'Islanders Before Party Politics' - Council Aims Set Out

Leading Isle of Wight councillors set out their priorities for the Island ahead of a decisive meeting yesterday evening (Wednesday, May 27).

The largest camps include the Isle of Wight Council Reform Group, Island First Network and the Liberal Democrats.

Cllr Andrew Garratt, Liberal Democrat group leader, said: “Two issues stood out in the election: cost of living worries, and the impact of poorly coordinated major roadworks.

“Lib Dem councillors will work for proper support for those most at risk of financial hardship and that the council has tackling poverty as an overarching priority.

“Major roadworks caused massive disruption to residents with businesses losing vital trade. We are already pressing for a complete rethink of roadworks planning with effective consultation backed up by transparent decision-making.

“We will also prioritise protecting services for vulnerable people, for developments to deliver housing that Islanders can afford to rent or buy, and for real investment in the Island from the new devolved combined authority.”

Cllr Ed Blake, Conservative group leader, said: “Local Conservatives now play a key role in whatever form the new council takes as we sit clearly separate from the other groups.

“After five years of chaos, inaction, and delays under the Independent and Green Alliance, the Isle of Wight Council needs to step up and deliver for residents.

“Our council tax rates are one of the highest in the country, and yet we remain rooted to the bottom of most league tables.

“Cllr Matt Price and I are keen to see proper plans come forward for key roads and their futures including the Military Road and Down End.

“Also, as powers look to be shifted to the mainland under devolution plans, we will use our knowledge and experience to push firmly for the Island to keep hold of as much local accountability as possible.”

Claire Critchison, Green Party group leader, said: “After five years working with a large team of independents at County Hall, the first ever Green Party group on the Isle of Wight Council will prioritise improved transport links, including bus, rail, cycle and through working with community groups to get better ferry services.

“Our Green councillors will tackle improving water quality across the Island, look to introduce quiet roads in rural areas, work towards financial sustainability for the council, and equality of health and education outcomes, especially for SEND children.

“All Islanders – young and old – deserve an Island which thrives and where the community pulls together and includes everyone.

“The Isle of Wight Green Group will work with councillors from all backgrounds to achieve these aims.”

Cllr Chris Jarman, who leads the All for Islanders group, said: “Our priority as All for Islanders will be to put residents before party politics and to help restore trust in County Hall.

“We will support proposals that put the needs of Islanders first, while pushing for better governance, transparency, and eliminating waste.”

The councillor said Islanders need practical delivery, not point-scoring, before listing clearer decision-making, structurally balancing the council’s finances to stop the ‘accelerated decline’ into ‘unserviceable debt’, better scrutiny of procurement and expenditure and sustainable transport.