There is still time to reserve your free tickets for next Friday’s State of the Island Debate 2026 – Travel and Tourism Special, an event expected to be one of the year’s most significant public meetings.
This year’s panel brings together 6 senior figures whose decisions shape daily life on the Island: Fran Collins (CEO, Red Funnel), Simon Moon (Strategic Director of Community Services, Isle of Wight Council), Councillor Jonathan Bacon (Leader, Isle of Wight Council), Joe Robertson MP (Isle of Wight East), Richard Quigley MP (Isle of Wight West) and Dominic Wray (CEO, Visit Isle of Wight).
The debate will be chaired by Marc Morgan‑Huws, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Topics covered will include ferry operations, transport resilience, road management, tourism strategy and the wider economic outlook. The first half of the evening will focus on pre‑submitted questions from readers of Island Echo and the Isle of Wight Observer, with the floor then opened up to the audience.
Darren Toogood, Editor and Publisher Island Echo, says:
“Islanders rarely get the chance to put questions directly to the people who make decisions that affect their everyday lives. On Friday, 6 senior figures have kindly agreed to answer points and questions raised by Islanders, and we want as many people as possible to take advantage of this opportunity”.
Carole Dennett, Editor of the IW Observer, adds:
“Our readers talk to us constantly about their views on ferries, roads and tourism. This debate gives them a genuine platform to be heard by those who can make a difference. It will be lively, constructive and hopefully useful for all involved.”
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A voluntary collection will be held for the Daisy Ring Bus, which supports Island cancer patients travelling to mainland hospitals.
Islanders with questions or views they would like to be part of the debate should send them to [email protected] or call 01983 221050 during office hours.
The debate takes place at All Saints’ Church, Ryde, on Friday 12th June. Doors open at 18:00 for a 19:00 start, with refreshments available.
Free tickets can be reserved at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/iwobserver/2228084 or by calling 01983 221050.
