By Isle of Wight Observer
Visit Isle of Wight has issued a stark warning over what it describes as a “growing crisis” caused by poorly coordinated roadworks, urging Island Roads to take immediate action to protect businesses already reporting serious financial losses.
CEO Dominic Wray said the scale of disruption now facing the Island was placing the entire visitor economy at risk. In an open letter to Island Roads this week, he warned that “the economic stakes could not be higher”, stressing that the Island’s £500 million tourism sector depends on reliable access for both residents and the two million visitors who travel each year.
Businesses have reported cancelled bookings, empty tables and journeys of just a few miles taking up to 90 minutes. One firm said it had lost more than £1,500 in a single week, while a newly opened restaurant has seen bookings collapse due to nearby closures.
Visit Isle of Wight is calling for a formal communication channel within 14 days, a full review of current and upcoming works within 30 days, and direct engagement between Island Roads’ senior leadership and the business community.
In response, an Island Roads spokesman said it recognised the difficulties faced by residents and businesses, noting that more than 1,000 highway works requests were received last month alone. Around two‑thirds of these, it said, were from utility companies with a legal right to maintain and upgrade essential services.
The spokesman added that works are discouraged during the summer to protect tourism, meaning more activity takes place in spring and autumn. He said the company had responded to Mr Wray and would continue its “courteous and professional” relationship with Visit Isle of Wight, adding that weekly roadworks updates are already shared with businesses and stakeholders, and it is happy to add others who wish to receive the information.