Floating Bridge, Tidal Sea Pool And Isle Of Wight Festival Among Key Council Decisions

From a new Floating Bridge to a tidal sea pool and the long-term future of the Isle of Wight Festival — a series of major decisions have been made at County Hall this month.

Across October, councillors have debated and approved a string of landmark projects and policy moves covering regeneration, environment, and local government reform.

Devolution deal moves forward

On October 1, the Isle of Wight Council voted to back, in principle, the creation of a new Hampshire and Solent Mayoral Combined County Authority — part of the Government’s “English devolution” plans.

Described by Whitehall as “the greatest transfer of power out of Westminster this century,” the proposal was supported by 26 councillors, with nine voting against.

Green light for Yaverland tidal sea pool

Just over a week later, on October 9, the Policy, Finance and Resources Committee unanimously supported the “visionary” Isle of Wight Sea Pool project at Yaverland.

The non-profit scheme aims to build a free, year-round tidal pool, designed to promote health, wellbeing, and appreciation of the Island’s coastal environment.

Director Sue Barker told councillors the pool would be “a unique, low-maintenance and sustainable sea water asset”.

The council approved a Letter of Intent, paving the way for IWSP to seek funding, with the authority confirming it would lease council-owned land if planning and consultation requirements are met.

Floating Bridge Six replacement moves ahead

On October 16, the Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee voted to move forward with plans to replace Floating Bridge Six.

The committee rejected officer advice to modify the troubled vessel and instead agreed to test market interest for a brand-new ferry, capable of at least five return crossings per hour and designed with sustainability in mind.

A further update is expected at the committee’s January 2026 meeting, when a final decision could be made.

Isle of Wight Festival secured into the 2030s

And finally, on October 23, councillors approved a seven-year extension to the Isle of Wight Festival’s land licence — securing the event’s future through to 2033, with the option to extend to 2036.

The deal was agreed by the Environment and Community Protection Committee, ensuring one of the Island’s biggest cultural events continues well into the next decade.