Councillor Warren Drew

Annual Report 2023

Councillor Warren Drew – Ryde South East Ward

My predominant focus has been assisting residents with housing issues and the continuing problems that many face with anti-social behaviour. I have worked alongside housing associations, private landlords and voluntary organisations to help resolve some of the issues that residents face during what has been an unprecedent crisis in access to safe, affordable, well-appointed homes. Ryde has seen a massive contraction in the number of private, rented accommodation and this has had a concomitant impact on the social fabric of Ryde South East.

I continue to sit on the planning committee and am currently vice-chair. The past year has seen a number of challenging applications that continue to raise significant questions regarding the integration of planning on the Island. With so many young people unable to overcome the wide gulf between median Island salaries and housing costs, we must find ways of stemming the mass exodus which means that nearly one in three Island residents are now over the age of 65.

Homes are needed – particularly on an ‘Island affordable’ and social rent basis. It is vital that we catalyse engagement with developers and, where applicants are unwilling, make it clear that dialogue with local communities is expected. I also want to see a rationalisation of surplus publicly-owned land, and for that to be made available for the development of affordable homes, where suitable.

The Island faces many challenges with regard to its built environment and the next 12 months will be salutary as we continue to debate the draft Island Planning Strategy, in addition to the planning protocols that govern the Planning Authority. I look forward to continuing this vital dialogue and would simply conclude by reminding any residents that require assistance with local issues to contact me by phone, email, or post: warren.drew@iow.gov.uk / 07598 445296.

Warren Drew

May 2023