Chair And Leader Of County Hall To Be Elected At Pivotal Meeting Today

A chair and leader of the Isle of Wight Council will be elected at a pivotal County Hall meeting this evening (Wednesday).

Councillors are due to vote on who they would like to fill the key roles as well as a new committee system constitution put forward for approval.

“The Isle of Wight Council has navigated a year of preparation and anticipation,” current leader Cllr Phil Jordan said in his annual report, ahead of the meeting.

“The Local Government Review and devolution discussions are on the horizon, promising opportunities to enhance local governance and bring decision-making closer to our communities.

“Our collective efforts have laid a strong foundation for the future, and I am confident that we will continue to build on this momentum, working together to achieve our shared goals for the Isle of Wight.”

Achievements Cllr Jordan pointed to include the reopening of Ventnor’s Eastern Esplanade in May last year with £4.8 million of council investment into new sea defences, the Isle of Wight Poverty Reduction Strategy for 2024 – 2029 – ‘a significant move to combat poverty’ and the opening of the Ryde Interchange.

In a separate annual report, County Hall chair Cllr Karl Love said:

“It’s been a busy few months for the civic team with a lot happening in the last few weeks.

"We use the civic team to inspire, celebrate and promote our council, while managing the important business at full council meetings. David and I have enjoyed our time in office and thank you all for the opportunity.”

Tomorrow’s full council meeting begins at 6pm.