By Isle of Wight Observer
A £19 1/2 million regeneration vision aimed at transforming Ryde over the next ten years has been unveiled by the Ryde Neighbourhood Board.
The plan includes a community grants programme, improved town centre facilities, support for local businesses, new sports and recreation provision such as a skateboard park, and bringing prominent empty buildings – including Ryde Town Hall – back into public use. It has been developed in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council and Ryde Town Council following engagement with residents, community groups, and businesses.
Ryde has been selected under the Government’s Pride in Place programme, which will see £5 billion invested across 244 towns. Ryde’s allocation of £19.5 million is due to be spread across a ten-year period, with the programme focusing on improving health and wellbeing, reducing anti-social behaviour, supporting local economies, and strengthening community influence.
The vision outlines plans to refresh the town centre and seafront, improve access to jobs and training, enhance community facilities and green spaces, and address health and wellbeing inequalities. Proposals include safer and more accessible public spaces, improved routes around the town and along the Esplanade, better access to the beach-front, public realm upgrades such as benches, toilets and signage, and targeted support for young people and older residents.
Steven Holbrook, chairman of the board, said the vision had been shaped by local feedback and would continue to evolve. Subject to Government approval of plans, the first funding could be released from April, with drop-in sessions planned from March to share details and gather further ideas.