Isle Of Wight Council ‘Should Remain Independent’ Under New Local Government Shake-Up Plans

The Isle of Wight Council should continue to stand alone as an independent authority – that’s the message from 12 local authorities across Hampshire and the Island, in a landmark proposal for how local government could be reorganised.

Published today, the 206-page document Close enough to be local, big enough to stay strong sets out a new vision for the region, recommending the creation of five unitary councils: four on the mainland (replacing 14 existing authorities) and the Isle of Wight keeping its current position.

The joint plan comes after the government invited councils to submit proposals to simplify local government structures and improve efficiency.

Ministers want to replace the two-tier county and district model with larger unitary councils and create Strategic Authorities with elected Mayors.

Under today’s proposal, the Island’s unique geography and service needs are highlighted as reasons why it should remain independent. It argues that being a standalone authority allows the Isle of Wight Council to deliver tailored services while protecting the Island’s identity.

The document states:

“The Island’s unique geography, accessible only by ferry, creates distinct logistical and service delivery challenges that are best addressed through a locally focused model.

"Maintaining the Isle of Wight as an independent or unitary authority will ensure it continues to respond to local needs while standing alongside the new mainland unitary councils through an enhanced partnership.”

Together, the participating councils – including Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester and the New Forest – say their approach strikes the right balance:

“Unlike other proposals, we believe our approach means the best of both worlds: councils that are big enough to deliver major services and be financially sustainable, but local enough to understand communities so they can tailor services more closely to their needs.”

The new model is estimated to deliver savings of at least £63.9 million a year while improving coordination of services.

Isle of Wight councillors will consider the plan at a Full Council meeting on 17 September, ahead of the government’s submission deadline of 26 September.