Draft Island Transport Plan set to be discussed

A new long-term transport strategy for the Isle of Wight is set to be discussed by councillors at County Hall next week.

The draft Island Transport Plan (ITP), which outlines the Island’s transport priorities from 2025 to 2040, will be considered by the Isle of Wight Council’s Economy, Regeneration, Transport, and Infrastructure Committee.

The plan is part of a national requirement for Local Transport Authorities to have a Local Transport Plan in place.

The ITP sets out a vision for a transport network that supports economic growth, reduces environmental impact, and improves access and safety for residents and visitors.

It includes objectives such as supporting local economic growth, improving air quality and travel efficiency, and making transport more inclusive and affordable.

The plan also highlights the importance of adapting to climate change and supporting healthier communities through safer and more sustainable travel options.

Among the proposals are improvements to rural bus shelters, simplified ticketing across different modes of transport, and the rollout of real-time information across the network.

The plan also supports enhancements at ferry terminals and the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The council has already secured £13.6 million in Levelling Up funding for walking, cycling, and public transport improvements, and £2.1 million from the Department for Transport’s Safer Roads Fund for the A3056 between Newport and Lake.

Public consultation on the draft plan is expected to begin in September, with events planned across the Island to gather feedback.

The final version of the plan is due to be published in early 2026, following consideration of public responses, and will be submitted to the Department for Transport for approval.

The committee will meet at 5pm on Thursday, July 10. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or follow the meeting live online.