On Thursday 20 April the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting with representatives of the Island's business community and IW Council leader Andy Sutton to answer queries concerning his recent remarks about the value of the coach industry to the Island's economy.
Following a positive discussion it was established that the remarks made were taken out of context and Andy Sutton assured those present that he does recognise the significant contribution some sections of this sector bring to the Island's economy. He stated that the IW Council very much welcomed high value coach visitors to quality destinations here on the Island.
Both the IW Council and the IW Chamber of Commerce advocate working together to increase the quality of the visitor experience which is part of the Island's long term tourism strategy., As a direct result of this meeting, and to demonstrate goodwill, the IW Council has agreed to extend the current 4 day coach parking permit to seven days at the same rate of £60 and will shortly be announcing a complete re-structuring of coach parking charges on the Island.