By Isle of Wight Observer
Monkton Arts in East Street, Ryde is celebrating the image of the iconic Appley Tower for two weeks starting on Bank Holiday Monday, August 26, with old and new photographs, paintings and drawings by local artists on display.
Appley Tower, built in 1875 by William Hutt is one of the most photographed and painted buildings on the Island. The exhibition seeks to raise interest in the future of the tower which is owned by the IW Council. There had been speculation that it would pass into private ownership, but in 2017 Ryde East Councillor, Michael Lilley started a campaign for the tower to remain in community ownership.
Natural Enterprise, a non-profit organisation who support and encourage investment on the Island obtained funding for a study on the future of the Tower from the Coastal Communities Fund. That work is nearing completion and when published will set out options for the long-term future of the much loved tower.
Councillor Lilley said: “I am so pleased that the new Monkton Arts venue has decided to put on this exhibition as Appley Tower is such a big part of Ryde and the Isle of Wight’s Heritage. It is the symbol of one of the best beaches and parks on the Island.
“When I heard some years ago it was closed and could be sold, I just had to start campaigning for it to be kept in community ownership. Natural Enterprise have been fantastic and IW Council have been very supportive in giving time and support to find a sustainable future for the Tower.”
Visitors to the exhibition which is open to the public from 9am to 5pm, (closed Sunday, September 1) will be able to learn more about the tower and sign up as a supporter of the campaign to keep the tower in public ownership.
