Nearly £6 million to support a new marine hub in East Cowes
East Cowes has long been a centre for the marine industry. Now, with the help of nearly £6 million from the Levelling Up Fund, a new marine hub will be created on the East Cowes waterfront.
The funding will help:
- secure skilled employment for local people
- kickstart wider regeneration on the island.
Improving the shipyard
Part of the funding will go towards a new boat hoist installation in the Columbine building.
This installation will:
- help Wight Shipyard Company deliver sustainable high-speed ferries
- increase the shipyard’s capacity.
The Wight Shipyard Company will also have opportunity to expand their marine design studio. The upgrades will provide flexible workspace for businesses and people in the community.
Developing Victoria Barracks
Victoria Barracks, a 19th century garrison building will be renovated to provide a new facility for the UK Sailing Academy.
This maritime charity offers a wide range of water-based training and education to support and encourage young people of all abilities and backgrounds.
The repurposed building will be multi-purpose and used to develop marine skills.
Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox, Isle of Wight Council Leader said:
East Cowes has long been … connected with the heritage of the Island, and this investment will help secure much needed skilled employment.
Transforming Albany Green
Improvements to Albany Green will enhance the entrance to East Cowes Esplanade. This underused space will be transformed into a centre of activity. Other plans include:
- storage lockers for water users
- a covered exhibition space
- a new viewing platform
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism said:
Getting this funding was essential to the Isle of Wight and, now we can actually see regeneration work going on at this historic location, there’s no doubt that benefits are coming to the area. Seeing this project commence in East Cowes is much needed, giving renewed confidence for the vital marine industry, providing jobs and skills for a new generation at the East Cowes Marine Hub, and bringing more prosperity and success to the whole Island.
Find out more about levelling up.