The Isle of Wight Local Constituency Labour Party recognises the funding challenges that the Isle of Wight Council faces in setting its budget, but highlights the Labour Government’s commitment to supporting the Island through significant additional funding for key infrastructure, social care, and economic development.
In a major boost for local regeneration, the Ryde Town Board has been allocated £20million to drive economic growth and enhance community infrastructure. This investment aims to revitalise the area, attract new businesses, and improve facilities for residents and visitors alike. Although this money was allocated under the previous Conservative Government.
To address growing pressures on social care and children’s services, the Isle of Wight Council has been provided with an additional £15.8million to ensure vulnerable residents receive the support they need. While further funding discussions continue, this marks a crucial step in securing essential services for the Island.
The last government denied additional funding for fixing potholes on the Isle of Wight, because of the PFI contract with Island Roads. Recognising the importance of road maintenance, the Labour government has allocated £1.6million to tackle potholes and improve local roads. This funding will enhance road safety and accessibility, benefiting both residents and tourists.
Despite these positive steps, the Isle of Wight continues to have unique challenges that require further financial support.
Phil Attfield, Chair Isle of Wight Labour Party, says:
“The Fair Funding Review for local authorities was abandoned by the last government in 2020. In the recent Devolution White Paper, the Labour Government recognises that current funding mechanisms are outdated, inefficient and poor value for money. The Island’s Constituency Labour Party is committed to supporting successful future Labour Council candidates to work with government officials to secure fair funding for the Island’s needs.”
I quote from the news report
“Although this money was allocated under the previous Conservative Government”.
Note the Labour Party didn’t actually mention this in their point scoring quote.
Allocated yes, but not spent. It sat in the reserves fund the Tories are now banging on about whilst trying, and failing, to do simple sums correctly.
Do you mean the reserve fund the Alliance leadership on the Island have already ‘issed up the wall…
Yet again the party politics game. Why waste energy on mud slinging when they all should be prioritising the betterment of the Island.
A reduction in Council tax islandwide would be
appreciated