The Isle of Wight’s voice can be strengthened by building closer relationships with neighbouring authorities across the Solent, according to the chairman of the Isle of Wight Council.
Councillor Ian Dore has joined civic leaders from across the region at a series of engagements in Southampton and Portsmouth aimed at strengthening relationships and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
The engagements included a civic day hosted by the Lord Mayor of Southampton on Monday, followed by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth’s annual civic dinner on Wednesday evening.
During his visit to Southampton, Cllr Dore toured the National Oceanography Centre, including research vessel RRS James Cook, learning about developments in marine science, innovation and autonomous technology.
The delegation also visited Mayflower Studios and the Mayflower Theatre to learn more about Southampton’s cultural and creative sector.
Cllr Dore has said:
“Being present and engaged with our neighbours across the Solent matters for the Isle of Wight.
“Our relationships with Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the wider region are about much more than geography. We share many of the same opportunities and challenges, and good relationships allow us to talk openly, exchange ideas and learn from one another.
Article continues below this advertisement “There is real value in knowing the people at the other end of the telephone. Whether conversations are about the Armed Forces Covenant, skills, employment, culture or economic opportunity, those relationships make collaboration easier and help ensure the Isle of Wight has a visible voice.”
The visit to the National Oceanography Centre also provided an opportunity to discuss the future of marine and maritime careers, including opportunities within science, engineering, technology, robotics and seafaring.
Cllr Dore added:
“For an Island, the sea is part of who we are, but it should also be part of how we think about our future.
“I hope young Islanders see opportunities like these as being within their reach, while also recognising the skills, businesses and talent we already have here and how they can connect with opportunities across the wider Solent.”
Reflecting on the visits to Southampton’s cultural venues, Cllr Dore said the aim was not to simply replicate what was being done elsewhere, but to share ideas and learn from different approaches.
He pointed to Quay Arts, Medina Theatre and Department in Ryde as examples of the Isle of Wight’s own creative sector.
Cllr Dore continued:
“Visiting Mayflower Studios and the Mayflower Theatre was a chance to see the creative work taking place there and think about the role culture and performance play in our communities.
“It is not about simply copying what others are doing. It is about seeing different approaches, asking questions and bringing inspiration home.
“There is a great deal to gain from sharing ideas and experience across the Solent, and that exchange should work both ways, because the Isle of Wight has plenty to contribute too.”
The council chairman said that while civic engagements can appear ceremonial, they also provide opportunities to build partnerships and raise the Island’s profile.
He concluded:
“Strong partnerships are built on trust, familiarity and a willingness to talk.
“Part of my responsibility as chair is to champion the Island, listen to what others are doing, make connections and ensure the Isle of Wight is present, visible and heard.
“Whether here at home or representing the Island further afield, the aim is the same, to strengthen the relationships that can help our Island thrive.”
The only way to strengthen Solent ties is to build a
bridge or tunnel.
FACT!