Council Leader Urges Caution On 'Heavy Handed' Action Over Ferries

Cllr Phil Jordan, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, has today responded to the motions set to be discussed at the Full Council meeting regarding the reliability, affordability, and regulation of the Island’s ferry services.

In a statement, he has expressed his wishes to reassure Island residents that the Council is fully aware of the critical importance of cross-Solent travel and is already taking action.

He said:

“While I appreciate the concerns raised by my fellow councillors, I want to make it clear that the work they are asking for is already well underway.

“We have been in ongoing and constructive discussions with both of the Island’s MPs throughout the summer, and we share the concerns about ferry reliability, affordability, and long-term sustainability. These are not new issues, and we have been actively engaging with both Red Funnel and Wightlink, as well as government officials, to secure meaningful progress.”

Cllr Jordan emphasised that his administration has been working diligently to ensure the Island’s vital ferry links remain robust, affordable, and reliable for residents and visitors alike. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with all parties, including MPs and ferry operators, to find solutions that will benefit Island residents without jeopardising the services on which they depend.

Cllr Jordan added:

“We need strong, honest communication with all stakeholders to achieve the outcomes we all want.

“I believe that too much heavy-handed pressure, without careful consideration, could have unintended consequences for our local economy and Island residents. Rest assured, ferry links are a top priority for my administration, and we are already working with MPs and ferry operators to improve these critical services.”

Cllr Jordan’s remarks were prompted by two motions on cross-Solent travel to be discussed at Full Council. The first, from Councillor M Lilley, calls for urgent meetings with ferry operators, MPs, and the NHS to address reliability issues, particularly for Islanders needing healthcare services. The second motion, proposed by Councillor E Blake, calls for government intervention and regulation of ferry services, drawing comparisons to other UK ferry services that receive government support.

Cllr Jordan reiterated that his administration has already taken decisive steps in these areas:

"I have written to our MPs and proposed that we approach the government together to review ferry services. This includes the possibility of regulatory oversight, compensation for passengers affected by cancellations, and examining potential price caps for essential journeys, particularly for those travelling for healthcare. These are real issues that we are proactively addressing, and we will continue to do so in a measured and collaborative way."

The Council Leader cautioned against rushing into decisions that may not take into account the complexities of the situation"

“While I understand the frustrations of our residents and fellow councillors, we must approach this with care. A balanced approach is essential to ensuring long-term, sustainable improvements that protect our Island's people and economy."

Cllr Jordan concluded by reassuring the public that the Isle of Wight Council remains committed to improving cross-Solent services and working in the best interests of the Island’s residents.