The Island Ferry User Group met on Tuesday and discussed a number of issues and items on their agenda, including updates from the local user groups who meet at Cowes and Ryde and presentations from senior management from both Red Funnel and Wightlink.
The group were impressed by what will be achieved over the next two to three years and these investment plans, together with investments announced by Hovertravel, collectively amount to well over £100 million.
The detailed presentations from Red Funnel and Wightlink mark a significant commitment to the Island and are said to go a long way to addressing the needs and expectations of Islanders raised in recent years for a modern cross-Solent ferry service. The IFUG welcomed this clear commitment of finance and resources, some of which is being provided through the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and the group saw this as an essential element of Island infrastructure improvement.
The Infrastructure Task Force was also on the IFUG agenda and again there was positive commitment around the room for this initiative with a number of the attendees offered to support it and be involved in helping to achieve the best outcomes for the Island.
Councillor Dave Stewart, who currently chairs this forum, said:
“This was an excellent meeting with a cross section of representatives who included, business representatives, ferry services, bus services, councillors and residents all with a clear goal of contributing to improving our Island needs.
“I was particularly pleased to hear the offers of support and commitment to the Infrastructure Task force and I will ensure our MP is fully aware of this and is able to take up these offers of engagement – as these are the kind of individuals who will make a difference for our Island in the future. I will also be offering to be involved in the task force as I see it holds real benefit for everyone who lives and works in our community and that’s what I have been elected to do”.
