Surgeries.
10:30-11am, Thursday 2nd April; Gurnard Press
and Bistro, Worsley Road, Gurnard.
11:30-12pm, Thursday 9th April, Phoenix Café,
Gurnard Pines, Cockleton Lane, Gurnard.
4:30-5pm, Monday 13th April: Cowes Library,
Beckford Road, Cowes.
5:30-6pm, Monday 13th April: Isle of Wight
Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.
5:30-6pm, Wednesday 8th April; The Portland,
Worsley Road, Gurnard.
10:30-11am; Wednesday 15th April, Benches adj.
Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.
11-11:30am; Wednesday 15th April, The Woodvale
Hotel, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.
10:30-11am, Wednesday 23rd April, Coffee and
Cake at All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard
5:30-6pm, Wednesday 29th April; The Portland,
Worsley Road, Gurnard.
11:45-12:30pm, Thursday 30th 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
7th 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 20th
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 15th 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 30th March to
Friday 10th 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.
