MP Bob Seely has written to Levelling Up Minister Dehenna Davison asking her department to support the Isle of Wight Council’s bid for an ‘Island Green Link’ through round two of the government’s Levelling Up Fund.
The bid seeks to link up sustainable transport networks across the Island, filling the existing gap in connectivity.
The proposed project consists of three elements: the creation of a Ryde to Yarmouth public transport corridor; a multi-use cycle route between Newport and Freshwater - the ‘West Wight Greenway’; and the Newport Hub and Spokes scheme which will extend existing cycle routes and establish a mobility hub connecting Green Link projects with existing public transport.
Mr Seely said: “We were successful in round one at securing nearly £6 million to improve facilities in East Cowes which includes the Columbine building and neighbouring barrack site, as well the creation of a new public square along the esplanade.
“We are now looking to secure a second bid to help us to link up our cycle networks to give Islanders the opportunity to move towards more sustainable methods of travel and to enhance our tourism offer.
“I am keen to do all I can to maximise opportunities such as this to ensure that the Island continues to benefit from a better deal from government.
“I have therefore written to the Minister in support of the bid, and I have also invited her to the Island so she can see how the Levelling Up Fund is already helping the Island to deliver regeneration and economic growth, and how it could assist the Island further.”
