The Isle of Wight’s voice is stronger when it works closely with its neighbours across the Solent, the chairman of the Isle of Wight Council has said following a series of regional events designed to strengthen partnerships and share ideas.
Building relationships across the Solent
Councillor Ian Dore joined civic leaders from across the region for engagements in Southampton and Portsmouth aimed at building relationships and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
The events included a civic day hosted by Southampton’s Lord Mayor on Monday and the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth’s annual civic dinner on Wednesday night (16th September 2026).
Marine science and maritime careers
During the Southampton visit, Councillor Dore toured the National Oceanography Centre, including the research vessel RRS James Cook, where he learned about advances in marine science, innovation and autonomous technology.
Culture and creative inspiration
The delegation also visited Mayflower Studios and the Mayflower Theatre to gain an insight into the city’s cultural and creative sector.
Councillor Dore said,
“Being present and engaged with our neighbours across the Solent matters for the Isle of Wight.
“Our relationships with Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the wider region are about much more than geography. We share many of the same opportunities and challenges, and good relationships allow us to talk openly, exchange ideas and learn from one another.
“There is real value in knowing the people at the other end of the telephone. Whether conversations are about the Armed Forces Covenant, skills, employment, culture or economic opportunity, those relationships make collaboration easier and help ensure the Isle of Wight has a visible voice.”
The visit to the National Oceanography Centre also provided an opportunity to discuss the future of marine and maritime careers.
Councillor Dore said the experience highlighted the range of opportunities available in the sector, from science and engineering to technology, robotics and seafaring.
He said,
“For an island, the sea is part of who we are, but it should also be part of how we think about our future.
“I hope young Islanders see opportunities like these as being within their reach, while also recognising the skills, businesses and talent we already have here and how they can connect with opportunities across the wider Solent.”
Reflecting on the cultural visits, Councillor Dore said there was value in sharing ideas and learning from organisations across the region.
He said,
“Visiting Mayflower Studios and the Mayflower Theatre was a chance to see the creative work taking place there and think about the role culture and performance play in our communities.
“It is not about simply copying what others are doing. It is about seeing different approaches, asking questions and bringing inspiration home.”
He pointed to Island venues including Quay Arts, Medina Theatre and Department in Ryde as examples of the Isle of Wight’s own thriving creative sector.
Councillor Dore added,
“There is a great deal to gain from sharing ideas and experience across the Solent, and that exchange should work both ways, because the Isle of Wight has plenty to contribute too.”
Why civic engagement matters
The council chairman said civic engagements may appear ceremonial but play an important role in building partnerships and raising the Island’s profile.
He said,
“Strong partnerships are built on trust, familiarity and a willingness to talk.
“Part of my responsibility as chair is to champion the Island, listen to what others are doing, make connections and ensure the Isle of Wight is present, visible and heard.
“Whether here at home or representing the Island further afield, the aim is the same, to strengthen the relationships that can help our Island thrive.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
