Ventnor Winter Gardens Workshop Announced As Next Step In Community Value Process

The Ventnor Winter Gardens Steering Group has announced the next stage in the Asset of Community Value (ACV) process — a structured community workshop to develop realistic proposals for the future use of Ventnor Winter Gardens.

The workshop will take place on the morning of Saturday 7th March in Ventnor.

The announcement follows what the Steering Group describes as positive progress, including direct discussions with the building’s owner, Kevin Sussmilch.

He is said to be looking forward to hearing constructive, forward-thinking ideas generated through the session.

Daniel Ruiz, speaking on behalf of the Steering Group, said:

“This is about solutions, not slogans. We need practical thinking — ideas that could genuinely operate, attract people to Ventnor, and create lasting community value.”

Structured And Solution-Focused

The workshop will bring together a limited number of participants who are prepared to contribute seriously to the process.

Attendees will be asked to arrive with both:

• One simple idea

• One more ambitious proposal

Each idea should outline:

• What it is

• How it could work

• When it might realistically be delivered

• Who could help support it

The session will be professionally facilitated and structured around:

• Open brainstorming

• Combining ideas into phased plans

• Identifying risks and opportunities

• Clarifying practical next steps

Clear Ground Rules

The Steering Group has emphasised that the workshop will operate under clear principles:

• Positive and constructive discussion

• A forward-looking mindset

• No revisiting past grievances

• A focus on what can be done

Places are limited due to space constraints and to help ensure a productive working environment.

How To Request Participation

Residents, businesses, cultural organisations and individuals who believe they can make a constructive contribution are invited to apply.

Applicants should email:vwg1936.sg@gmail.com

Applications must include:

• Name and contact details

• A short pen portrait (maximum 40 words)

• Confirmation of willingness to prepare ideas and work within the workshop principles

Successful applicants will receive further details and preparation notes.

Daniel added:

“Ventnor has creativity, intelligence and energy.

"This workshop is about channelling that into something credible and achievable.”