A storm is brewing over the future of Floating Bridge 6 – and it’s not just about engineering.

IW Cowes councillor, Lora Peacey-Wilcox, and East Cowes town councillor, Cameron Palin, have accused Isle of Wight Council staff of “undermining democracy” after officers recommended keeping the troubled vessel, despite a cabinet decision in March 2024 to replace it.

The councillors say the bridge is “not fit for purpose,” and costs over £1 million a year in losses, repairs, and spare parts – a total of £9 million to date. “Enough is enough,” said Cllr Palin, who added that he was “disgusted” by the report. “Despite expert advice, public feedback, and a democratic vote, officers are still trying to keep this failing bridge afloat,” he added.

In March 2024, Cllr Phil Jordan, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, declared: “This Island needs to know we are replacing the Floating Bridge,” following a unanimous decision by the cabinet. Consultants 35, who had carried out computer modelling and analysis of the current vessel, said that the existing vessel would have to be radically redesigned with a new hull or superstructure to be able to cross the Medina successfully.

The latest report on the floating bridge for the Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee (ERTIC), which will be considered on Thursday (October 16), claims that modifying the existing vessel offers better value than building a new one – a conclusion the councillors say ignores both public opinion and engineering advice. The proposal includes spending another £400,000 on “limited modifications,” including new chains.

Cllr Peacey-Wilcox, who, during her time as IW Council leader, secured and ring-fenced funds from a mediation process over the existing vessel towards a future bridge, condemned the recommendation as a “calamitous waste of taxpayers’ money.” She and Cllr Palin are calling for the ERTIC committee to reject the report and initiate a turnkey procurement process for a new vessel led by qualified experts – not bureaucrats.

Who really runs the Isle of Wight Council – elected representatives or unelected officers? Islanders will be watching.