East Wight MP Launches Ryde Business Forum

Joe Robertson, Member of Parliament for Isle of Wight East, has launched a new Business Forum for Ryde, in order to better connect local business with each other and local decision makers.

The new forum does not seek to replace other organisations in Ryde the MP says, but help support engagement with other bodies like the Isle of Wight Council and the Ryde Neighbourhood Board which is set to distribute £20m of public money over the next 7-10 years.

Mr Robertson is keen to engage with local businesses, to hear about the challenges that they are facing so that he can better fight their corner in Parliament. 

April is traditionally a challenging time, with the end of the tax year and annual increases in bills. This April will see a combination of the Government’s increase in National Insurance for employers, increases in stamp duty, increases in the minimum wage, and an increase in water and energy bills.

The MP Forum event will be held from 5-7pm on Tuesday 15th April in the Royal Victoria Arcade and is open to all Ryde businesspeople.

Joe Robertson MP said:

“I am delighted to be launching the new Ryde MP Business Forum to help better support businesses in Ryde. I have asked John McLagan of Victoria Arcade to chair it.

“Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and this forum will provide a dedicated space to share concerns, explore opportunities, and work together to strengthen our local economy and community ties.

“There are lots of opportunities for Ryde in the next few years, not least millions of pounds to be distributed by Ryde Neighbourhood Board.

"I want to help ensure that we make the best of those opportunities and ensure they are not wasted. Local voices must guide the Town’s regeneration.”

Those wishing to attend on 15th April should email joe.robertson.mp@parliament.uk in advance.

A similar group for The Bay area will be announced in due course.