Island Partners Tackle Travel Disruption And Communication

Travel disruption, changing weather conditions and how well residents are kept informed were top of the agenda at the latest meeting of the Island Transport and Infrastructure Forum.

The group — made up of key transport and infrastructure organisations across the Isle of Wight — meets regularly to share concerns and work on ways to improve everyday travel for Islanders and visitors.

Among those attending the most recent meeting were representatives from Red Funnel, Wightlink, Hovertravel, South Western Railway, Southern Vectis, Island Roads, the NHS, the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce and several Isle of Wight Council departments.

The session was described as one of the most wide-ranging and constructive in recent months.

One of the main issues raised was the disruption caused by roadworks, particularly those announced at short notice.

Several members highlighted frustration with the number of Southern Water projects classed as “emergency works”, which can leave little time for operators or the public to plan ahead.

To address this, the Forum plans to invite senior representatives from major utility companies to its next meeting, with the aim of improving coordination and communication around planned and emergency works.

Attendees also reviewed the council’s upcoming Economic Growth Strategy, stressing that its proposals need to be clearly backed by evidence.

They said separating factual analysis from opinion will be crucial for future transport and infrastructure decisions.

There was also an update on proposals to introduce PlusBus on the Island — a ticketing scheme that allows passengers to combine rail and bus journeys.

However, members expressed concern that many passengers are still unaware of the through-ticketing options that already exist for rail, ferry and bus travel via certain apps.

They agreed that clearer public communication is needed.

Transport operators shared growing concerns about the impact of climate and environmental change.

Issues discussed included the movement of sand and shingle around terminal areas, tidal variations, increased surface water and the risk of landslips.

A dedicated workshop is now being planned to bring together operators, the Environment Agency, council teams and port authorities to review what action may be needed.

The Forum also discussed the impact of the Emissions Trading Scheme on ferry operating costs, with concerns set to be passed on to the Department for Transport and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Despite the challenges, the meeting highlighted strong and increasing collaboration between transport partners — from joint ticketing initiatives and ferry refurbishments to the rollout of new electric buses and coordination during major roadworks.

Members said they want to ensure the public hears more about this progress.

The Forum also looked at improving communication through councillors and MPs, and noted that a forthcoming leadership change at Visit Wight could provide fresh opportunities to promote the Island.

The Forum’s next meeting will focus on three key themes:Healthcare transport needs, mobility for young people, and the impact of utility works on the Island’s network.