Isle of Wight MP Tours Harbour to Back Shipbuilding Future
Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely got an exclusive look at Cowes Harbour and its vital marine sites on 11th April. Hosted by Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC), the tour showcased key development spots along the River Medina and stressed the importance of saving local shipbuilding jobs.
MP Gets Hands-On View of Shipbuilding Hubs
Joining Bob Seely onboard were CHC Chairman David Riley and Harbour Master Capt. Stuart McIntosh. The trio toured three crucial marine employment sites: Venture Quays in East Cowes, Kingston Marine Park at Whippingham, and Medina Yard in Cowes.
The highlight? A visit to Wight Shipyard’s facility at Venture Quays, where CEO Peter “Morty” Morton showed the MP the cutting-edge shipbuilding operation and current work on Red Funnel’s Red Jet 7.
150 Jobs at Risk Without Urgent Action
Bob Seely voiced strong support for Wight Shipyard but warned of looming challenges. “If a secure facility isn’t found soon, over 150 skilled jobs on the Island could be lost,” he said.
He added, “It’s absolutely vital that we protect shipbuilding here. There are worrying questions about the viability of some developments. I’ll be pushing the council to back projects that genuinely safeguard jobs and growth.”
Harbour Commission Pushes for Long-Term Solutions
Capt. Stuart McIntosh stressed CHC’s commitment to keeping shipbuilding and marine services thriving: “Our strategic policy is clear – we must promote sustainable harbour development to protect jobs and attract investment.”
After the harbour tour, CHC met Isle of Wight Council leaders and Wight Shipyard’s CEO to explore urgent solutions for the Medina Valley’s marine industry.
“Marine employment is the lifeblood of Cowes and the wider Island. Losing waterfront sites would cripple our industry,” said Capt. McIntosh. “We’re working hard with all stakeholders to secure a bright future for marine jobs.”
