Councillor Phil Jordan, leader of the Isle of Wight council, has expressed his warm congratulations to the newly elected MPs for the Island, Richard Quigley (Labour-West) and Joe Robertson (Conservative-East).
Councillor Jordan say he’s optimistic about the future collaboration between the MPs and the council, emphasising the importance of their roles in benefiting the Island.
Strengthening relationships
Councillor Jordan stated that he is looking forward to a “new and re-invigorated relationship” between the MPs and the council.
He believes that the collaboration between the council and the MPs is crucial as they work to secure better financial support from the Government.
What is the Island Deal?
For many years an Island Deal has been promised by the Government of the day to the IW council, but no Island Deal has materialised.
An Island Deal will take into consideration the additional costs to council services due to being on an Island. Back in 2016 a study by Portsmouth University found the Island’s council services were £6.4m worse off due to being an Island. These additional costs have now risen to more than £20m a year.
Financial improvement focus
The council leader highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve the Island’s financial position and service delivery.
He expressed confidence that the joint efforts with the MPs would lead to significant progress in these areas in the coming months and years.
Establishing regular meetings
Councillor Jordan has reached out to both MPs to set up regular meetings as soon as possible.
This proactive approach aims to ensure continuous dialogue and effective partnership between the council and the MPs.
Councillor Jordan’s enthusiastic welcome for the new MPs sets a positive tone for their future cooperation, which is hoped to bring tangible benefits to the Isle of Wight.
