By Isle of Wight Observer
Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, Island Echo and the Isle of Wight Observer are once again joining forces to present the State of the Island Debate – Travel & Tourism Special.
Influential voices from across the Isle of Wight will come together at All Saints’ Church, Ryde, on Friday, June 12, to discuss some of the biggest challenges facing the Island. This year’s debate will focus on cross‑Solent travel, the condition of the Island’s roads, tourism and the wider economy.
Confirmed panellists include Joe Robertson MP (IW East), Richard Quigley MP (IW West) and Dominic Wray of Visit Isle of Wight, with further names to be announced shortly. The free‑to‑attend debate will once again be chaired by Marc Morgan‑Huws, chief executive of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Attendees will be able to put questions directly to the panel, with significantly more time allocated to audience participation following feedback from last year. The 2025 debate sparked important conversations, including concerns about the Isle of Wight Coroner’s Service, which led to increased scrutiny and meaningful change for Island families.
Given last year’s popularity, capacity has been increased to more than 500, though tickets remain first‑come, first‑served. Voluntary donations on the night will support the Daisy Ring Bus, which helps Island cancer patients travel safely to mainland hospitals.
Doors open at 6pm, with the debate running from 7pm to 9pm. Limited disabled parking is available at the church, with further parking on nearby streets and council car parks.
Carole Dennett, Editor of the IW Observer, said the Island faces complex challenges and that open dialogue is more important than ever. Darren Toogood, Editor and Publisher of Island Echo, added that the debate gives Islanders the chance to have their voices heard directly by those in positions of influence.
The event will mark the launch of Indie News Week 2026.
Free tickets can be booked HERE
Isle of Wight Observer 
Mal Butler