News shared by the new Steering Group, in their own words. OnTheWight asked for a list of members of the new group: It is described as ‘fluid’ but at the moment they include Steve Witheyman, Stephen Izatt, Daniel Ruiz, Roger Watson, Richard Ferraro, Jim and Steph Toogood. Ed
A Steering Group has been formally established to represent community interests and explore future options for the Ventnor Winter Gardens.
This follows the building’s recently confirmed status as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) and news that its current owner has informed Isle of Wight Council of his intention to sell.
Under ACV legislation, this notification automatically triggers a six-month period during which a community backed bid may be explored. No price has been disclosed and no sales details have yet been released by an agent, meaning the process will be challenging.
Nonetheless the Steering Group believes now is the moment to act, if there is a possibility to influence the outcome.
A Steering Group member said,
“The ACV provides a unique opportunity – but it is time-limited.
“We are approaching this openly and constructively, and we want to hear from any parties who may be interested in forming a viable, community-focused bid.”
Background – Public support sparked action
The Steering Group was formed after three well attended public meetings held earlier this year to gather local opinion. Sentiment within the community was that the Winter Gardens has not meaningfully served the interests of local people for some time.
A view echoed widely in the news and social media channels. Nor has it offered the range of events, arts and cultural activity that could draw visitors to Ventnor throughout the year.
Since its formation, the Steering Group has met twice to understand the ACV process in detail and to map out possible next steps. Its remit is to:
- Investigate what a community backed bid could look like
- Identify individuals, organisations or consortia who may wish to bid
- Encourage transparency from all parties
- Explore community led and commercial partnership models
- Assess bids against criteria intended to deliver a long term solution, with real community value
Interest already emerging
In the interest of openness, the Steering Group confirms that there has already been interest expressed in working collaboratively. A Steering Group member said,
“We make no assumptions and we represent no single interest.
“Our role is to understand all options, with the community voice at the centre and to facilitate the possibility of a credible bid within the ACV timeframe.”
Call for interest
Given that the six-month ACV period is now underway, the Steering Group recognises it’s not possible to construct a bid relying solely on donations and public funding.
Instead, it is seeking expressions of interest from individuals, groups or organisations who may wish to develop proposals for purchase, management, cultural programming, and partnership models.
Further updates to the community will be launched to keep people informed.
