Islanders invited to celebrate Heritage Action Zone programme achievements

By Press Release Mar 13, 2024

As Historic England’s Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) programme draws to a close, two Celebration Events in Newport and Ryde will take place to reflect everything that has been achieved and highlight the plans still to be delivered in the towns.

A panel of guest speakers are set to present on:

  • How the funding partnership between Historic England, Ryde Town Council / Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council and the Isle of Wight Council has been used in the town.
  • How the research funded by the HAZ has benefitted local businesses and organisations.
  • How additional funding bids have been achieved for the town, based on HAZ research studies.
  • How the town’s Cultural Consortium programme brought life and colour to the town.
  • The plans to uplift the High Street to create an improved pedestrian experience.
  • How the legacy of the HAZ will continue to benefit the towns for years to come.

Julie Jones-Evans, cabinet member for Economy, Regeneration, Culture & Leisure said “Newport and Ryde were both so fortunate to have been accepted onto Historic England’s HAZ programme back in 2019 and it’s been fascinating to be a part of it. I’m particularly proud of the design guide that was produced and became part of our Council’s planning policy.”

“Alongside the shop front improvements from the HAZ programme itself, we are seeing other properties making positive changes, aligned with the design principles.”

“There’s still some impressive highways interventions to be completed, such as the Sustainable Drainage Systems in Newport and Ryde High Streets, transforming our town centres as better spaces to enjoy our built heritage.”

The events will be held at Ryde Baptist Church on Monday March 18 from 6-8pm and 64 High Street, Newport on Monday March 25 from 6-8pm.