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Other concerns raised and withdrawn from the budget, saw proposals to increase parking charges scrapped.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.