Isle of Wight Councillor's Report: September 2025

Surgeries.

 

11am-12pm, Thursday 28^th August, Eegons Café, 85 High Street, Cowes. 

4:30-5pm, Monday 1^st September, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Monday 1^st September, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am Wednesday 17 September, Benches,  Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 17^th September, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard. 

10:30-11am, Thursday 25^th September, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard. 

11:30-12pm, Thursday 25^th September, Eegons Café, 85 High Street, Cowes. 

 

Planning Applications: 6 Dwellings and parking, Westwood Close, Cowes Ref: 25/01013/FUL

 

I have spoken to a number of residents likely to be impacted by the proposal to build six dwellings at the far end of Westwood Close, where previously there was a play area created by the original developers of the Crossfield Estate, Pinhorn Clarke. The main concern being raised with me concerns car parking and the impact this will have.

 

The deadline for comments on this application falls on Monday 8^th September.

 

Planning Applications: Gurnard Primary School. Ref: 25/00586/FUL

 

Thank you to everybody who approached me concerning proposals for 2 mobile classrooms. By far, most of the comments I received regarded highway safety concerns over increased vehicular journeys. These I’ve fed back to officers in the hope that issues raised can be addressed through planning conditions.

 

Flooding, 31^st July 2025:

 

·         Cowes High Street.

 

Flash Flooding, and the result of high tides had a considerable impact in a number of shops on Cowes High Street.  Since the deluge, I have spoken to a number of businesses and residents affected at a time when shopkeepers were looking forward to the preparations for Cowes Week.  Whilst it was appreciated that drains and gullies were kept clear, and the High Street was cleaned in the early hours of 1^st August, some businesses relayed to me that the IW Council were less than sympathetic in removing damaged stock.  I continue to liaise with the IW Council on this.

 

·         Baring Road/ The Dottens.

 

Since the storm, I met on site with the Flood Officer, Sam and a local resident seeking options to mitigate against surface water in Baring Road.  Whilst there are historic gullies and drains adjoining Baring Road much of the floodwater on 31^st July seemed to bypass these.  Having since spoken to residents and the flood officer I am ever hopeful the matter will be resolved.

 

·         Elsewhere.

 

Stones washed down from Hilton Road have been cleared. Elsewhere, I was also approached by residents of Wyatts Lane, Northwood where surface water from drives and the lane itself came close to entering properties downhill from the roads camber.  Again, I understand that this is being looked into to find a solution.

 

Gurnard Beach Huts.

 

I attended two meetings on Gurnard Green to look at the impact of how land slippage affects Huts.

 

In the long term myself and hut owners would like to see improvements to retaining barriers between the Green and Huts and acknowledgement that clay from the ground continues to damage huts as it slips towards the beach. Hut owners are quite rightly concerned that many pay £1400 annually to rent their pitch from the IW Council, and for this they feel entitled (quite rightly) to greater support. 

 

This has come to a head as in many cases requests for support requested were seemingly ignored.  In liaison with one of the hut owners, we are collating questions to be responded to at a meeting in the coming weeks.

 

In the meantime, cracks formed during the dry weather are due to be infilled.

 

Street Lighting.

 

I have reported a number of street lights that continue in use during the day.  Apparently, according to Island Roads this is related to a software fault which the supplier is being sought to implement a resolution to.

 

Support for Cancer Treatment.

 

Cowes Town Council in partnership with Northwood House Trust offers free parking at Northwood House Car Park for residents undergoing treatment.  Following on from this fantastic initiative, I’ve been asked to look into improving information for patients and potentially offering parking during August.

 

Verification of Documents.

 

If you have documents that require verification etc., please contact the Magistrates Court in Sea Street, Newport (Tel: 01983 535100) giving plenty of notice. 

 

Whilst as a magistrate I am happy to verify documents, for me it is helpful to know beforehand precisely what is needed, and steps that can be taken to ensure everything is in place to make the process more seamless.  

 

School Numbers.

 

One of the priorities for the new Children’s and Education Committee will be to address the issue of falling school numbers and the impact this has upon school standards.

 

Despite their opposition to previous certain school closures. School and Diocese Leaders are realistic and continue to highlight that primary schools will need to close. Following recent proposals it remains important that school leaders, governors, staff and parents are front and centre of future engagement.

 

Because of Cowes Primary School’s recent closure, and the fact that Northwood and Lanes End Schools being academies, I would suggest currently there is no ability to close schools locally.   

 

Environmental Issues:

 

·         Noise.

 

I have received recent complaints of noisy vehicles thundering along roads in the area.  Whilst happy to assist on this, it would be really helpful if residents could provide details of registration numbers, times and car/bike details.  In the meantime, If you have a modified car please be aware..!

 

·         Seagulls.

 

Please be aware of your neighbours washing when feeding local gulls.  Each year, I receive complaints concerning this, and the knock-on impact that scattered seeds, grains and food waste has upon our resident rat population.

 

If you do want to feed birds and squirrels please ensure that you use feeders!

 

·         Disposable Barbecues.

 

Momentum seems to be growing to restrict the use of disposable barbecues in parks, woodland and on beaches.  Particularly with continued hot weather the Council’s Environment and Community Protection are investigating whether Public Space Protection Orders could be used.

 

Fuel Shortage.

 

I continue to liaise  with the IW Council regarding the fuel shortage which continues to impact on the Island, since Solent Fuels paused operations.  In my role as the link between Cowes Harbour Advisory Committee, I am working to see a longer term solution with the IW Council. 

 

Community Grant Scheme.

 

Community organisations, voluntary groups, charities, educational institutions, and town, parish, and community councils across the Isle of Wight are invited to apply for funding through the Isle of Wight Council’s Community Grant scheme, which is open for applications throughout September. The scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions’ Household Support Fund (HSF).

 

Funding is available for both new and existing initiatives that support residents facing financial challenges with food insecurity, utility-related costs, or other essential items. For further information please visit:

https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/cost-of-living/household-support-fund/apply-for-community-grant-hsf-organisations-only/

 

Planning Committee.

 

The Planning Committee approved proposals for an outline application to build up to 117 new dwellings, to the rear of the Premier Store in Gunville Road.  This application had previously been on hold to agree improved connectivity to Newport and highway improvements on Gunville Road.  Whilst I had initial concerns over the transferral of IW Council land, Councillors learnt this was due to Carisbrooke College transferring it status to an Academy rather than a LEA school.

 

Hedgerows Update.

 

September brings an end to the Bird Nesting Season, and means hedgerows and Rights of Way can properly be cut back

 

Whilst most enquiries made results in hedgerows being maintained, my request to deal with vegetation outside Bucklers View, Worsley Road has been referred back to the landowner.  In the meantime Island Roads have advised that this is not causing an immediate safety issue, ‘as cars frequently park at this location’.

 

Road Crossing Patrol (Lollipop) Person.

 

The IW Council are seeking to appoint a lollipop person to improve safety outside Gurnard Primary School in Baring Road. For details please visit: https://www.iow.gov.uk/jobs/detail/5687

 

The deadline for applications is 3^rd September 2025.

 

In the meantime, I have asked for increased coverage and enforcement outside the school.

 

Planning Enforcement.

 

I have one enforcement case that has materialised as a Planning Application, whilst I understand another is pending.

 

Elsewhere the unauthorised felling and removal of trees on neighbouring land, and unauthorised coastal protection works continue to be chased

 

Shore Path.

 

A resident complained to me regarding increased footfall on the Shore Path sea wall east of Gurnard Sailing Club.  From my perspective, I was surprised by this as I understood several years ago that all Shore Path residents supported the seawall becoming a Permissive Path, as this would allow the path to be closed when necessary, whilst at the same time allowing modest repairs by agencies being undertaken to protect the integrity of both the path and the wall. 

 

Street Signage.

Throughout the summer a number of street nameplates have been cleaned and repainted when too grubby.  I continue to chase updates on cyclists dismount street plates and moving forward concerning improved enforcement of the vehicle prohibition notices in Shooters Hill and Cowes High Street.

 

In the meantime, I am grateful for resident feedback being used to improve signage in the town.

 

Hedgehog Corner. Creating wild areas for our hedgehogs.

 

Our gardens can provide ideal habitat for hedgehogs, and a brilliant way to encourage prickly visitors is by embracing the wild! This summer, we’re championing the humble wild patch; a section of your garden given back to nature. Wilder gardens provide natural insect food and nesting materials for hedgehogs.

 

Wild areas are becoming increasingly scarce. This sadly is having an adverse effect on not only hedgehogs, but other wildlife too including birds, bats and pollinators. By embracing pockets of wild in our gardens, we can create microhabitats and provide natural food and shelter for hedgehogs. Gardens make up over 4300km2 of land in the UK, so together we can make a difference!

 

Decide on your wild patch today.

 

In a nutshell, also this month.

 

·         I’ve received many positive comments concerning the new footpath and 118 steps leading to Gurnard Beach from Worsley Road.

·         Following the storms, I have sought funds to repair the footpath linking Worsley Road to the new coastal path.

·         I joined the police following a neighbourhood matter in Cowes. As a result, I am hoping a Public Protection Notice has been served to protect those involved.

·         I have requested an update on the newly installed mobile homes at Sunnycott Caravan Park.

·         I met with officers to see repairs undertaken to the slipway on Shore Path.

·         In discussions with Westwood Close Residents, I’ve sought clarity on whether kerbside collections apply for residents.

·         I hosted a meeting to pursue High Street renewal funding for Sandown.

·         I have requested, and have been advised (given the positions I hold locally) that I will attend the Solent Forum.  This is as a non-voting member.

·         Following feedback that I’ve received, I continue to lobby locally for a lane rental scheme to be introduced on the Isle of Wight.  This I believe could reduce time taken up for road closures on the Island. For further details, please see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/street-works-lane-rental/lane-rental-schemes-guidance-for-english-highway-authorities

·         I hosted a meeting between the IW Association of Local Councils and the Council Leader.  At our next meeting discussion will take place concerning moving back to the Cabinet system, and scope for improving Parish liaison.

Isle of Wight Councillor's Report: August 2025

 

Surgeries.

 

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

11:15am-12:15pm, Thursday 14th August, Benches adj. Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.*

10:30-11am, Wednesday 20th August, Benches adj. Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.*

11-12pm, Thursday 28^th August, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Because in August I receive fewer calls particularly after Cowes Week I hold fewer surgeries. Whilst I am kept busy chasing a few matters up and attending meetings I am available throughout August and can be contacted.

* Update: Due to recent requests for support.  I am now holding extra surgeries this month.  These will be held on available benches adjacent to the kiosk at the very bottom of Shore Road, Gurnard.

 

Back Door Waste/ Recycling Collections.

 

For residents unable to leave their waste out, the Council provides a Collection Plus Service allowing householders to agree a safe collection point for their refuse. Visit: https://www.iow.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/additional-household-services/paid-for-waste-services/ or call 01983 823777 for details. The service costs £69 per year and is free mobility impaired residents

 

Cutting the cost of summer.

 

The Isle of Wight Guru has posted free and inexpensive places to visit for this summer.  Suggestions can be found here: https://www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/free-days-out-on-the-isle-of-wight.html

 

Details of cheap and free parking places can be found: https://www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/cheap-and-free-parking-on-the-isle-of-wight

 

IW Council Summer Activities.

 

The IW Council has launched its programme for Free summer holiday activities for young people. These can be found here: https://www.iow.gov.uk/news/free-activities-for-island-youngsters-this-summer/ 

 

Planning Application: 2x Mobile Classrooms Gurnard Primary School. Ref: 25/00586/FUL

 

Consultation continues on the school’s expansion by way of two mobile classrooms.  For further information please visit: https://publicaccess.iow.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SUQWWCIQGF200&activeTab=summary The deadline for comments is the 8^th August 2025.

 

Planning Applications: Drive thru’ McDonalds, Three Gates Road, Cowes. Application Pending.

 

A Pre-Application consultation has taken place on proposals for a new McDonald’s Drive Thru’ proposed for Three Gates Road. It is anticipated that the Planning Application will be advertised at some time during this month.  For details on the pre-application, please see: https://mcdonaldsconsultation.co.uk/cowes/feedback/

 

The Portland Inn update.

 

Mark and Kim has fed back that the Portland is due to be ‘rebuilt’.  On the pub’s Facebook page, the official plan will be shared once Star Pubs provide timescales…

 

Overgrown hedgerows.

 

Before the end of the nesting season (in September), these continue to be monitored by myself, Shaun our lovely Island Roads District Steward and a gang of Councillors and local residents. So far foliage outside Bucklers View and the junction with Westbrook Lane in Worsley Road and adjacent to Northwood School in Wyatts Lane, have been reported.

 

Please let me know of any other sites where brambles or overgrowth impacts on access!

 

Cowes Week 2025.

 

Following a fantastic Admirals Cup and Fastnet  Cowes Week takes place between 2-8^th August. For details visit: https://www.cowesweek.co.uk/web/code/php/main_c.php?map=cw25&ui=cw4&style=std&override=&section=home

 

Spencer’s Copse.

 

Ahead of schedule, improvements are now completed to the walk to the beach through Spencers Copse at the bottom of Worsley Road in Gurnard.

 

A huge thank you to Richard Murphy the landowner who has worked closely with the IW Council and its contractors Crown Park to see this walkway become part of the English Coastal Path. This followed discussions that I had with both Vicky and Mark Spencer now several years ago. 

 

In the meantime, I have requested repairs to be made to the ‘slipway’ linking the beach to Shore Path.

 

Gurnard Green.

 

For several weeks now, I have been attempting to set up a meeting with officers to discuss ongoing issues at the Green including concerns over damage to beach huts following land slippage on Gurnard Green. I hope this will take place, with matters being addressed in the weeks ahead!

 

Jet Ski (Personal Watercraft): Legislation.

 

Legislation has been introduced to prevent dangerous misuse of watercraft such as jet skis. New Powers mean that:

 

·         Anyone riding a jet ski recklessly or causing harm to others now face up to 2 yrs in prison and an unlimited fine.

·         Maritime and Coastguard Agency to be granted more powers to prosecute.

·         In addition the Maritime Police Unit also has powers under local the local bye-law.

Call 999 in emergency. Non-emergencies contact www.hampshire.police.uk. Other concerns call 101 straight away!

 

Litter Bins.

 

Like pulling teeth, the replacement litter bin for Princes Esplanade has now materialised! In the meantime, following the wait, it was necessary to contact waste contractors to ensure that bins are secured once emptied.

 

To note at this time of the year litter bins are collected on a daily basis, whilst dog bins are emptied Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. To note dog waste can be disposed of in litter bins.  This is less costly to the IW Council!

 

If a bin is full, please take rubbish home or dispose of any rubbish in a bin nearby.  Because of foxes and badgers please do not leave items at the base of bins as animals tend to scatter contents before bins are emptied the following morning.

 

Gurnard School Update.

 

Meetings continue to take place between Gurnard School, the IW Council and others following issues raised once the school reopens as the largest primary school on the Island in September. Items/ Action Points discussed includes:

 

·         Resurrection of the crossing patrol outside the school entrance. (Gurnard Parish Council agreed to fund this)

 

·         Improved alternative parking options nearby.  I am seeking to see the Cow Lane gate reopened to enhance pedestrian options from nearby.  To note, Gurnard School has signed up to improving parking enforcement outside the school.  With the No Loading restrictions now in place, there is no excuse to park dangerously.  I have reported concerns to both the police and parking enforcement in advance of September. 

 

·         Additional Funding from the expansion and school closure to fund longer term pedestrian improvements and could be enforced via Planning Conditions tied to the new mobile classrooms.

 

·         Discussions concerning staggered school start/ finishing times.

 

·         Improved enforcement of parking in restricted areas such as private/ unadopted roads and driveway access.

 

·         Improved support for children (particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities [SEND]) transitioning to Gurnard School.

 

Cowes High Street/ Shooters Hill. Conflict between cyclists, e-scooters and pedestrians.

 

I hosted a productive meeting to address concerns raised over pedestrians and cyclists conflict in Cowes Town centre.

 

With thanks to Mayor, Cllr. Stuart Ellis and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Lora Peacey Wilcox Cowes Town Council resolved:

 

·         Cowes Town Council are concerned over the contradiction between LCWIP Policy CC7 and Highway safety raised by both residents and traders in the LCWIP consultation.

 

·         Subject to costings consider funding towards:

o    Cycle Dismount Signs.

o    Camera and data analysis of vehicle movements in Cowes High Street and Shooters Hill

 

·         To support liaison with police over enforcement of the Prohibition of vehicles from midnight to 7am and 10am to midnight.

 

In the meantime, I’ve provided data from last year’s LCWIP consultation where residents cited incidents of conflict.  This will act as an evidence base to ensure action can be followed up.

 

Highway Trees.

 

I have taken up resident’s concerns with Island Roads who failed to water trees, left to die in Worsley Road.  In response to this, in a quote from Island Roads it had hoped that local residents ‘would assist in the watering… However, this does not appear to be the case’… 

 

Following up from this response, I asked Island Roads (who are contracted to water trees), what advice did they provide and to whom on this as neither myself or the Parish Council was made aware of this new initiative!

 

Island Roads have since apologised for their oversight and have assured they will be replacing lost trees..

 

Solent View Road and Woodvale Road to fully reopen!

 

With Solent View Road reopened in the middle of July and Woodvale Road set to re-open before August, I would like to thank residents for their patience.  Now open, I will be discussing with Southern Water what their plan B is, to counter sewage spills off Gurnard since the SUDs scheme couldn’t take place.

 

Cowes Floating Bridge Consultation.

 

The IW Council are undertaking a consultation on the Floating Bridge.  The consultation continues until 22^nd August. For details please visit: https://www.iow.gov.uk/news/share-your-views-on-the-future-of-cowes-floating-bridge/

 

In addition with respect to drop-ins that have been held in Cowes, East Cowes and Newport last month, there are online sessions taking place from 12-1:30pm, 7^th August and 6-7:30pm, 12^th August.  For details see the above link.  

 

Disposable Barbecues.

 

Please discard of used disposable barbecues sensibly!

 

This follows incidents of fires being caused to the countryside, and burns caused to little and big people when left on beaches. Please ensure barbecues and debris avoids plastic bins this follows several issues where numpties in Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin have disposed of barbecues in plastic bins causing fire damage..

 

Transport for South East Meeting.

 

I attended the Transport for South East Meeting, where I highlighted concerns of the Island over ferries and the need for support.  Following feedback from residents and businesses this is now a priority for TFSE within its Transport Strategy.

 

Update from the Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee.

 

As a key member of the new Committee, it was agreed (my interpretation) to make the following key priorities:

 

·         Local Transport Plan 4 and its consultation (due to take place this Autumn)

·         Extending the Geographical scope of the existing Newport and Ryde Commercial Frontages Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (This myself and Cllr Ian Ward is leading upon)

·         Medina Crossing Strategy. (This to consider feedback on the Floating Bridge consultation and long term alternatives)

·         Improving Student Accommodation and skills.

·         Improved access with accelerated action on improving infrastructure and access to green links and rights of ways. 

 

Update from the Environment and Community Protection Committee.

 

Within the Committee discussions (my interpretation) took place concerning:

 

·         Investigating creating a Public Space Protection Order (bye-law) for Disposable Barbecues.

·         Waste:  I suggested improving advice concerning the disposal of pharmaceutical waste and separation by residents.

·         An overview was given concerning the cleaning of slipways and the Council’s statutory beach cleansing requirements.

 

Update from the Children’s Services, Education and Lifelong Learning Committee.

 

Within the Committee discussions (my interpretation) took place concerning:

 

·         The impact of falling school numbers and the impact that this will have on schools and the Education Authority.

·         The cost to the Isle of Wight of education children with specific educational (SEND)/ cultural needs.

·         I suggested to have over 400 children requesting and still awaiting mental health support from was unacceptable.

·         The issue of providing educational support for children from families claiming asylum on the Island was discussed. I understand that the local quota from Government for these children stands at 23. The reason why 15 cannot receive the support within Island Schools, is due to the fact that the Island has no provision for families with cultural diverse needs and therefore education and support needs to take place off-Island    

 

Southern Regional Flood and Coastal Committee.

 

I attended the most recent SRFCC Committee.  At the meeting, I supported a number of regional flood mitigation measures including support for a school in Brighton and Hove that last year needed to close for 30 days due to sewage and flood water leaks. It was reported that in Brighton the combined sewage constructed by engineers 170 years ago for a town of 30,000 struggles.  This applies across the region where growth is at creaking point.  It also demonstrates the brilliance of our Victorian forefathers in creating a visionary infrastructure.

 

In addition there was discussion on the deterioration of Victorian groynes across the region.  Concern was expressed of the lack of Government support to the Environment Agency to assist.

 

In the meantime some of the priorities I supported at the SRFCC include the following:

 

·         Supporting the short term protection of Hurst Spit.  (This offers some protection to the Isle of Wight)

·         Increasing the grant from £2m to £4m by the SRFCC to support the effects from Surface Water Flooding. (I have ensured previously that the Isle of Wight takes advantage of this support, due to increase)

·         In light of the lack of Government support, I requested providing financial incentives to support farmers storing water.

 

Hot Weather.

 

Please ensure that furry friends are kept cool and watered during hot weather.  In the past I’ve received distress calls from neighbours regarding barky dogs being left at home by ‘mums and dads’.

 

Planning Committee Update.

 

Last month I rejoined the IW Council’s Planning Committee, having observed meetings in person for the last four years. (I remain the longest serving member of the Planning Committee)

 

Of key, was the application for a McDonald’s Drive Thru’ opposite the Spithead Industrial Park in Lake. This I voted against, as I shared the concern of officers over the applicant not testing the marketplace to locate the restaurant in Town Centres nearby. Despite my standpoint and that of officers who recommended refusal, in light of resident feedback, members of the Committee approved proposals.     

 

Local Government Conference.

 

I had the privilege of being one of five Councillors who attended the LGA Conference.  Of note were sessions on the Lane Rental Schemes, recently piloted in four highway authorities.  These schemes have had a positive impact through charging utility companies during roadworks. In addition, I attended sessions on the use of AI when detecting highway and utility defects, staff recruitment and retention, the impact of extreme weather and addressing mayoral authorities and their impact.

 

Creating Emergency Grab Bags.

 

Increasingly residents are encouraged to have Emergency Grab Bags to hand to ensure that necessities are at hand. Emergency Grab Bags should have essentials, that are in an accessible place ready to go.  The bag contents will vary depending on your needs but may include:

 

Emergency items

 

·         Prescribed Medication, inc. respiratory aids. ·         Hearing Aids. ·         Glasses/ Contact Lenses.

·         Useful phone numbers. ·         Mobile phone and charger. ·         House and Car Keys.

·         Money and Credit Cards. ·         First Aid Kit. ·         Basic Toiletries: Toothbrush/ Tootpaste/ sanitary towels

 

Other Essential Items. This will vary according to your needs and the weather.

 

·         Supplies for small children/ babies. ·         Change of clothing. ·         Nappies and wipes. ·         Toys, books and activities.

·         Food and water (canned/ dried food, snacks) ·         Food Bowls, sterilising tablets & bottles. ·         Special Food Needs ·         Clothing and Equipment

·         Warm, wind and rainproof clothing. ·         Strong shoes for outdoors ·         Waterproof torch batteries ·         Radio & Batteries (check regularly)

 

Other Items to Consider.

 

· Copies of Insurance Documents ·     Anti-Bacterial Hand Wipes. · Pen Knife, String, & Duct Tape

· Blankets & Sleeping Bags ·Sun Hats & Sunscreen ·   Rubbish Bags.

·  Whistle. ·   Thermos Flask. ·  Note Pad, Pencil, Pencil Sharpener & Crayons.

 

Hedgehog Corner.

 

Tips for keeping your Hedgehogs Happy this summer!

 

·         A dish of fresh water can be vital in hot weather

·         Pile up some logs in the corner of the garden

·         A diversity of plants rich in nectar will encourage insects

·         A 13 cm hole will allow hedgehogs access through fences

·         Avoid treating your lawn with herbicide

·         No single garden is large enough

·         Hogs make nests from deciduous leaves.

Also this month, in a nutshell:

·         Residents contacted me following pigs heads being washed up at Gurnard. Incidents are being reported to the IW Council.

·         As a matter of urgency, I supported repairs taking place at Northwood Recreation Ground.

·         I have chased up two separate matters with the legal department over property transfers.

·         I provided support over the smell of burning which occurred in the Jordan Valley. This was reported to Environment Officers.

·         More lost litterbins (Arctic Park) have been reported for replacement.

·         I have requested signage following parked vehicles using Cow Lane. I am hopeful this will be in place before September.

·         At Full Council, I was nominated to serve the IW Council as representative for Cowes Harbour Commissioners. This was an issue that I lobbied the IW Council for several years ago, and am pleased this was implemented.

·         I am supporting the IW Council promoting ethical investments for its pension fund.

·         In Cowes I have been asked to intervene in a neighbourhood dispute.

·         With support of Cllr Phil Jordan, I’ve resurrected monthly meetings with local councils to liaise with the IWC leadership.

·         The viaduct on the Cowes to Newport cycleway at Dodnor is due to close for seven weeks from mid-September.

·         I redirected a resident to their ward councillor concerning parking issues in Cowes.

·         A number of residents are being connected to new water butts. To note the scheme currently does not include Northwood.