As the winter evenings draw in, I hope you are all keeping safe and warm. At the time of writing, the country is coming out of a second lockdown. Remember, if you need help, please telephone the IWC Coronavirus helpline 01983 823 600 or, for the latest advice, please visit the IWC Coronavirus website: www.iow.gov.uk/news/Council-ramps-up-reminders-for-Covid-19
The good news is that the Island, thanks to the efforts of residents, has been designated under Tier 1. This allows the hospitality businesses to have table service and stay open until 11pm, but last orders must be made by 10pm, in order to stagger departures.
Covid-19 support continues to be available and grants have been reintroduced to businesses and the self-employed. If this applies to you, find out what support you may be eligible to via this link; www.iow.gov.uk/covid19_businessadvice Island residents can access mental health support and advice online at www.iwmentalhealth.co.uk
Prior to the lockdown I was very pleased to attend the socially distanced opening of the new Bembridge Heritage Visitor Centre located in Weavers Yard, Lane End, Bembridge (behind the shops), with the High Sheriff, Caroline Peel (pictured). Entry is free to all visitors (although donations are gratefully welcome).
The Bembridge Heritage Society that runs the centre was formed in 1996 with the goal of recording the history and heritage of Bembridge and its surrounding areas. The centre does not only have information about the village, but the wider industrial and archaeological interest within the Parish such as Bembridge Fort (which has an impressive model made by one of the Society members). For more information and to join as a member please visit www.bembridgeheritage.org.uk
Although Remembrance Day this year was not in its usual form; I proudly laid a wreath at the Bembridge war memorial on behalf of myself and the Isle of Wight Council.
Despite the lockdown situation, I am keeping busy continuing to deal with many council matters on behalf of the ward. At the time of writing I have been seeking resolution on behalf of residents following a letter issued to a number of addresses within the ward regarding waste collections on unadopted roads. Whilst the Council sees this work as a necessity, the timing of this for residents during a pandemic, lockdown and just before Christmas, is questionable, to say the least. I refused to accept that the response of “no time is a good time for this" by the responsible Cabinet member. There is a bad time though and this is it. An extension to the timescales has now been agreed by the Council.
I am always available to assist with residents matters so please do not hesitate to contact me. 2020 has been a difficult year for all of us and one major change has not received the amount of press exposure that it should have. Brexit takes place on 1st January 2021 and will bring new rules for businesses and citizens from 1st January 2021. For further information visit www.gov.uk/transition
Meetings
To ensure safety, meetings continue to be held virtually via Microsoft Teams.
Agendas for forthcoming meetings will be available for public viewing five working days before the meeting.
December IWC dates for your diary:
3rd December 17:00 Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Children's Services, Education and Skills
7th December 17:00 Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Health and Social Care
8th December 16:00 Planning Committee
9th December 10:00 Isle of Wight Pension Board
10th December 14:00 Local Outbreak Engagement Board
16th December 16:00 Harbour Committee
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and hoping that 2021 brings a better year for us all.
Email: Michael.murwill@iow.gov.uk
Councillor Michael Murwill
@cllrmurwill
Tel: 07754 463 040