An iconic propeller from the world’s largest passenger hovercraft has been refurbished and now takes pride of place as part of Isle of Wight Council regeneration works in East Cowes.
Visitors to the town’s waterfront can enjoy the striking new landmark, as a 4-bladed propeller from the famous Princess Maragret SR.N4 now sits as a permanent tribute to one of the most recognisable chapters in the Island’s maritime and transport heritage.
The monument has been installed adjacent to Albany Green as part of wider regeneration works in East Cowes, as a new public realm seating area was also opened today (Monday).
Standing just under seven metres tall, the monument features a red-painted pylon and propeller shaft, with black blades finished with distinctive red tips.
The propeller was first brought onto the Island in a move organised by Lin Kemp and supported by Councillor Karl Love. The historic boat part is on permanent loan from The Hovercraft Museum in Lee-on-the-Solent to East Cowes Town Council.
Red Funnel and Wight Shipyard both supported the effort, with Wight Shipyard providing initial storage before the propeller transferred to the care of the Classic Boat Museum.
It has remained stored in pieces in the museum since.
The propeller has now been rebuilt and has found a permanent home at the Albany Green public realm, where funding for the monument has been provided by the Isle of Wight Council and GKN, with support on construction from Wight Shipyard.
The SR-N4 hovercraft was the world’s largest passenger hovercraft ever built, carrying passengers and vehicles across the English Channel between England and France for several decades.
An interpretation board installed alongside the monument provide visitors with information about the history, development and operation of the SR.N4, helping to bring this remarkable story to life for future generations.
Information on the board has been researched and supported by Sarah and David Burdett and their team at the East Cowes Heritage Centre.
Standing tall right on East Cowes’ waterfront, the propeller now serves as a reminder of the hovercraft’s pioneering role in British engineering and its enduring connection to the Isle of Wight.
Councillor Karl Love, ward member for East Cowes and East Cowes Town Council councillor, said:
“This project has been many years in the making, and it is fantastic to finally see this remarkable piece of hovercraft history restored and displayed for everyone to enjoy. The Princess Margaret and the SR.N4 fleet were icons of British engineering and hold a special place in the memories of many Islanders and visitors alike.
“I am particularly pleased that the propeller, which was brought to the Island through the efforts of local people and organisations, has now found a permanent home on the East Cowes waterfront. I would like to thank the Hovercraft Museum for entrusting East Cowes with this important artefact and allowing it to come to the Island, ensuring its story can continue to be shared with residents and visitors alike.
“My thanks also go to everyone who has played a part in preserving, restoring and installing this monument, ensuring future generations can learn about and appreciate East Cowes’ contribution to maritime innovation and engineering excellence.”
Councillor Tracey Reardon, Mayor of East Cowes, said:
“East Cowes Town Council has been at the heart of this project from the outset, working with partners to ensure this important piece of history could be preserved and showcased in the town where it belongs. We are delighted to have taken ownership of the propeller on behalf of the community and will continue to care for it as part of our ongoing stewardship of Albany Green.”
Garry Hernes, Site Director, GKN Aerospace Cowes, said:
“This year marks the 125th anniversary of aerospace on the Isle of Wight and this restoration project is a fitting tribute to that heritage.
“The Island continues to play a crucial role within the global aerospace industry and is today known worldwide for our manufacturing expertise, supporting everything from flying boats to the world’s most advanced jets.
“GKN Aerospace is proud to be part of this project, both celebrating our storied history and looking forward to the next chapter of the Isle of Wight’s aerospace industry leadership.”
A spokesperson for the Hovercraft Museum said:
“The Hovercraft Museum was delighted to loan an SRN4 pylon and propeller to East Cowes Town Council for display at the Columbine Hangar.
“A fitting place for such a grand display, being such a significant location in the production and development of the Hovercraft.
“As part of the charity aims this loan will enable a wider audience to see, learn and marvel at the sheer size and technical development of the true British invention of the hovercraft. A wonder of engineering and still to this day an iconic form of transport.”
