The chair of the Isle of Wight Council has left County Hall’s Alliance group to sit as a non-aligned independent councillor.
Councillor Ian Dore confirmed the move this afternoon (Monday 9th February), citing his responsibility to run meetings fairly and impartially and wanting impartiality to be “clearly visible” with “several significant decisions” ahead, including the budget.
Focusing on “good governance”
The Binstead and Fishbourne councillor said his focus is on “good governance, delivery for residents and on chairing proceedings fairly and consistently” and pledged to continue to work constructively with colleagues across the chamber in the Isle of Wight’s best interests.
However, his statement to the press also said he would not be seeking the chair role again after May.
Dore: I’m not joining any other group
On a positive note, Councillor Dore praised the “tone in the chamber” improving “noticeably” since the Penn Report, a damning 31-page document which described County Hall as ‘dysfunctional’.
He said,
“For clarity, I remain an independent and I will continue to work constructively with all members across the chamber.
“This is not about stepping back from responsibility. I will continue to support stable, lawful governance and chair proceedings fairly for all members.
“I’m not joining any other group, and there is a lot of important work to do between now and May.”
Councillor Dore, who joined County Hall after the 2021 Isle of Wight Council elections and was voted in as chair in May 2025, also pointed to a “practical element”.
He said,
“Major roadworks are now underway in my ward, resident casework has increased, and Binstead has experienced further flooding, alongside the significant work already underway on flood mitigation.
“My Armed Forces Champion responsibilities also include time-limited MOD/ Armed Forces Covenant work from March to May, requiring sustained focus and multi-agency coordination.”
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
