News shared by Sarah Redrup on behalf of Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats. Ed
Michael Lilley, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Isle of Wight East, has committed to develop a state-of-the-art living museum and family science centre in the heart of the Bay Area. His plans would blend natural beauty with scientific innovation and discovery.
Vision for the future
Michael says that this initiative is part of his vision to regenerate the area and stimulate economic growth.
“We are incredibly lucky to live on an island that is in abundance of natural beauty and has a long history of innovation and discovery.
“The Island needs bold and ambitious plans that will stimulate regeneration and bring back our vibrant high streets.”
Building on success
Drawing inspiration from successful projects elsewhere like the Tate St Ives and the Winchester Science Centre, which have proven their ability to attract visitors and boost their local economies, Michael wants to replicate these achievements.
The project would seek to create a hub for education, exploration, and innovation.
Lilley: I have already delivered exciting projects in Ryde
If elected as the MP for Isle of Wight East, Michael believes that he can get the right partners around the table to look seriously at regeneration in the Bay Area.
“As an Isle of Wight Councillor I have built relationships with Portsmouth University and the Winchester Science Centre, both have expressed interest in the Island’s scientific potential.
“I have already delivered exciting projects in Ryde over my past eight years as a Ryde Councillor and as the former Mayor of Ryde, I promise to bring that same energy and creativity to the Bay Area.”
Supporting existing and new initiatives
Recognizing the exceptional work of establishments such as Dinosaur Isle, the Wight Aviation Museum, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, and the National Poo Museum in Sandown and Shanklin, Michael Lilley is committed to bolstering these world-class initiatives.
Additionally, he has said he would support new attractions like a potential tidal sea pool in Yaverland and a planetarium and observatory to enjoy the Island’s dark skies.
Community endorsement
Michael’s plans have attracted enthusiasm and support from key stakeholders, including Helen Blake (pictured above), Chairperson of Wight Aviation Museum.
“We are delighted to hear that the Island could become a prominent science destination, helping to bring together local science and heritage projects, and supporting our local businesses in the Bay Area through increased visitation to the Island as a whole.”
Lilley: We must nurture the future scientists, engineers, inventors, creative entrepreneurs, environmentalists and doctors
Inspired by his father, Prof. Goeffry Lilley OBE who played a key role in the development of the Concorde, Michael has said that a project like this has the potential to inspire the next generation.
“We must nurture the future scientists, engineers, inventors, creative entrepreneurs, environmentalists and doctors on the Island. That starts with showing them just how amazing the place they live is.
“My father worked at Saunders Roe in East Cowes in 1940, inspired by the innovation there he went on to become Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Southampton University. He was a founder of Winchester Science Centre and often compared the Isle of Wight to a natural living museum. It was his dream and now mine.”
