The Isle of Wight’s political, tourism and transport leaders have made pledges that, they say, Islanders can hold them to over the next year.
During the State of the Island Travel and Tourism Debate on 12th June, panellists were asked what realistic commitment they could make that Islanders could hold them to over the next 12 months.
Isle of Wight Council leader Jonathan Bacon was highly critical of the authority’s past reputation and said his priority was to make the Council a force for improvement rather than obstruction.
Cllr Bacon said:
“We have had a Council which for many years has quite rightly had a poor reputation for infighting, argument, tribalism and conflict. Its effectiveness has been limited. It has been seen as a block rather than a body that can help or achieve anything.
“I would like to achieve a Council that can work together as one body to assist the Island and work with the combined authority.”
Strategic Director of Community Services Simon Moon, who took up his role just weeks ago and is responsible for the Island’s road network, acknowledged public frustration over roadworks and pledged to rebuild trust.
Mr Moon said:
“The Council doesn’t have the trust and confidence of residents around the issue of roadworks. In the next 12 months, I need to rebuild that trust with you. This needs greater oversight, greater accountability and improved communication.
“I’d like to come back in a year’s time and, if I’ve made a difference, that would be great to hear.”
Visit Isle of Wight Chief Executive Dominic Wray committed to improving communication and coordination across the tourism sector over the coming year.
Mr Wray told the audience that his organisation would work to bring businesses and stakeholders together more effectively while promoting the Island as a destination.
Meanwhile, Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley received applause after highlighting opportunities for young people who do not pursue higher education.
Mr Quigley said:
“My main focus is to get all pupils leaving school and not going to university pathways into decent employment and work experience. At the moment, we have a lost generation.”
Red Funnel Chief Executive Fran Collins received a smattering of applause after pledging to restore confidence in the cross-Solent operator.
Ms Collins said:
“We will rebuild your trust in us one journey at a time.”
However, she cautioned that passengers should not expect perfection.
“We will not get it right every time.”
Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson said it was more difficult for him to make a specific pledge as a member of the Opposition, but stressed that improving ferry services remained one of his priorities.
Mr Robertson said:
“There is no other English island with a population greater than that of Bembridge. I’m seeking some shift or sign that the Government recognises what it’s like living on an island.”
The Conservative MP said he hoped to maintain pressure on ferry operators through regular six-monthly meetings and continued campaigning on behalf of Island residents.
