First Bay Place Plan consultation activities to be hosted this month

From the 11th – 13th July, a panel of regeneration experts will be delivering an array of in-person workshops to understand the needs of local communities across lifestyles, economic development, and tourism for the Bay area.

On the invitation, islanders are invited to “explore innovative solutions, share insights, and shape a future that embraces sustainability, inclusivity, and smart growth.”

The aim is to work closely with residents, businesses and visitors who share a common interest and would benefit from an approach that unifies them, while celebrating their unique characteristics and address the economic, social, and environmental challenges and the opportunities in each location.

The variety of consultation activities will bring about several key outcomes and next steps for the place plan, namely that people “engage in meaningful discussions with community leaders, decision-makers, and fellow residents who share a passion for the area's success”, allow for networking “with like-minded individuals and forge connections that will last beyond the event” and give islanders a sense of being “part of a collective movement to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and thriving Bay Area.”

Councillor Julie Jones Evans, cabinet member for Economy, Regeneration, Culture and Leisure said: “In the current climate, the biggest prospect for securing improvements in the Bay is to develop a partnership-based plan that project funders will support.

We have proven in Newport, Ryde, and East Cowes how this approach works, securing over £10m of government support to tackle local issues.

“I look forward to hearing the views of local people and businesses on what needs tackling first.”

Councillors from the three Parish councils said: “We look forward to working with the consultants while they shape the plan for the future and help to deliver the recommendations from the final report.

“This will undoubtedly be a big step forward for the Bay area.”

Beyond Boundaries: Shaping the Future of the Bay Area takes place from 11th – 13th July at the Broadway Centre, Sandown PO36 9GA.