Wednesday 15^th April, The Woodvale Hotel, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Wednesday 23^rd April, Coffee and Cake at All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 29^th April; The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:45-12:30pm, Thursday 30^th April; Eegon’s Café, High Street, Cowes.

 

Car Parking Charges for Gurnard/ Cowes Seafront Scrapped.

 

Proposals by Finance Officers to charge to park on our Seafront were scrapped by IW Councillors when setting its budget for next year.

 

Working with Adam Provis, who initiated this all-Island Petition calling not to extend parking into areas that currently were free, we were successful in seeing these ill-conceived proposals scrapped. A big thank you to Adam, Plaza Ice Creams, local businesses and the 4000+ signatures amassed in advance of the Council’s Budget Meeting!

 

IW Council Budget.

 

The budget finally agreed included freezing parking charges for a fourth year, no increased cost to the Floating Bridge Saver Cards, free under 19’s travel on the bridge, Newport Roman Villa remaining open, no cutback to opening times at Lynnbottom/ Afton, retention of Duke Of Edinburgh schemes and no compulsory redundancies for staff.

 

Southern Water Updates.

 

Horsebridge Hill and Elenors Grove reopened ahead of schedule. A big thank you to contractors Clancy Docwra working and above and beyond the call of duty ensuring that these main arterial roads could re-open in time for Easter.

 

Gurnard Pines.

 

The outdoor multi-sports pitch is in its final stages, and once completed will offer a 5-a-side football pitch, roller skating, netball and more!

 

In the meantime, scaffolding is in place to remove the swimming pool roof. The restored heated pool is great news as it will reinstate lessons. I understand the aim is to reopen the pool in July. When not in use the pool will be covered

 

Having started canvassing at Gurnard Pines, I’ve been asked to resurrect surgeries. These will take place at the Phoenix Café from 11:30am-12pm on the second Thursday of each month.

 

Local Elections.

 

These take place on Thursday 7^th May. Because of changes to Postal Votes, electors now must reapply every three years. To reapply, to apply for Voter ID (This is now necessary for residents without driving licenses/ passports etc.), or you need to update details, let the IW Council know by visiting: https://www.iow.gov.uk/article/1174/Register-to-vote or calling 01983 821000 before 20^th April 2026.

 

Please note, I am seeking re-election and will continue being out and about to listen to your views!

 

Water Pipe, Gurnard Marsh.

 

Myself and others who live locally are chasing up a now hazardous long-standing piece of pipework which it is believed belongs to Southern Water. I understand this piece of rusted metal which enters the beach 100m from the pumping station was repaired and made safe by the company five years ago.  However, it has been noted that discharge still seems to be leaking from it.  This is being checked out, and I hope to report back next month.  

 

Post Boxes.

 

Postboxes with bigger slots will soon accept parcels as well as letters. For this reason the large postboxes such as the box at Worsley Road, Gurnard will be out of action.

 

Findcheapfuel.com

 

With the conflict escalating with the Middle East, Cowes based company Wight Hat Limited launched its Find Cheap Fuel application.  The purpose of the new application is to advise motorists of where is the least expensive garage to buy petrol.  For further details please visit https://findcheapfuel.com/ on both the Apple Store or Google Play

 

E-Scooters.

 

The Government led ‘licensed E-scooter pilot’ has been extended (again) until 2028.

 

Northwood and Gurnard Flood Action Group

 

This we recently set up to support local residents and receive updates from the IW Council’s Flood Team

 

Priorities for the Group are to: Seek mitigation measures causing flooding; Using good practice in-situ elsewhere; obtaining sandbags/ alternatives with consideration of self-help access for residents, support and storage; Liaising directly with agency and support providers and monitoring/ updating Flood Plans via the two Parish Council’s.

 

The Flood Group continues to await updates from the Flood Team as to when mitigatory works take place. A big thank you to the Horseshoe Inn, Northwood for hosting our first meeting

 

Planning Applications.

 

·         Fire Training Facility, Cockleton Farm, Gurnard.

I’ve called in (for consideration by the Planning Committee) proposals to create a unit at Cockleton Farm, should officers feel mindful of approving the proposal. Because of upcoming elections, this will be considered by the new planning Committee and argued by our new Councillor, should I not be re-elected.

 

With the proximity of future housing and potential change of use from Agricultural to Industrial land, and any precedent rising from this, I have concerns. These arise when permitting incineration and the aspect that within 150 metres will be the nearest Meadow View property.  As Councillor, residents often ask, ‘what constitutes anti-social behaviour when lighting bonfires?’ On this, Environmental Health advises that more than one or two bonfires a month may cross the threshold of being anti-social.  In this circumstance concerns over twice weekly fires, and where the proposal is on the prevailing wind, I see as a potential problem.

 

I’ve requested these and other concerns are responded to by officers before I can change my mind on the call-in.

 

In the meantime, following a meeting attended by 30-40 residents the Managing Director of Flying Fish, advised that he was considering modifying proposals for a cleaner/ greener alternative using Propane. This I continue to monitor.

 

·         14 new dwellings, Comforts Farm, Northwood.

The Planning Inspectorate has overturned IWC Planners decision to refuse proposals for 14 dwellings at Comforts Farm. For me, this is another reflection on the national roll-out of new homes and is a consequence of not having an up to date local plan

 

·         McDonald’s Application, Three Gates Road, Cowes.

The three applications comprising of this proposal, is likely to be considered by Planning Committee later this spring.

 

Southern IFCA Chair’s Report: April 2026.    

 

·      During the winter, Community Forums were held, which met with fishing communities in Poole, Mudeford, Lymington, Warsash and Portsmouth.  These meetings have proved invaluable as this has provided an opportunity for fishermen across the region to meet with and address ongoing concerns they have.

·      This year our National Association is due to celebrate its 15^th Anniversary.

·      Meetings continue to take place with the Government’s new Fisheries Minister, Angela Eagle.

·      As yet nationally Authorities await their Annual Government DEFRA Grant for the Financial Year 2025/2026.  It is anticipated that this will arrive at the very end of the Financial Year.

·      Throughout this year’s Fishing Season a large number of Enforcement Cases have taken place with hearings. taking place as a matter of course.    

·      At the March meeting, it was agreed to circulate new AIFCA videos to Local Councils and Harbour Authorities.  These can be accessed here:   https://association-ifca.org.uk/about-us/

 

Drones.

 

At a recent Solent Transport meeting, I had the opportunity to see for myself some drones that are being tested by Southampton University to carry products cross-Solent to the Isle of Wight

 

One of the ‘gaps’ identified, are concerns that nowhere on the Island is there an ability to produce chemotherapy drugs. Because of this, at the cost of between £50-£70K drones are seen as an opportunity to get drugs to the Island.  Unlike ferries, drones can operate in 47mph gusts and over time researchers have attempted to address concerns over the impact of vibrations on medications and packaging, which has now been remedied.  At the meeting where drones were unveiled it was accepted that UK drones still has some way to go to catch up with those used abroad.

 

Easter Adventures Await! HAF Programme bounces back for 2026. 

 

Families across the Island can access the popular Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme returns with 2 weeks of fun, food and fresh adventures.

 

Running from Monday 30^th March to Friday 10^th April, this year's programme is packed with activities designed to get youngsters active, creative and smiling.

 

Much‑loved providers are back with favourites like horse riding, hands‑on farming fun, sports coaching, music-making,  film‑making, and a handful of new faces are joining in to bring even more choice.

 

Every session includes a healthy, tasty meal, meaning families can enjoy the peace of mind that their children are having fun and eating well. Free places are available for children who receive income‑related free school meals, and there are a limited number of discretionary funded places for those who don't meet the criteria but would still benefit.

 

Housing Support.

 

In recent months, I’ve been dedicating more time supporting residents navigating what is often a frustrating journey through Housing.

 

If you are in need of support, and choose to bypass me a good place to start is the Island HomeFinder service.

 

Island HomeFinder is a partnership between the IW Council, Sovereign Network Group (formerly Sovereign Housing Association), Southern Housing and Vectis Housing Association.

 

Island HomeFinder aims to give residents choice where they live.  Properties available for rent are advertised each week. Once registered, it will be up to you to let HomeFinder know which properties you are interested in. This process is known as bidding. You may only bid for a property if your application has been accepted onto Island HomeFinder. You can bid for as many properties each week as you want, providing you are eligible for that property. 

 

For details, visit: https://www.islandhomefinder.org.uk/ or please call: 01983 823040.

 

Ferry Petition.

 

I am fully supportive of a new petition set up seeking support for Government intervention on ferry fares.

 

Residents of the Isle of Wight have launched a national petition urging the UK Government to address what campaigners describe as the “Island Tax”. As ferry fares represent an unavoidable and significant additional cost for residents accessing jobs, healthcare and family – costs not faced by mainland communities. For Islanders, the ferry is not optional; it is a vital national infrastructure link connecting the Island to the mainland.

 

The petition, is seeking at least 10,000 signatures, the threshold required to trigger a formal response from Government. Campaigners are calling for action to ensure affordable, capped ferry fares for Isle of Wight residents, arguing that cross-Solent ferry services function as a lifeline connection rather than discretionary transport.

 

For details, visit: https://www.change.org/p/introduce-a-government-backed-scheme-to-make-ferry-fares-affordable-for-iow-residents

 

Highway’s Issues.

 

·         Whilst we are relieved to have Horsebridge Hill and Elanors Grove reopened,  I share the frustration of motorists who have advised that neighbouring roads to the two arterial roads being closed.  In Newport this includes Betty Haunt Lane and in Havenstreet Firestone Copse Road, which both were closed by Island Roads due to perceived traffic speeds.   Please let me have your thoughts?

·         Residents have asked me to investigate opportunities to consider creating a mini-roundabout at the Place Road junction with Three Gates Road.  The reason for this is due to exiting Three Gates Road is perceived to be an issue.  In the past these proposals were scrapped due to cost, and the then small scale of developments taking place.  Do you consider that with the cumulative impact of development, this is something worth reconsidering?

·         Following winter pine-fall, I have requested for Island Roads to clear gullys and clean Pine Tree Close, Cowes.

·         A request has been made to repair one of the two parking meters on Cowes Parade. It is hoped this will occur before Easter.

·         Mornington Road Car Park was assessed as an underused car park.  As such under new IW Council policy, this may be prioritised for Social Rent Housing pending further investigation. Please let me have your thoughts?

 

Food Hygiene.

 

At the Council’s Environment and Community Protection Committee, I raised concerns over delays of Food Premises Safety reviews.  Over the years, I’ve felt uncomfortable that unlike other areas it is not mandatory for food premises to display their five star rating score. 

 

Because there are now so many more food premises operating, and the fact that the Island is recognised for its outlets, it is important for customers to make informed choices.  As it is, premises may score low and unless picked up, nobody is any wiser as scores do not need to be shared with customers.

 

Local Government Reorganisation: Hampshire broken up?

 

Government announced a move to a simpler system of local government, with five new unitary councils replacing its 15 county, district, borough and unitary councils that serve Hampshire, Southampton, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight. Each council will be responsible for local service delivery in its area. Under the Government’s model, there will be four unitary councils on the Hampshire mainland, with the Isle of Wight remaining a standalone unitary council:

 

·         North Hampshire: Basingstoke, Hart and Rushmoor

·        Mid Hampshire: New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester and East Hampshire 

·         South West Hampshire: Eastleigh and Southampton

·         South East Hampshire: Portsmouth, Havant, Gosport and Fareham

·         Isle of Wight.

 

Hedgehog Corner

 

It’s that time of year again; hedgehogs are rousing from hibernation and snuffling round our gardens once more. That means it’s a perfect time to give them a helping hand as they replenish their energy stores after a long winter. Hedgehogs have a generalist diet, mostly making use of beetles, earwigs, caterpillars and earthworms. Some simple wildlife gardening tricks can ensure that hedgehogs have a veritable buffet of natural food.

 

·         Pile ‘em up!

Create a log pile using a mix of different species and log sizes, and mix some leaves in if you have some to hand. This creates a perfect environment for garden invertebrates, hedgehogs, frogs and toads can use your log pile for shelter too. Keep twigs and logs from garden pruning, or ask neighbours or local tree surgeons for any spare wood.

 

·         The long and short of it.

Think of your grass as a mini-meadow and create as much diversity as possible. Put your feet up and cut back on the mowing to allow areas of long grass alongside short. Avoid chemicals, and plant wildflowers to maximise the array of bugs on offer. Check out some tips from the Royal Horticultural Society on wildlife friendly lawns. For details please visit: https://www.rhs.org.uk/wildlife/hedgehog-friendly-gardening

 

·         A cheeky dip.

One of the best ways to help hedgehogs and other wildlife in the garden is with a wildlife pond. Big or small, a pond provides a year-round water source and encourages insects aplenty. Just make sure it has a sloping side or exit ramp for any hogs that may fall in.

 

Also this month:

 

·         Across the Island the Road Traffic Police have undertaken enforcement. Locally this includes Place Road.

·         This month I have undertaken training on Disability Awareness, and further additional refresher face to face training on Domestic Abuse and its impact this can have, and support that I can offer.

·         The IW Planning Committee approved a revised planning application for housing at Nettlestone.

·         In the Leader’s report to Full Council, it was reported that Government again failed to recognise the increased funding needed for our Island.  Whilst on one hand Government accepts that the Isle of Wight is taxed 16% higher than average, on the other the Government fails to want to address this. This, despite cross-party support and from MP’s. To me, it is of no surprise why Islanders more than most parts of the country want to see political change.

·         26 new electric buses have been introduced to the Island.  Originally these were intended for the Service 1 (Cowes-Newport route) given no adverse gradient, however these seem to have been rolled out across the Island.

·         The contractor for our new play area on Gurnard Green has been agreed.  Work should conclude later this year.

·         I continue to criticise Southern Water who failed to attend two meetings with the IW Council.

·         Stolen flares, and the young people responsible have been subject to recent police action.  

·         I have given support to residents unable to receive Planning Enforcement Action.  As this issue is now ‘civil’, I am limited in the support that I can give.

·         The IW Council agreed to more consultation concerning the pooling of the IWC Pension Fund.  I could not support this, as the IW Council has already missed out on becoming a shareholder with the new Fund because of delays.

 

Printed and Promoted by Paul Fuller of 45 Oxford Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 8PT.

IW Councillor's Report: March 2026

 

Surgeries.

 

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

5:30-6pm, Monday 2^nd March, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am, Thursday 5^th March, Gurnard Press Bistro, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

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

10:30-11am, Wednesday 18^th March, Benches adj. Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 18^th March, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 25^th March, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30am-11am, Thursday 26^th March, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Thursday 26^th March, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Isle of Wight Council Budget.

 

·         Extending Parking Charges to areas currently free.

 

A huge thank you to the lovely Adam Provis who undertook the technical work of creating the petition opposing extending car parking charges across the Isle of Wight, where they are currently free.

 

Contrary to some reports these budget proposals had nothing to do with the Alliance Group (whose ‘control’ of the IW Council ceased in May 2025 once the new Committee system came into being)

 

These suggestions came from officers as to where budget savings ‘could’ be met rather than from Councillors.  When discussed, the Economy, Regeneration, Transport & Infrastructure Committee rejected these and other proposals.  However, despite our feelings on suggestions, these were still made.

 

Rather than seeing this as a ‘political football’, this created an opportunity to unite Councillors and as a consequence of Adam’s petition signed by over 4000 people, all motions rejected extending parking charges.

 

• Other ‘savings’

 

Other concerns raised and withdrawn from the budget, saw proposals to increase parking charges scrapped.  This was something that we opposed as a Cabinet. Our view was when you target Town Centre parking, this does not only impact upon local shops, businesses and services, but residents that depend upon them and who they employ.

 

Additional accepted proposals made included no compulsory redundancies, withdrawal of proposals to reduce opening times at rubbish tips. However, The Council Finance Officer declined use of the £12m Transformation Fund in favour of increasing borrowing.  This, Councillors felt could accelerate the IW Council going bankrupt.

 

Roadworks: An Update.

 

·         In its four week update Southern Water advises work continues to proceed well with completion due 17^th April.

·         I have requested enforcement takes place, where lights are ignored following complaints received.

·         Pot Holes and water leaks on the diverted route were repaired.

·         The District Steward continues to monitor the diverted route.  This occurs on a daily basis.

·         Work at Elenors Grove, Fishbourne is progressing well, with completion planned to finish early 27^th March.

 

If able, please drive safely, avoid travelling at peak times, shop locally in Cowes, or travel by buses that are unaffected by the closure. From 7am-6pm buses operates six journeys an hour between Cowes and Newport. Rather than paying to park, there are several roads on Newport Road between Oxford Street, Northwood and Noke Common, Parkhurst where motorists can park without cost or restriction.  Similar arrangements take place at Ryde.

 

Grass Verges.

 

Because of soggy conditions, please refrain from parking where on grass verges. I receive a number of complaints concerning this, particularly given the time that it takes for our grass verges (particularly in Gurnard and on the Crossfield Estate) to recover.

 

Speedwatch.

 

I undertook my first session as a Speedwatch volunteer in Northwood.  We are still looking out for new volunteers across Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood to undertake training. For details contact: clerk@northwoodparishcouncil.gov.uk

 

Garden Waste Subscriptions.

 

I am told that given demand for its Garden Waste Subscriptions, the IW Council are no longer accepting requests. A number of residents (myself included) were caught out, due to the fact we do not pay through Direct Debit.  

 

Onward Waste also offers a similar service. Visit: https://onwardwaste.co.uk/products/garden-waste?variant=34474874142871 or

Call 01983 632205 for details.

 

Assisted Collections.

 

Following calls received, I have passed on to Waste Services of instances where older mobility restricted residents may be entitled to having their bins collected from a safe location FREE.  If you think this may apply to you or somebody you know please call 01983 823777 or visit:  https://www.iow.gov.uk/article/2973/Free-waste-services

 

Northwood and Gurnard Flood Action Group.

 

The first meeting of the Northwood and Gurnard Flood Action Group, takes place 6:30pm, Monday 9th March at the Horseshoe Inn, Northwood.  The purpose of the group is to collectively:

 

·         Seek mitigation measures which cause flooding.

·         Following good practice in place elsewhere.

·         Lobbying for funding for sandbags, alternatives and storage.

·         Direct liaison with the IWC Flood Officers, Emergency Planning, Island Roads, Environment Agency and others.

·         Update and Monitor Local Flood Plans. 

 

Southampton General Hospital.

 

Last month a ‘System Major Incident’ was raised following a major fire at Southampton General Hospital.  This has meant that there are currently 200 fewer beds with a number of wards closed due to fire, smoke and water damage and has increased pressure on other regional hospitals, St. Mary’s included.

 

It is likely that the System Major Incident will continue for a few more weeks with the Emergency Department prioritising Life and Limb Threatening emergencies only.

 

Starlink Satellites.

 

A few weeks ago, I was contacted over concerns of a string of lights seen in the sky over the Island. On research, I was relieved that the Island was not being invaded by either China(!) or aliens.

 

Starlink satellite trains are a fascinating sight in the night sky and move together in the night sky reflecting light from solar panels before before sunrise and after sunset before spreading out from another.

 

Lionheart School. 

 

Lionheart School was graded ‘Strong’ at its recent OFSTED inspection.

 

A key theme within the final report was the school’s inclusive ethos, with the staff knowing pupils exceptionally well and working quickly to identify needs and barriers to learning and wellbeing.

 

If time allows in the coming weeks, I am looking forward to holding a follow up meeting with the school before Easter

 

Gurnard ‘Harbour’

 

Gurnard Parish Council, are seeking to work with others to improve the conditions where boats moor.  At the moment the Council want to liaise with owners, given that some vessels are beyond their lives and some are breaking up at the mouth of the Luck causing environmental damage to this very special area.

 

For further information, please contact: clerk@gurnardparishcouncil.gov.uk

 

Isle of Wight Local Access Forum.

 

I chaired the most recent meeting of the Forum.  Items discussed included:

 

·         Updates on repairs and upgrades to footpaths.  These include steps to Gat Cliff, Stenbury Down and a new boardwalk to Alverstone Meadows.

·         It was reported that there is currently a pause on the creation of new ‘Quiet Lanes’.  This being due to police priorities for enforcement.  

·         I was tasked to set up a Rural Roads Safety Group with feedback to moving an initiative forward in June.

·         Isle of Wight Ramblers are working with the National Trusts seeking to fill gaps on the Rights of Way network.

·         Following reports, Right of Ways advise residents vehicle number plates when witnessing Flytipping incidents.

·         It is hoped, in the near future an update on Shanklin’s closed Appley Steps and Osborne Steps can be provided.

 

Flooding, Gurnard Marsh.

 

I have contacted the Environment Agency, following the lack of notice during Flooding on Gurnard Marsh last month. Having sought advice from residents, I am seeking a more advanced technical device to provide support as Meteorological advice on its own seems inadequate for both residents and Island Roads who were caught out by higher tides considered to be as a consequence of low pressure.  This added to waterlogged fields and high tides exacerbated the situation.  This will be discussed further at this month’s Flood Action Group.

 

Hemlock Water Dropwart Warning.

 

Hemlock Water Dropwort, also known as Dead Man’s Fingers, washed up last week on Bembridge Beach. The IW Council has since received further reports that the plant had been spotted again.

 

People using the beach should take extra care while this is being dealt with.  Hemlock Water Dropwort poses a fatal risk to humans and animals, including dogs, if eaten. The plant attacks the central nervous system and symptoms include trembling, sickness, convulsions, unconsciousness and respiratory failure.

 

Touching the plant can cause a painful rash. If you see the plant, please do not touch it. You can use what3words to geolocate and report to the Environment Agency incident hotline Telephone: 0800 80 70 60

 

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority Update.

 

·         As Chair, I attended a further drop-in, with a dozen regional fishermen when myself and my Team visited Lymington and Mudeford.   With falling numbers of vessels, fishermen and crews it is clear to understand the challenges being faced.  Speaking to fishermen, the industry is being forced into diversifying with a real need (in my opinion) for better Government regulation within 12 miles rather than 6.  This is something that I anticipate will be further debated with national colleagues when I meet online next week with them.

 

·         In the meantime following my input and perseverance, the following public have been produced showing the work nationally of the Authority.  Please visit: https://youtu.be/v8XKhUNNlkA 

 

Southern Water: Leakline.

 

Southern Water has advised me to urge residents to report leaks via their Leakline.  Leakline can be contacted Free on:  Leakline (Freephone): 0800 820 999.  From my perspective, following sub-zero temperatures I have reported a number, which  I am hoping will not to be followed up.

 

Isle of Wight Planning Strategy. 

 

I have responded to the recent Council Consultation on the Island Planning Strategy.

 

Key to my concerns are that housing targets for the Isle of Wight (703 per annum for the next five years, increasing to 1104 thereafter) are unviable and unachievable for the IW Council. This, I consider sets the Council up to fail (To note, most years the Council has 250-450 completions).  Please visit my February Report online for details. 

 

The Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025.

 

The Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, which received Royal Assent in December 2025, aims to accelerate UK development by streamlining planning for major infrastructure, reforming compulsory purchase rules, and introducing spatial development strategies. It fast-tracks energy projects, enables local, sustainable growth, and introduces new nature restoration levies. 

 

Key Aspects of the Act:

 

·         Infrastructure & Energy: Streamlines the consenting process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and prioritizes clean energy projects with a "first ready, first connected" grid system.

·         Planning Reform: Introduces strategic "spatial development strategies" for regional planning and allows local authorities to set their own fees

·         Housing & Land: Simplifies and speeds up compulsory purchase rules for housing, schools, and GP surgeries.

·         Environmental Impact: Establishes a new "nature restoration levy" on developers and creates new environmental development plans.

·         Development Corporations: Provides updated, flexible frameworks for corporations to drive growth. 

 

This legislation is designed to "get Britain building" by reducing delays and, in some cases, simplifying environmental considerations for faster approvals.

 

 

Free Community Event:  Grow Gurnard; The Story So Far.

 

Learn about Grow Gurnard’s journey into Community Farming!  Get inspired and connect with others exploring food in the community. 7-9pm, Friday 27^th February at Gurnard Village Hall, 50 Worsley Road, Gurnard. PO31 8JR.

 

 

News from the Footprint Trust.

 

Did you know, recycling isn't the best option?

Here's the waste hierarchy:  REFUSE - REUSE – RECYCLE

 

·         Refuse: don't take or buy what you don't need.

·         Reuse: repurpose or refill items: jam-jars, wine bottles, etc.

·         Recycle: only if you can't refuse or reuse. Luckily recycling is easy here thanks to the Green Wheelie Bins.

 

·         Check what can go in your bins!

 

Some items can’t go in your bin. Charities may accept them, but always check first. Every year, they spend thousands disposing of unusable donations. Most prefer good-quality clothes, books, and bric-a-brac. Leaving things outside shops is fly-tipping and a fire hazard.

‍

As of August 2025, here’s what’s accepted locally (check for updates):

‍

Furniture: Storeroom.
Medicine blister packs: Recyclable at Boots (Ryde & Shanklin)

Check your local supermarket, they often have a range of recycling points: batteries, plastic bags, coat hangers etc.

 

Hedgehog Corner.

 

Many areas of the UK are seeing their wettest winter on record, with more rain forecast as we approach March. Milder, wetter winters can have lasting impacts on our wildlife populations. Anecdotally, hedgehogs are known to dislike rainy days (don’t we all?), but prolonged wet weather and flooding can displace and endanger them, while fluctuating temperatures can disrupt hibernation and breeding patterns.

 

While recent research has found that hedgehogs may be more adaptable to a changing climate than previously thought, this is dependent on individual body condition and varies between males and females. More research is needed to understand the full impacts of a changing climate.

 

Also this Month:

 

·         Residents from Highfield Road have contacted me concerning alleged illegal vehicles parked in this road.  I am assured that the police are to speak to residents regarding their concerns.

·         I continue to persevere with the Highway Contract Management Team concerning the potential to consider Lane Rental Good Practice.

·         I have asked for the Spencers Copse to be monitored, this follows the steps becoming slippery during recent weather.

·         A flag was removed from Egypt Light following a recent complaint.

·         Leaking Water mains were reported in Pallance Lane, Clissord Road, Park Road and Whitehouse Road.

·         I have signed the Councillor Pledge for Palestine.

·         There has been recent delays within Planning Enforcement.  I’ve taken up issues on behalf of residents affected.

·         I’ve taken action to support a vulnerable resident requiring support.

·         The police have advised that they continue to monitor anti-social behaviour at Shore Path, Gurnard.

·         A resident has approached me with their knowledge on providing support to Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

·         Following Full Council and recent changes to proportionality, I am due to lose my seat on the Children’s Services Committee.

·         The licensed E-scooter pilot has now been extended until 2028.  This I intend finding out about later this month.

·         A question has been raised concerning Planning Conditions which relate to the SANG site.

·         I am supporting two complaints made against the IW Council.

·         I have been asked to set up a meeting to strengthen links between the Footprint Trust and The IW Council with a view to develop improvements to poorly heated homes.

·         I am supporting residents with concerns over the storage of rubbish outside their homes.

·         Following recent floods, steps have been taken to unblock water ways.

·         An approach was made to infill pot holes in Hilton Road.  As this road is private local residents was contacted.