Fixed Link Feasibility Study Survey High Level Summary MARCH 2017 Introduction This report has been compiled based on all feedback received from the Fixed Link Feasibility Study Survey. This is a pulse survey, designed to collect views about whether there should be a feasibility study and the areas that should be addressed as areas of concern as part of any feasibility study that takes place. NOTE: THE SURVEY WAS ABOUT WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE A FEASIBILITY STUDY, NOT WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE A FIXED LINK. The link to the survey was shared to encourage participation from as wide a group as possible. This included posting on web sites, facebook pages and in local media. Participants completing the survey were encouraged to understand differing views so that there would be an unbiased understanding of information from both sides of the discussion, the links to the following were included in the invitation to complete the survey. • Facebook - IOW Fixed Link Tunnel Campaign Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/iowfixedlink • FaceBook -The Isle of Wight No Fixed Link Forum https://www.facebook.com/groups/752274824833591/ • Solent Freedom Tunnel Website http://solentfreedomtunnel.co.uk/ • Against Fixed Link Action Group (AFLAG) Website. http://aflag.org.uk/ The survey was opened on 19th February 2017 and closed on 31st March 2017. The survey was set up to enable only one response from each computer, although we are aware that some individuals bypassed this by clearing the cache on their computer and the making multiple responses. For those that genuinely made one response the following screen would have been displayed after they had responded and attempted to log in to the survey again. PAGE 1 As some individuals cleared their cache to bypass this restriction, the survey tool used collected IP Addresses, start times, finish times and completion times, using this data gives an indication of those responses made by individuals who have attempted to skew results by clearing their cache and then completing the survey repeatedly. These were labelled SUSPICIOUS DATA for further investigation. It was also apparent from that data and cut and pasted responses where individuals attempted to disrupt the quality and reliability of information collected and multiple responses have been screened and excluded from the final report. Several entries from the same IP address have been included where it is obvious that they are from family members using the same internet connection, individuals at businesses addresses who also use same IP addresses and from free WIFI addresses (checks on these were made by using online tools and physical checks at WIFI locations) IRRESPECTIVE OF ATTEMPTS BY INDIVIDUALS TO SKEW AND DISCREDIT RESULTS, THE FULL RAW DATA, IS INCLUDED IN THIS REPORT TO DEMONSTRATE THAT THEIR ATTEMPTS HAVE HAD LITTLE IMPACT ON OVERALL RESULTS AS THE NUMBER OF GENUINE RESPONSES IS SUFFICIENTLY HIGH TO HAVE LITTLE IMPACT ON THE FINAL SUMMARY RESULTS. In the majority of cases individuals competing the survey have been totally honest and open with their feedback and responses, so it is possible to check names and email addresses. Participants completing the survey were NOT required to add their name or contact details as the aim was to encourage broad views and respect responses given by individuals. Participants were also encouraged to add free text to comments to support their responses. The results from the survey are shared initially with the Isle of Wight County Press before release to other Media Outlets. PAGE 2 No personal details are shared and individuals’ responses are kept confidential. Particularly as in some cases individuals in the same household have different views or maybe from individuals who do not want personal views in public arena. PAGE 3 RAW DATA Summary Report All responses received were analysed and the charts below detail the results. Please note that this data and the charts below are based on all responses received before any data cleansing and exclusion of obvious multiple entries and Suspicious Activity which was investigated further. What is your age group? over 70 years old, 4.1% 60 - 70 years old, 12.8% 50 - 60 years old, 19.1% Under 20 years old, 5.1% 20 - 30 years old, 18.4% 30 - 40 years old, 20.2% 40 - 50 years old, 20.4% PAGE 4 A mainland resident., 11.6% Location A permanent Island resident., 88.4% Employed on Student studying Mainland but live on mainland, and commute 3.7% from Isle of Wight, 7.4% Employed and living on Mainland, 8.3% Employed on Isle of Wight but live and commuting from Mainland, 0.9% Student studying on Isle of Wight, 3.7% Currently Unemployed, 4.4% Retired, 13.0% Employed and living on on Isle of Wight, 53.3% Which are you? Semi-retired, 5.2% PAGE 5 Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? Undecided, 2.9% No, 24.9% Yes, 72.2% PAGE 6 Do you think that it is reasonable for the IOW Council to request an independent FL Study to ascertain the correct information concerning options for future Cross Solent Transport? Undecided, 4.6% No, 22.3% Yes, 73.1% In order of importance (10 most important to 1 least important) please rank the following factors that should be considered as part of feasibility study. Please note that you cannot use the same number twice. Safety in tunnel 5.46 Types of tunnel 4.57 Ferry services 4.33 Social effects 5.52 Business 6.29 Tourism 6.33 Healthcare 5.80 Education 5.03 Environment 5.89 Traffic management 0.00 5.78 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 PAGE 7 At the present time before the study is undertaken, would you consider the prospect of having a road tunnel "Fixed Link" from the Island to the mainland as positive, or negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight? Undecided, 4.9% Negative, 29.1% Positive Negative Undecided Positive, 66.0% Data Cleansing During data cleansing all responses were examined and screened to check multiple entries, this included checking IP addresses, names, email addresses, start and finish times, duration of responses and other data. It was apparent that there were two categories of responses that were categorized after that analysis as suspicious data which merited deeper investigation. Group 1 These were duplicated entries by individuals – these were completed on different dates and there were not more than one duplicated response from those individuals. These were not considered malicious attempts to skew data and may have been duplicated through forgetting that responses had already been completed and caches being automatically cleared when computers were closed. Nevertheless, the second entries have been removed from the final data to ensure as far as practically possible that the survey only includes one response per individual. Where two (or more) entries were made from the same IP address and it was obvious from other data such as names and email addresses were included that these were from different members of the same household, business etc. all entries have been retained. Group 2 These were obvious attempts by individuals making multiple entries. During data collection In addition to IP addresses, the start time, completion time and PAGE 8 duration of those entries were also examined. The replies were also examined as there was clear evidence that comments had been cut and pasted. Where it was obvious that these were intentional and malicious attempts to skew the data, those IP addresses were blocked to prevent further activity from those individuals. A total of 77 were blocked during the data collection phase as it was clear from patterns of data collected that these were being used for suspicious activity. Anyone attempting to log in from those locations would have received message “This survey has closed, please contact administrator”. It was apparent that some of those IP addresses were open WIFI locations, some WIFI locations were visited and tested to check message and IP address. Many of those blocked were using fictitious names. names of celebrities or names of individuals in an attempt to discredit them. Examples are given below of names used by those making multiple entries. This is not a full list. Other examples were full list of cast of Thunderbirds, Eastenders, Loose Women, Newscasters and others. There were also other entries made at same times from the same IP addresses (including several where names were not given) and these have also been excluded from final results.. Start Date 02/19/2017 19:58:11 02/22/2017 22:28:59 02/22/2017 22:35:59 02/24/2017 00:06:46 02/24/2017 00:12:31 02/25/2017 20:22:51 03/03/2017 18:01 03/03/2017 18:03 End Date 02/19/2017 19:59:14 02/22/2017 22:32:00 02/22/2017 22:37:57 02/24/2017 00:11:18 02/24/2017 00:16:54 02/25/2017 20:26:07 03/03/2017 18:02 03/03/2017 18:05 03/03/2017 18:06 03/05/2017 18:26 03/05/2017 18:31 03/05/2017 19:11 03/05/2017 19:19 03/05/2017 19:26 03/05/2017 21:32 03/05/2017 21:52 03/05/2017 22:43 03/05/2017 23:11 03/05/2017 23:18 03/05/2017 23:21 03/05/2017 23:23 03/05/2017 23:27 03/06/2017 08:29 03/06/2017 20:32 03/03/2017 18:09 03/05/2017 18:30 03/05/2017 18:37 03/05/2017 19:14 03/05/2017 19:26 03/05/2017 19:31 03/05/2017 21:45 03/05/2017 21:58 03/05/2017 22:56 03/05/2017 23:16 03/05/2017 23:20 03/05/2017 23:23 03/05/2017 23:26 03/05/2017 23:31 03/06/2017 08:30 03/06/2017 20:36 What is your name? - Open-Ended Response me again Jack Straw Bill Sykes Ivor Bolackoff Doug Ahole john lewis Debbie Harry Debbie Harry Again Debbie Harry for the third time - this is so easy... Peter Parker Mori Gallup Fred Dineage Donald Trump Theresa May Jeremy Clarkson Richard Hammond James May Jane MacDonald jimmy carr Alan Carr Austin Reed Jon Culshaw Frank James Matt Alright PAGE 9 03/06/2017 20:38 03/06/2017 21:44 03/06/2017 21:50 03/09/2017 04:12 03/09/2017 11:07 03/09/2017 11:12 03/09/2017 11:18 03/09/2017 12:22 03/09/2017 12:26 03/09/2017 12:37 03/09/2017 12:40 03/12/2017 08:52 03/14/2017 22:33:47 03/14/2017 22:37:16 03/14/2017 22:48:15 03/14/2017 22:56:57 03/14/2017 23:05:56 03/14/2017 23:27:00 03/16/2017 22:07:06 03/16/2017 22:09:24 03/16/2017 22:14:04 03/16/2017 22:19:25 03/16/2017 22:23:51 03/16/2017 22:31:23 03/16/2017 22:42:15 03/17/2017 06:47:47 03/17/2017 06:50:40 03/17/2017 06:55:52 03/17/2017 06:58:37 03/18/2017 17:26:52 03/18/2017 23:00:25 03/18/2017 23:18:10 03/19/2017 21:53:51 03/20/2017 20:25:07 03/21/2017 19:53:42 03/21/2017 20:06:08 03/24/2017 06:52:04 03/25/2017 20:07:57 03/25/2017 20:23:45 03/06/2017 20:42 03/06/2017 21:49 03/06/2017 21:52 03/09/2017 04:14 03/09/2017 11:10 03/09/2017 11:16 03/09/2017 11:20 03/09/2017 12:25 03/09/2017 12:30 03/09/2017 12:39 03/09/2017 12:42 03/12/2017 08:54 03/14/2017 22:36:31 03/14/2017 22:40:58 03/14/2017 22:51:11 03/14/2017 23:00:21 03/14/2017 23:09:08 03/14/2017 23:30:51 03/16/2017 22:08:08 03/16/2017 22:10:30 03/16/2017 22:18:25 03/16/2017 22:22:12 03/16/2017 22:27:24 03/16/2017 22:39:20 03/16/2017 22:45:18 03/17/2017 06:50:16 03/17/2017 06:53:23 03/17/2017 06:58:20 03/17/2017 07:00:43 03/18/2017 17:30:12 03/18/2017 23:08:27 03/18/2017 23:23:25 03/19/2017 22:00:41 03/20/2017 20:28:36 03/21/2017 19:56:44 03/21/2017 20:08:34 03/24/2017 06:53:46 03/25/2017 20:19:57 03/25/2017 20:29:04 Shane Morris Virgina Bottomley Peter Bottomley Ben Dover Gordon Ramsey Jim Beam Jack Daniels Trinny Woodhall Del Shannon Gabby Roselin Jack Spratt Del Shannon Theresa May Nicola Sturgeon Gary Barlow Tom Jones Joan Rivers Cliff Richard Peter Cook Dudley Moore Dawn Chorus Ford Prefect Judith Charmers Harry Hill Alexis Green Sheldon Cooper George Osborne John Snow Martin Lewis Tina Turner Theresa Green John Doe Jim Beam Martin Fowler Mark Fowler Arthur Fowler Celia Smith Ben Dover Walken Water PAGE 10 In addition to checking IP addresses, names used on multiple occasions were also checked and only first entry is included in final report. These names were often used by several individuals at different IP addresses to discredit individuals. Checks on some of the names used were made with genuine individuals to ascertain whether they had in fact completed the survey and the date complete. An example of names repeatedly used from different IP addresses is given below. The example given is from individuals making malicious attempts to discredit individuals. All of this data has been excluded from the final report, together with responses made at same times from same IP addresses. Start Date 02/21/2017 00:59:36 02/23/2017 19:59:20 02/23/2017 20:19:02 02/25/2017 20:19:19 03/06/2017 10:13 03/10/2017 09:11 End Date 02/21/2017 22:02:00 02/23/2017 20:10:44 02/23/2017 20:22:18 02/25/2017 20:22:15 03/06/2017 10:15 03/10/2017 09:14 IP Address 89.242.xxx.xxx 86.172.xx.xxx 86.172.xx.xxx 77.234.xx.xxx 86.63.x.xxx 91.85.xxx.xxx What is your name? Open-Ended Response Carl feeney Carl Feeney Jason Feeney Jason Feeney Carlos Feeney Karl Feeney-Kunt The final group of responses that have been excluded from the final report are those making malicious comments about individuals. The level of attempts to discredit the survey and skew the data by a few individuals has been relatively easy to detect. The behaviour of those individuals shows total disrespect for the genuine individuals that have contributed their views on either side of the discussion and total disrespect for a democratic process in gathering a range of views from as wide an audience as possible. I believe that the data in the final cleansed report represents as far as accurately possible the data from genuine contributors and I would like to thank them for completing the survey and sharing their views, opinions and concerns. PAGE 11 Full Summary Data Report A total of 4,967 responses were received. What is your age group? over 70 years old, 4.3% 60 - 70 years old, 13.3% Under 20 years old, 4.7% 20 - 30 years old, 17.9% 30 - 40 years old, 20.5% 50 - 60 years old, 19.0% 40 - 50 years old, 20.3% PAGE 12 A mainland resident., 12.3% Location A permanent Island resident., 87.7% Employed on Student studying Mainland but live on mainland, and commute 3.5% from Isle of Wight, 7.6% Employed and living on Mainland, 8.9% Employed on Isle of Wight but live and commuting from Mainland, 0.8% Student studying on Isle of Wight, 3.4% Which are you? Currently Unemployed, 4.3% Retired, 13.7% Semi-retired, 5.1% Employed and living on on Isle of Wight, 52.5% PAGE 13 Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? Undecided, 3.3% No, 18.9% Yes, 77.8% Do you think that it is reasonable for the IOW Council to request an independent FL Study to ascertain the correct information concerning options for future Cross Solent Transport? Undecided, 4.8% No, 16.3% Yes, 78.9% PAGE 14 In order of importance (10 most important to 1 least important) please rank the following factors that should be considered as part of feasibility study. Please note that you cannot use the same number twice. Safety in tunnel 5.71 Types of tunnel 4.75 Ferry services 4.09 Social effects 5.40 Business 6.19 Tourism 6.20 Healthcare 5.97 Education 5.10 Environment 5.82 Traffic management 5.77 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 At the present time before the study is undertaken, would you consider the prospect of having a road tunnel "Fixed Link" from the Island to the mainland as positive, or negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight? Undecided, 5.2% Negative, 23.5% Positive Negative Undecided Positive, 71.3% PAGE 15 Comments These are the free form comments made by individuals to questions. NOTE THESE HAVE NOT BEEN SCREENED AT ALL AS IT IS UP TO INDIVIDUALS READING THIS REPORT DRAWING THEIR OWN CONCLUSIONS FROM THESE RESPONSES. No corrections have been made to grammar, spelling or language used – the comments appear exactly as submitted. It is apparent from repeated comments adjacent to each other that these were often made by those attempting to skew the survey. Question 5 Participants were asked to choose from a drop-down menu, It would have been a long list to cover all eventualities so an additional comments box was included. These are responses from those answering NO to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Do also commute into Hampshire with my job Self Employed Self employed..retired from formal employment self employed Have 2 young children. So stay at home mum I work summer seasons abroad winter isle of wight Self employed. Employed on Mainland and live there, but brought up on the Isle of Wight Self employed tradesman..plasterer, carpenter, plumber etc House wife and mother A mix of travel / online work - self employed, husband works in London Disabled and unable to work 2nd Home Owner Self employed and live on the Island, Self employed Stay home mum self employed plumber Self employed and mainly work in Europe so travel from the island. • • • • • • • • Self employed. Business owner Housewife. Self employed business owner Long term sick On the Island at weekends until I qualify. Then on the Island permanently. Regular trips taken for Holiday and rest breaks Disabled Self employed with 2 holiday letting properties. PAGE 16 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Previous A- level student currently on a gap year. Mothers full time carer Twat Self employed Isle of Wight Medically Retired business owner Business owner No Others Employed on the mainland but have owned a property on the IOW for 17 years. business owner business owner With my entire extended family living on the IOW Company Owner and employed by that company. Work both on the mainland and the Island which is typically not an option on your menu. Not employed but 'Other' option wasn't available! I am a full time mother/carer and home educator. Transportation Conultant business owner Unable to work due to ill health/disability/early retired self-employed self-employed on the island Retired police officer and now volunteer at both the Donkey Sanctuary and Havenstreet Steam Railway. Homemaker living in the isle of wight Own a business and living on the island Employed by international company but living on the island Full time volunteer work on island Have second home on island and hoping to live there permanently when retired I am self employed, why wasn't this an option on the drop down menu? From IOW (ancestors go back 300+ years there), my family live there and I regularly return. Self-employed professional, resident & working on IW. This survey should have an 'other' option in the drop down! I spy incompetence. Carer for disabled family member Concerned observer Born and brought up on the Island. Visit relatives at least four times a year and hoping to move home to the island in the next ten years when our kids have finished their education. If I could live there again now we would but we are stuck where we are for now. If I could have my time again, I would move back and educate the kids on the island. Hindsight is a wonderful thing! Self-employed and living on the Isle of Wight I live on the Isle of Wight & my work is spread between the island & the mainland so I commute. Self employed and living on the Island Age is irrelevant to this survey. In my opinion this survey is biased towards a fixed link that no one who lives here wants. A proud proper Islanders. Employer Stay at home mother House wife Not really semi retired but you have to put something in the box and there is no option for other! Self employed Full time carer Just purchased a house on the Isle of Wight. Waiting for completion. PAGE 17 • • • • • • • • • • • Self-employed and living on IOW Homemaker Housewife Self employed business owner living on the island Self employed and living on the Isle of Wight I also work from about 50% Parents still on Island and I grew up there. Housewife on mainland with holiday home on Isle of wight. Self-employed. House wife registered disabled These are responses from those answering UNDECIDED to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I have my own business here and now prospering on our beautiful island I used to live on IOW for 20 years but have moved back to mainland for work etc. My parents still live there and if there was a tunnel I would visit them regularly, but as it is now I don't Self employed travel mainland somtines still DON'T WANT FIXED LINK Self employed on the Island Self employed Stay at home mum Single parent of 2. Previously full time working on the island. Full time mother i am an Islander with many relatives to visit during the course of the year. so an bridge or other structure would be great. Self employed and living on Isle of Wight Carer for disabled partner disabled and live on the isle of wight With part time Employment Due to be starting work in Manchester from 06/03/17, but family and friends based in and around Ryde. Not working Taking a career break, while doing up a property Part time practitioner in transportation planning etc Frequent visitor for both days and longer breaks. I live on the isle of wight and am employed on the isle of wight however I study at university on the mainland Self employed second home owner Grew up the IOW and parents still live there Unable to work due to long term illness Self employed, I actually set up my own business These are responses from those answering YES to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? PAGE 18 • • • • • • • • • • • • • I am employed by an island firm but work on mainland live on island Living on Island. Homemaker. Self-employed, work from home and all my work comes from the mainland. Disabled Recently made redundant. Considering relocating to mainland due to cost of commuting/ lack of alternative work on Island. Self employed Self employed Where is the option for other in the drop down menu above? Self-employed on the Isle of Wight, working both on the island and on the mainland. Old enough to remember the last study done by a Winchester based civil engineering company in 1979/80? They favoured a single span suspension (toll) bridge from Gurnard to Lepe. (High enough to allow any shipping through). Look at the bridges crossing the Intracoastal Waterway in the eastern USA. Beautiful structures, floodlit at night. A real attraction! Home is based on the Isle of Wight but work abroad. Retired, and living for most of the time with my Partner, who is an Island Resident, in Cowes. Owner of award winning holiday cottages. Live on mainland and Isle of Wight. Employed on mainland • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Carer for elderly and sick parent on Isle of Wight. Moved months ago from the island however still have family and friends living on the island business owner living and working on the iow Part time only My family live on the island and I visit regularly Engage in voluntary work Work for mainland company but work/live in the island 18.5hrs week. Other 18.5hrs I am company director of non island company Have a second home on the Island I have a holiday home in Cowes Self employed retired means we can travel more , it also means state pension SO we have to allow at least £100 EXTRA to get started on any journey. I am a self employed tiler in the construction industry Employed on island, live on island also employed and commuting to mainland House wife. Husband employed at st Mary's hospital. Commute off island everyday for work Self employed island resident Also planning to study on the mainland Isle of Wight is my family home. Stay at home mum/homemaker should have been made an option! Grew up on the Island, moved away for work. Self Employed I commute off the island everyday for work Self employed living and working on the Isle of Wight Self-employed Employed on mainland but my permanent residence is Isle of Wight due to lack of sufficient permanent employment. Self employed living on mainland Business serving mainland. PAGE 19 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I also have a lot of work on the mainland Disabled Part time self employed Living on the island but working on and off the island. Disabled Do travel to the mainland for work Off work due to illness Long term sick, living with family Not working due to health issues. Carer for wife. From island and family still there so constantly travelling to and from island. Especially as my mum is not well. I have wanted to move back home for years but I just can't afford to. Bricklayer self emp I'm born and breed on the Isle of Wight. All of my family still live there but I had to move off for work. My family rarely get back to the island despite living in Romsey, my children do not see their grandparents enough, and it is quite simply down to the time and costs of the ferrys! We need a fixed link! I'm a stay at him mum to my three babies. Working mostly from home on island but commuting to mainland around once per week. T Mainland home is private rental - my home is on the Island is owned by me Mature student 33, residing in Bournemouth but have lived all my adult life on the Isle of Wight and family still live there Living overseas but born on the island From Island and all family there Island resident forced to live on the mainland to follow my career Self employed on island • • • • • • • • • • • • • Full time student on mainland Homemaker Self-employed with a business which operates on the IOW and mainland Disabled Born and lived in the Isle of Wight for over 20 years, now living on mainland My family all still live on the island. Disabled Born and lived on the island for 22 years I commute most weeks however to other offices. Self employed working on the island. Self employed business owner. Grew up on the IOW. Parents and family still live there full time. Palliative care nurse Self employed, do need to travel to mainland to work. • • • • • • • • • • • • • I was born on the iow where I lived until age 18. My parents still live there and we're also born and bred, as were my paternal grandparents. Moved off island due to poor jobs and prospects Musician Grew up on the Isle of Wight and all of my family live there and I visit regularly Self employed living on the island and need to travel to the main land to increase my work. Housewife Self employed living on island PAGE 20 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Medically retired due to brain tumour Family live on island Self-emoloyed on the Island and internationally I am NOT unemployed, I am a homemaker with husband who commutes to Mainland every day to work, but your flawed drop-down menu forces me to select the least inappropriate choice Due to long term illness and disability Housewife Housewife Born on the island, visit monthly Stay at home mum Island borne and bred. Originally from the island with family remaining in residence on the island. Self employed Disabled Left the island 5 years ago due to cost and service provided by the ferry companies. I grew up on the Isle of Wight and lived / worked there until I was 26 Parents live on the island. Self-employed living on the IoW Always visiting family used to be a resident for 50yrs Family based on the Isle of Wight Medical reasons I left the Isle of Wight after commuting to the mainland for 6 years. I also have a full time job on the the island whilst studying with the open university. ESA for health reasons Also work on the Mainland on a regular basis Would like to be able to afford to go to see family on mainland more often. I'm actually a tudying abroad at this time. Didn't know what to put. I come from the Island and have many family members over there! Born and grew up on the island until uni Former Isle of Wight resident that moved away to university, you d a job elsewhere in the country, bit whose family all still live on the island Self-employed and living on the Isle of Wight I am a partner in our family business Also travel to the mainland for work fairly often. Disabled Self employed Self employed business owner I used to live on the Isle of Wight and have close family and friends there. Self employed loving on iow Business Owner Self employed living on the Isle of Wight Stay at home mum Self - employed All my family are on the Island and go there regularly until I can move back permanently. Home maker Island resident for 25years commuting to isle of wight on weekends Self employed Retired due to health I have Multiple Schlerosis Self employed and living in the island PAGE 21 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Full time parent living on the Isle of Wight Employed by a company with multiple mainland and Island sites. Live on the Island and travel around a lot. Self employed. Studying with open university from the island. Apprenticeship and living on the Isle of Wight House wife full time parent Self employed Disabled Also work on the island Self employed living on island I was born on the Isle of Wight, live in Hampshire and visit my family regularly. Stay at home mum Self employed Mother self employed business owner, born and bred Self employed seasonal trader. **Maybe add another heading for "self employed on the Isle of Wight." Work and live on the mainland but own a second home on the island. I am disabled, but have worked most of my life. I have always lived on the IOW On esa A large proportion of friends and family live on the island and I am a regular visitor. Also previously lived on the island. Soon to be studying on mainland I run a 5 star holiday let unit , an annex to my house on IOW Voluntary organisation owner I also study on the island Seafarer, leave the UK for work, 2 months at a time. Self employed and living and working on the island Stay at home mum carer - stay at home. Born on Isle of Wight recently moved off island due to cost of commute on ferries. Something needs be done and not too expensive to travel either as it's already way too expensive to get on and off this place. And the ferry companies mainly wight link hold passenger to ransom especially when travelling back from work at late early hours of morning and Brignall told can't get on as it's restricted for foot passengers! !out of order I've been told few times can't let you travel on this one you HAVE to wait til later one or wait for the first caterman totally out of order. They like to leave females waiting around on there own with idiots hanging around not safe don't like useing them and plus....this island news to get with the modern times stop whingeing about your island and get real. I will be studying on the Mainland in September Running my own business Full time carer to elderly grandfather Director of a business that operates on the mainland but able to work from home. Born, grew up I island. Left after school to work. Came back with my first born and stayed until she finished school. Have moved off the island again now, but back regularly to visit family. Took early retirement from working for IW Council but previously commuted to Pompey to work. Have own hotel on island Self Employed But also study at university on the mainland PAGE 22 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Employed and living on the island, also studying on the mainland. Employed globally but live on island Self employed bed and breakfast owner I have a holiday home on the IOW Self employed Student at university, commutes to Portsmouth. But travel weekly to the isle Frustrated commuter that works in Portsmouth and live on the Island Housewife House wife I work part time on the mainland and commute 3 days a week. Still in school I also do sporadic short periods of freelance work. As film/video/media professional, I look for work mostly on the mainland as there is rarely any work on the island that suits my skills and knowledge. Carer for my wife Retired Self employed Moved away from the island due to lack of opportunities. Visit island weekends to see son Grew up the island and return regularly to see friends and family Full time carer Looking for residence currently on the isle of wight Self employed Stay at home mum with young and disabled children Very soon to be studying on the mainland. Living on the Island, working over seas in Merchant Navy on 60/60 day work pattern. Self employed living on the isle of wight I go to college over in Portsmouth as they don't have the studying over here that I need. Self employed living on the island Houseperson Seafarer Unemployed disabled esa and pip I am a stay at home mum. Islander born and bred so back regularly Self employed own buisness & Part time employed. Would like to work on the mainland Originally from the Isle of Wight Self employed Disabled Self employed and mostly reliant on tourism Work from home but employed by company in London Live in France Ex islander now living on mainland. I'm a housewife Housewife/Mother living on the Isle of Wight Just moving back to the island after 17 years of living abroad My roots as an islander span many generations and as a local I have been in full time employment since leaving school at 15 I moved away from the IOW due to lack of work PAGE 23 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Living mainland delivering to the island Part time Trying to establish a new business on the island Self employed on IW and living on IW Self employed, planning on moving to the island but continuing to work on the mainland Company director, soon to be Island resident Self employed Housewife looking after pre school age children Homeowner on the IOW, planning to move there on retirement. Previously commuted from Island to Mainland Business owner but have to travel to mainland frequently Self employed island resident, there was no option in the drop down menu. I am self employed here because there is no other work on the island. You have to be entrepreneurial to survive over here! Stay at home mum Self employed Self employed and living on Isle of Wight. My husband travels daily to work on the mainland Business owner Have 2nd home on IOW. Musician who travels on and off Isle of Wight multiple times a year Self employed regularly carrying out contract works on the Mainland. Full time carer and housewife living on the Isle of Wight Self employed Housewife Self employed and living on the Isle of wight Regular visitor to relatives on the island. Houseperson I am also studying at Portsmouth university Medically retired Disabled spinal injury Poet I am a director of an Isle of Wight company. Lived on Isle of Wight for 35 years (not quite continuously) until move to mainland May 2016. disabled Employed on mainland, but stay with family on Island at weekends retired on medical grounds Self Employed. Live and work on the Isle Of Wight I used to live on the island but left due to travel to mainland being so costly/time consuming Also studying on mainland resident on Isle, but work on and off self employed. Family live on the island sometimes commute for work I am leaving the Island in two months as I cannot cope with the commute and appalling ferry service/cost any more Self employed living and working on island Well I actually live abroad but born and brought up on the Isle of Wight and with Isle of Wight roots going back hundreds of years. :) I used to commute from Southampton to Newport from 2013 to 2015 PAGE 24 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Moved off the island 2 months ago after living there for 16 years family on island and it's my childhood home very frequent visitor Grew up on the island, regularly visit family and friends. Would live there if I could get a job. Grew up on Island left for university etc. Home is the island family all live here Grew up on island and have lots of friends and family there. I lived on IOW from 2002 - I moved off to mainland April 2016 - had no choice on pension Cldnt afford hi rise fares - Un able to see my grandchildren &family Work on both sides of the Solent running a business which services events all over the country. Stay at home mum Lived on the Island for most of my life recently moved away. Have family and friends there that I visit frequently. I am I student in high school I live on the island and work on the mainland 75% of the time. Worked on the island since 1968 (Plessey Radar) Note: many clients are based on the mainland, requiring 2-3 ferry trips per week, sometimes more Employed by mainland company, work on and off island, no commute (lorry driver) Currently residing on the mainland and looking for work. Housewife Active in voluntary health sector Self employed Full-time parent career for a child with disabilities. Self emplyoyed living on the Island. Full-time Mother and homemaker Employed on mainland live on isle of wight A former island resident who relocated to the mainland due to commuting fatigue and cost. Member of armed forces, unable to live and commute to island, but return on weekend and leave periods I also travel to the mainland a lot for work. Placement student living and working on island for a year Self-Employed, my work regularly takes me to the mainland. Doing some online sales. Housewife Have holiday home on the Island Self employed Part time employed. full time student. Soon to be attending Portsmouth university Very regular visitor to the island and with plans to move to the island within 2 years. Housewife Self-employed and employer Shop owner Self-employed & living on isle of wight Have an office on the island and the mainland so commute a bit and a part time student in Portsmouth so travel over at least twice a week. Just lost Business had to Move away could not afford Ferries any more Born and Bred IOW to Self employed and living permanently on the Isle of Wight Self employed Housewife Studying and commuting to mainland and working part-time on island. PAGE 25 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Grew up on the IOW, regularly return to visit family. Parents live on the Isle of Wight Self employed living on the IOW Signed off sick. Born and still at heart an islander Ref Q4: Frequent visitor with accommodation on island. Islander born and bred. Married & looking after child Former iow resident employed and living on the mainland. Self employed Self employed living on Island House parent Former IW resident, born and raised there, also have other family inc. mum and brother Own my own business. Travelling to mainland most weeks. Btw, why have this field if you have to fill in from the drop down menu? The drop down menu is not relevant. Business owner I have a business on both the island and mainland Self Employed Living on the Island, Commuting to the Mainland Grew up on the isle of wight but moved away for employment. I grew up on the island until I was 16. And still have many family members I visit frequently there. Born and raised on the island, left for university and have lived on the mainland since due to work options on the island being limited. Family still live on the island and I have recently relocated from Kent to Southampton to be nearer to support them whilst still holding down a well paid job. Employed on mainland but work from home on IOW Live on the Isle of Wight as well as work on it.. but have ALOT of family and friends on the mainland I am IW born and bred. I moved away to live in Hampshire in 2016 as I am fed up with the way that the ferries were governing my life in terms of time, money, frustration etc. I wanted to see my grandchildren but the ferries were preventing that too often. Housewife and carer for Husband. homemaker self employed I am employed and live on the Isle of Wight but also commute once per week. Lived on Isle of Wight ten years. Had to leave due to financial constraints Born and bred on the Island, but now non-resident. Live on Isle of Wight but commute 3 weeks out of 4 to mainland IoW Second home owner Disabled Self employed and living on mainland Disabled Non working disabled Military Self employed forced to move to mainland as communting costs were too high to make it worth while. Live on the Isle of Wight and own home there. but work overseas. Commute back to the island often. Holiday home on Isle of Wight Business Owner which has a business which is based on the Island but also in London. PAGE 26 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Carer for my disabled son Left the island due to lack of progress Off sick long term Island born, expecting to return in next few years Dance teacher Self employed Full time carer Navy Self employed - Living and working on the island - work requires me to commute to the mainland a few times a month Born and bred on island but currently working abroad for one more year Self employed living on the Island and travelling for work here, on mainland and abroad Living on the island studying on the island but the job prospects here are minimal. How ever I have a son who I wouldn't move away from family so commuting is the only possibility Housewife Live both in london and the Isle of Wight Self employed and living on the IOW Retired due to being disabled for the last 25 years. Born, bred and educated on the island, moved away for work I will be commuting to study in Portsmouth as of September. Three days a week. Full time student too Employed work on island, mainland and world wide All family live in IOW living abroad now, but from the Isle of Wight and lived there for 18 years Born and raised in the Isle of Wight now living and working on the mainland And self employed on island, and employed on island Lorry driver going over to mainland weekdays Self employed on I.o.w I also commute one day a week to the mainland I was planning to study this year on the mainland, but had to cancel partly due to cost and travelling difficulties. Off work due to medical reasons Former resident with family on the island Also doing a distance learning masters degree. Self-employed Homemaker and looking after baby daughter Family live on the Isle of Wight Self Employed to be precise. I commute to the mainland for work around 4 times a month. I run a sole-trader hospitality business, demonstrating a highly acclaimed, global kitchen gadget to the hospitality, catering and tourism trade on the Isle of Wight and across the South Coast of England. Self employed and live on the isle of wight Self employed, holiday provider Small business owner on the Island Self employed Apprenticeship housewife I live on the island and work both on the mainland and abroad PAGE 27 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • self employed Due to illness I have family on island and would like to see them more often. However, I used to live on the island and all of my family still does so I commute back fairly regularly. Live on the Island but work both on and off the Island (self-employed) House wife. Husband works fulltime Primarily work from home so limited commuting required. Self employed on the island Ex islander who has to come back and visit all friends and family Self employed My family left the IOW for work purposes, we didn't want to go, but had no choice. If a fixed link existed we would have been able to remain employed without leaving our home. Studying for doctorate. Employed by NHS. Would love to go back to my previous workplace to work. My partner lives on island and I work in Ascot and stay in Farnborough whilst I'm working, because of the logistical cost of a daily commute I return to the island on my rest days only. I am a apprentice working in engineering and I travel to the mainland all year round. Self employed - run a business on iow Home maker, with a hubby who works on the island Self Employed Stay at home dad Self employed Self-employed and living on the Isle of Wight Self employed living on island, alternating between working on island and mainland. I used to live on the island but recently relocated Full time mother Self employed musician Work from home for a mainland company I use the red funnel twice a week My work requires frequent ferry travelling Self-employed and Isle of Wight resident. Self-employed. I also travel and work in the mainland 1-2 days per week... Housewife, husband works on mainland 5 days a week Self employed occasionally work on mainland Self employed unable to get a job in my skill set for the last 5 years Disabled Unpaid Carer living on island I live on the island and commute every day for university Family. And friends find it hard to visit in the current climate of lack of money If we don't find a cheaper way to commute between the island and mainland we will loose the island as transportation cost are getting ridiculous young people are leaving the island as there is no full time employment for them This question does not allow for self-employed or say other so my answer above is incorrect and I picked the closest. I am self-employed, living on the island, working mainland and abroad approximately 5 times a year. Work in Mansfield two weeks then live on the Island two weeks PAGE 28 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Stay at home mum Employed on the mainland but live on the island Self employed living on the island I will hopefully get a job as bank employee in Portsmouth by March God willing. Disabled Currently on Mat. leave from college. Self employed and living on the isle of wight Self employed Moved to the mainland as cost of commuting was too high making it only choice to move to mainland! Employed and living on the mainland but with a bedroom at parents address on the island Was born on islands and my family still live on the island I can't read all of the wording above. I was born on the Isle of Wight but moved to the mainland for work. I travel back to the island most weekends and have a property there which I currently rent out. Self employed, work on the island Why can I not choose other for number 5? This survey has flaws. self employed islander Self employed .. Working on both the island and mainland. Self employed running a carpentry firm. Ex iow resident born n breed Self employed owner of B and B Self employed But I am from the mainland originally and travel back to see friends and family regularly. Disabled Self employed living and working on the island registered disabled,unable to work Stay at home mum Army family we own a house on the island but live in army accommodation. We intend on returning. Self employed Question 9 Participants were asked “Are there any other factors that you feel should also be considered within an independent IOW Fixed Link Study?” These are responses from those answering NO to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? • • • • • No a complete waste of time and money if you do not like what is going on the island then leave. Becoming a dead dormitory like Hayling Island Should not be done This should not just be a fixed link study, but a proper study to look at all methods of increased connectivity. But only if a business case can be made, not just a few individuals who are lazy and don't want to get a ferry, because they have jobs on the mainland. I suggest you move if your not happy. The effects on house prices when people working in London use the Island as a dormitory or snap up village or seaside houses for weekend or holiday homes. The PAGE 29 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • pressure this would cause to build on large expanses of countryside, leading to decreased tourism, destruction of habitats for wildlife, greatly increased traffic,a loss of the strong sense of community and a much reduced standard of living for islanders who live here full-time. Any possibilities of compromise with existing ferry services that may offer an alternative to a fixed link. Sources of Funding to include the likely return on investment based on reasonable projected usage of the structure & likelihood of landowners at either end reasonably being open to compulsory purchase or sale of land before committing ANY Iow council monies into the independent study. No, don't waste the money, if you don't like being on an island, move to the mainland This and Q8 are very difficult to answer as I have already answered that I do not think the study should be undertaken. Loss of jobs from the ferry companies/Impact of greater road traffic clogging up what is an already decrepit road network. This should NOT be paid for by the council. The council does NOT have enough money for essential services. Shear volume of traffic and population in the island, it's too small to fit any more traffic on, look at the congestion in town everyday! I don't think we should be wasting time effort and money on fixed link Change how the ferries operate instead of focusing on a fixed link because you will never get funding for it. It's easier to make changes to infrastructure already in place than to completely change it. A train tunnel could be useful, but no more cars. Yes. The fact that the vast majority of people living on the Isle of Wight are opposed to it. location of the link cheap travel for students where to put this link who is going to pay for this no public money to be spent on this who will end up paying for this where will it go? NO Damage to charm & quiet of island location of bridge/tunnel total cost where will money come from where on island to where on mainland who will end up paying for this? cost to use Where will it be built? total cost that it should not exceed Your survey is a bit flawed, i don't think there should ne a feasibility study but i still have to rank the factors. waste no public money to fund this the location of the link final location total cost of project the location A fixed link would destroy what makes us special and an ISLAND! With any kind of fixed link, the Island will no longer be an island, but a suburb of Portsmouth and Southampton. PAGE 30 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • a limit on total cost to build where will it be built? no government funding the cost to use a rail link only where to place it yeah, don't do it WHO WILL PAY FOR THIS? what 2 towns to connect how much will it cost Where to build it? I think this will cost a huge amount of money with little benefit. Where is the money for this coming from, when other issues such as education, healthcare and the provision of maintenance to the existing roads need attention? Have you tried driving in Newport on a Saturday. Our roads could not take the pressure. They are already in a poor state. As I do not see any need for a study all remaining questions are pointless who ever put this survey together is biased its location where will it be built? total cost location decide where the link goes The issue is not about the word "Island" and whether you, as a pro development body, can define the Isle of Wight as "still an island" with a tunnel. I do not think atudy is needed. A Fixed link crossing is not necessary. where to build total cost where should it go? which 2 towns will it connect? who will pay for this? where would we build this? Financing the link has to paid for ...how? use private money only only those for it should pay for it cap the cost, ie £500 million, if more stop project the location of bridge/tunnel as i don't want it, I shouldn't have to pay towards it There other options that need to be explored other than a tunnel which is most likely the highest cost option. I don't want to be paying for this Where will funding come from? House prices, road capacity, air quality, cost to residents Do you want a fixed link Yes or No which 2 towns will it link cost to use it where exactly will it connect to mainland only fund with private investment "Do not ruin his beautiful island by opening it up to over population like the mainland. It's only as such due to the fact that it's not part of the mainland." The currently proposed plan is clearly ridiculous. Obviously, whoever drew it up has never been to Lee-on-the-Solent or Stubbington, which have turned into a traffic rat-run PAGE 31 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • (& usually a crawl) in the mornings and evenings because people are unable to get in or out of Gosport by the main roads. Even in the "quiet" times of day, it is a crawl to get through Fareham and into Portsmouth or even just onto the M27. From the Island's point of view, the tunnel would generate a lot more traffic entering a road system the has not moved on from the 1950's and has no space in which to do so. The result of this would be a total gridlock of island roads, particularly at weekends and on Bank Holidays. This and other factors such as an increase in crime and other unsociable factors drifting through the tunnel, would spoil the Island permanently, to the extent that it would just become another suburb of the greater Portsmouth / Fareham / Waterlooville conurbation, and not a quiet & rather special place. "WE ARE AN ISLAND AND WISH TO REMAIN SO - PART OF OUR CHARM AND OUR SAFETY. (Having to complete question 8 - assumes too much in favour, especially having 10 as highest number. Trick question!). WE ARE AN ISLAND, ACCEPT IT, LEARN TO LOVE IT!" who will fund this? from where to where how much will it cost where to build this link who will end up paying for this i don't want any part of this where to put this? only use private investment 1)Potential increase in crime. 2) Adverse effect on B and B and hotel industry as more people would do a day trip. 3) Level of traffic gridlock that already exists on the mainland exit route. 4) Cost of a study at a time when services to the vulnerable are being cut back. squirrels. police levels. higher crime rate. Higher traffic volumes leading to air pollution.Higher traffic volumes leading to unpleasant living , for people living alongside already busy roads such as Fairlee Road. I believe the isle of wight should actually own a ferry company thus the profits would come back into the island. Red Funnel is up for sale. How this will be a positive change to the iow. We are called Isle of Wight. Not tunnel of wight where to put this? location of link where will it go where are the funds for this? Being as this will only be a limited survey, a %age of the IW population are lacking computer skills, how can this survey be truly representative of the views of the IW. And more importantly, should any mainlander have ANY SAY AT ALL in the future of the IW. I know most fixed link dreamers hate this expression, but if you don't like living on this beautiful island, the ferry is only £26 one way! are you willing to pay for this? yes/no linking what 2 towns where is the money for this? where will it end up on the mainland? The amount of homeless people and beggars coming over will increase. who will be funding this? make sure only private investment is used from where to where exactly none of my money/taxes are spent on this Cost of study. Crime PAGE 32 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ye....dont do it. The views of all residents should be taken in a proper REPRESENTATIVE survey not this self-selecting survey only available to those with internet access There needs to be a clearly defined benefit both short and long term. where would it go? put it where? Widen all roads first don't put it anywhere near Seaview where the money will come from? those who want this should pay for it as long as I am not paying towards this where to site this The definition of an island. No where the money will come from where on the mainland will it emerge where will funding come from? who will pay for this where to put it? Cost in a time of austerity, how many millions how would it be funded We are an island and should not be joined with the mainland "12 month employment with decent living wages. Time taken to queue up waiting for a boat and if you're lucky enough to get on! Cost of getting off the island and the anxiety for whether you'll manage to make your flight/coach/train and being able to return!" Crime, loss of island jobs. Increase traffic on already badly repaired roads. Loss of island identity. Wildlife e.g red squirrels Whi is paying for this ? Where to put it Where will it be? Only use private money where will it be sited only use private investment where will it go across the water? who is paying for this The rate of anti social behaviour it will course, more theft and unwanted behaviour where will it be? where to cross solent where will it cross? no public money should be involved If you choose to live on an island why make it the mainland! total cost to build & use cost to use how much will it cost? who is paying for it? position of link SUSTAINABILITY,cost factors,including traffic controls as it would mean total gridlock.pollution monitoring as the pollution will be horrendous, total infrastructure upgrades on the majority of roads as they are little more than cart tracks in many places, and a better life control support as the need for air ambulances will be paramount as the road gridlock will lead to serious if not fatal delays,also a bigger and larger police fore as PAGE 33 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • we will become an away day paradise for the full gambit of criminals who will ply whatever they are into with ease as they will run amok in our environment of little or no policing in the full 24 hour day they will have to commit there corruptions when the uncontrolled linkage is built. only use private investment where money will come from must not affect present arrangements from where to where? where will it be? where money will come from where it will be sited Stop building new properties as the local infrastructure is at breaking point as it is. Having a fl will only make things worse Makes transportation on isle of wight cheaper there are 3 different boats that access the island it doesn't need a tunnel No Crime. Cost. Tunnel fares. Effect on the Island community. where will it be built no public money involved Border security Making it pedestrian/cyclist accessible. Losing jobs due to ferry companies going out of business All forms of transport this should not just focus on car as things are will change Archaeological, geographical and geological surveys Crime What do you people not understand about the word island, move if you have a phobia of being surrounded by water Crime, special places of interest, listed buildings The damage to the culture on the isle of Wight Away day crime. Tourists like ferries. Island way of life destroyed. Crime. The impact on the island of an in increace in ethnic minority groups moving to the IOW. Costs, explore government subsidies for ferries, focus on islanders using local businesses and maintaining money in the local economy. Don't waste our time or money A fixed link would ruin the whole character of the Island Impact on property prices, and affordability for Islanders. Financing any such link Pressure on roads and services "Villages and towns losing their sense of community as people will only use them at night and work over the water. The appeal of coming to the Island on a boat as part of the holiday. Could lose the Islands sense of identity." THE ISLAND SHOULD BE LEFT AS ALWAYS BEEN PEACE AND QUIET AND PEACEFUL. Do waste any money on it. Crime rate increase Effect on countryside areas I moved here to be away from the mainland Only use private money Move to the mainland if you do not want to live on an island PAGE 34 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Highlight that we don't need one, but that we should focus on improving ferry services / costs where possible Do not require a fixed link born and bred islander do not want overners dictating to us. if we had a fixed link the policing would nee to be increased No Yes the mainland and how local residents feel about it and how it will effect their lives and the local enviroment The effect of hundreds of more people packing on to the island disrupting the lives of Isle of Wight residents. The cost to build a fixed link will never be a viable option, the council should not be wasting tax payers money on such a stupid idea, this has been aired on an almost 5 yearly cycle, each time just adds more noughts to the cost. People live here because they want to live on an island There shouldn't be a fixed link. It takes away the authenticity of of the island being an island Loss of jobs within the ferry companies. Also the crime rate may increase with an easy access for any vehicle at any time using a fixed link to the island. More congestion on roads. Isle of Wight roads will need to be re designed. Build it from where red funnel is ... Makes sense as they are up for sale No "Keep the island an island. Much more attractive for tourism. " "Island residents! The quality of the roads. Festivals. " Crime and preserving our culture as being separated from the main land. Not being racist but being separated from the mainland has saved us British people from being diluted by other diverse cultures. I just think we need to use the Island to preserve what is left of the British Culture and make it the garden of Great Britain. Other cultures want to show and save their cultures, why can't we? no Referendum for the residents to have their say who will pay for this where to put this where it will be built a maximum cost the mainland end location Effects on already badly surfaced roads. "Question 8 is far too leading for those who don't want to a fixed link at all. It should be an option to leave this question or state as such and still be able to submit the survey. The fact we're an island so don't need a fixed line keyboard and this whole exercise should be stopped due to it wasting valuable time and resources" I believe the ferry companies should be forced to offer better fares to residents especially at high seasonal times. Shouldnt be considered at all. Just aim for cheaper ferry travel/\ crossing please As someone who originally lived on the mainland, people who move to an island, moved to an island for a reason. Keep the fixed link free to all islanders PAGE 35 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Whether it joins he island to the mainland so the island is no longer an independent community Definitely NO fixed link , about time you stopped wasting our money , this has been going on since the late 1950's !! We are an Island and should be proud of living on an Island , if you are not then just leave !! Who actually wants one Losing indenting/culture/charm as an island NO FIXED LINK ! Yeah don't bother! Why ruin a lovely island full of beautiful views with either a Bridge or if you do a tunnel it will just backlog the islands roads which are already under strain! Just fight for farer ferry fares. Less expensive that way and I am sure easier to arrange than a tunnel. Plus, who's going to compensate those workers for the companies who are simply just making a living? They'll all be out of jobs. waste of time and our money whether us mainlanders want this The risk to smaller bisnesses such as b&bs. Tourists may find it cheaper to stay on the mainland and drive over if that were possible. Barriers to an effective ferry service. "I really don't want a fixed link, too many people will want to be here all the time , our council won't be able to afford the up keep of our buildings and roads being used loads more all the time! It will be heavy usage and no longer an island! We will Loose our Red Squirrels and we will gain giant doremice , we don't need a fix link , it is people who live on the mainland who want one! It will ruin our individual island and people will take it for granted and it will ruin tourism ! " "No Complete waste of time & money" who will fund this? where on the mainland will it link up? House/rent price rises. Wages will not increase for self employed or public sector, so people will be forced off the Island. House prices WILL increase with a "cheap" tunnel, and tourism will go down due to it being too busy. The Island attracts tourists because of the slower pace of life, and the ferry journey. Property prices No public money involved Where the money will come from Where will it be built? Why do we need one? Crime Where it makes landfall on the Island. Is the island losing its well known status of only being accessible by ferry? Doesn't that take away some of the charm of it? "Crime coming over to the island. To much traffic as roads are bad enough in the summer. Our roads can't take it" Massively concerned with fixed link and impact on wildlife especially red squirrels. There is a greatly increased chance of grey squirrels reaching the island with the fixed link. Environmental concerns need to be looked at properly. "Yes the silent majority who don't know of this biased survey. Question 8 and 9 assumes the survey is a good thing. It is a waste of money in present day restrictions. " The red squirrels habitat will soon be dominated by grey squirrels from the mainland if there is a tunnel. The Isle of Wight is famous for its chalk cliffs AND red squirrels. Let's think about the environment first, what little is left of it in this increasing industrial and infrastructure world. PAGE 36 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It's a waste of money. The increased rate in unemployment across the Isle of Wight and across the South Coast of England. Everyone at Red Funnel, Wightlink and Hovertravel will be made redundant, causing hundreds of thousands of job losses. Current island public services only capable for existing residents and visitors. Road network for peak times already tested to limits. Housing prices going u[ Second hospital Ryde or Sandown area no Cost Cost to use the tunnel and the impact on ferry services. DONT DO IT! we dont want or need this bollocks! the ferries make the island what it is, if there was a fixed link we would be linked to the scum in the rest of the country I believe if you're a born and bred islander they should have more of a say in this debate than people moving here within the last 5 yrs. Islanders know how are island should be kept and we'll look after it the most. Crime and possible increase if a fixed link was installed Council money should not be spent on this they should stick to their core duties and required services. Increase in crime, housing demands, roads are terrible already without increase in population. Instead of wasting money on a study for a tunnel that no one wants. Spend the money on making the ferry companies reduce their prices. Look at coppings bridge in Newport and the constant traffic congestion from everywhere heading into Newport. More importantly look at why wightlink are allowed to do anything and poor red funnel were denied everything. Red funnel are far more superior with their excellent customer service and cheaper prices than wightlinks terrible service and fares. Spend the money on a bridge From fairlee road on the island over to the dual to reduce traffic so we can get to work on time. Why would we be able to have any more cars here when we can't cope with the amount at present and our waiting times to see a GP are horrendous already. No to a tunnel. That's why we choose to live on an island. And I have and all my generations of family have lived here so we have every right more than the second homes people to be listened to. Stop wasting money. Don't Do it! The increase in vehicles coming onto the islands already overloaded roads! Toll prices The reasons behind a small group of Rich people wanting a fixed link, motives for this need to be known. Isle of Wight IS TOO CROWDED. We DO NOT need the added pressure of more numbers Cost benefit analysis - the published numbers don't add up. The damage to Sea life and increased tidal flow plus a huge risk for large ships to go off course and damage the tunnel resulting in a huge disaster. Where the entrance to the tunnel will be. Whether it will be a toll system and if so how long it would take for the initial cost to be recuperated. Where the money would come from to pay for the tunnel because money could be spent on improving facilities on the Island. We are closing public toilets through lack of money!!! This island cannot sustain more traffic. roads, parking, safety. This small island cannot take much more. The agenda of those who are doing this survey. The opinions of islanders who are not computer savvy and don't have a voice in this. "Safety of Island.At moment we are secure. Fixed link will cause undesireables coming to Island. What happens when we also have Bad weather. PAGE 37 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Where also do you expect to finance this Tunnel. A Beautiful Island will be ruined. " Housing and population The price to travel through the tunnel. Cheaper for island residents and no stupidly expensive as it is to use the ferry services. Make sure the gateways to each tunnel opening is sufficient enough to cope with large amounts of traffic. There should be a link, we are an independent island Fixed link not required. Crime levels would increase dramatically. As they would have easy access to the island. Our police struggle with the island as it is let alone with a increase of people comming to and from the island. No, it has been talked about for over 100 years. Crime. "What happens to all the people employed by the ferry companies? " The impact it will have on the ferry companies that some of us rely on for work! The local communities of wherever it could be placed / noise / disruption. A fixed link would increase the population of the island rapidly, destroying rural communities. Additional traffic would worsen an already poor road network Effect on island when the fixed link has forced ferries out of business, and then is closed long term due to fire or similar issue like eurotunnel has been! Levels of crime increasing with a fixed link People generally want the links because the are from the mainland. Maybe they should have understood what living on an island was like rather than coming here then trying to change it. It would bring more money to the island which would boost all the businesses on the island, places wouldn't be as run down as they are now. No Immigration Yes, the fact that most genuine Islanders don't want a fixed link!!!!! Feasibility We don't want a fixed link Imigration, crime "It's never going to happen spend money on roads and making hospital better as can't cope with the amount of people on island. Tunnel no way But ferries prices need to be capped " "Definitely the factor of what and why people are attracted to the island. The fact the ferries see increased business year after year and this is why they invest millions. The island is not indecline the ferry companies see more people travelling each year" The ferry service should just be cheaper rather than putting a bridge in Dont want tunnel not important to me or island. Its an island the clue is in the name. So fed up of fixed link talk year after year time would be better spent focusing on making the island more self Sufficient we have a jewel here and responsibility to keep it precious Terrorists were from and were to We are an island and we want to stay a island That it will no longer be an island and will lose its charm. Our red squirrel populatiob will be in grave danger from greys. A lot of islanders don't want access to be that easy as drug running will get worse. PAGE 38 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • No just do not bother its an Island What will happen to the Ferry services - will they be priced out and disappear leaving the single connection to and from the Island ? Cost:..... my council tax has gone up but services are down so don't waste my money we are an island The island would lose what makes it special here. Crime Rate, Would like to know what people would do for parking cars if a tunnel was to be built Crime wave Will be massive if u go for a fixed link . Fact N/A Potential increase in crime as the Police often stop offenders before they get onto the IOW or before they leave due to the barrier the ferries give. It is a massive deterrent for the criminals and this has come from their own mouths. The opinions of true islanders, i.e. people born and bred on the island should be sort. Far to many people move to the island and then complain about the ferry service, if they don't like the present arrangements l suggest the go back to where they came from and leave the island as it is. The Isle of Wight is a special place and any fixed link would completely change the character of the island, I the fixed link gang go back to from hence they came. We shouldn't have one. We don't need a tunnel! Ignore the tunnel, it won't happen, fixed fair pricing for Island residents on the ferries Why bother it will just spoil the iow and the idea off an island No tunnel...Bridge maybe Why are we turning an island into part of mainland uk. If people don't like it they could move!!!! Where will it be? where to build it? who will operate this where will it be built who will pay for this where will it link to the mainland what will it cost to build/use where the money will come from? where will it be built No public money spent on this Where the money can be better spent Nationalizing the ferry services We are an Island that means that we are apart from the mainland . I DO NOT want a fixed link of any kind. Factors are that the island is dying and it is much needed. We must still have our hospital as those on mainland cannot take care of the patients they have and cannot take us on too. not so biased no public expendiure don't do it! don't spend public money on this no public money involved where will it be sited? The social impact should be comprehensive - not focussed on simply immediate effects, but also on the fact that once a fixed link is implemented, it will effectively diminish us from being an island. The consequences will be irreversible and we will loose one of the most important, but perhaps somewhat intangible elements of our Island culture, heritage PAGE 39 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • and way of life. The degree of effect on the less tangible consequences must be fully explored as part of any study if it goes ahead, otherwise, it will not be a feasibility study, it will simply be a hidden advertisement. The feasibility study must be independently conducted and fully transparent. Cost for island residents to be heavily discounted Get rid of Feeney As long as Carl Feeney is not involved Where to build it Only use private money Where is it going to be built? Only use private finance Who will pay for this? Where will it link to the mainland? Who will pay for this? Where to build it This is a bogus survey. I have already stated in Q 7 that I am AGAINST a feasibility study, like the majority of Islanders.Therefore Q 8 is totally irrelevant as it is based on an assumption that such a study is going ahead. However I have been forced to fill it in in order to submit my views. No public money involved how it affects current services must not effect present services where will it be? no public finance involved Absolutely ridiculous idea! Don't live on an island if you can't handle using a ferry to get to work! The NHS across the whole UK could use the £1.2 Billion. But instead you want to build a 4 mile tunnel so the 140,000 inhabitants on the Island can drive to work instead of sailing.... waste of time and money! Feasibility - I doubt that it is possible (for a realistic price in terms of monetary cost and environmental costs) to drive a tunnel under the solent seabed. only use private finnace where the money will come from where to join the mainland from where to where? who will pay for this? where will be cross the solent where to put the link? who will pay? where to build it who will pay to build this? where to build a link who is going to pay for this? at what cost? where to place this where will it be? who will fund this? not us youngsters! Where to build this who will pay for this? where to build it I don't feel we should have a fixed tunnel.... It would be the end for the island.... where will the 2 ends be? who will pay for this, not me nor my taxes PAGE 40 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • where it will be built location of both ends which location to build this where to build it? no public funds involved who will operate where the funds will come from There are far too many where will it be built where the money will come from where to build it no cost to public public should not have to pay for this where the money will come from who will pay for this? do you want a link or not link or no link who will operate the link I have completed 8 but this is really irrelevant in the light of my answer to 6 and 7 why bother with study? who will operate it? no link at all where to site it. no question 8 as its biased whether islanders even want a study who will pay for this? who is going to fund this? where will it be located? only use private investment no public money should be involved What residents want ie a fixed link or not! There should be no fixed link No. give up on the expensive fantasy Forget this fantasy! Only use private investment Crime, Road Safety, Agriculture, Population. There would need to be a massive road building program all over the Island No infrastructure for increase in traffic and population. General parking a problem. Hospital parking hopeless. Medical centres cannot cope. A fixed link will be the downfall of the island. "The real impact of loosing NHS services to the mainland. The impact of crime Pollution from extra vehicles " The fact that it wouls be enormously costly and and such monies would be better spent supporting essential services on ther island would change the character of the Island for the worse All of the extra roads needed throughout the island. only use private investment How it will negatively impact on Island life; increased traffic; surge in house prices further pricing out locals; detrimentally impacting on the unique nature of the island; what real PAGE 41 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • impact it will have on tourism (We do very well for tourism and is increasing all the time. Tourists value the ferry experience as part of their holiday); cost of using tunnel (would bound to be significantly higher than any initial guesses as rising costs of construction would need to be paid for & tunnel operators would naturally undercut ferries by small margin to make maximum profits). cost of travel I think.the study would be a complete waste of money! Impact on housing prices and employment Island infrastructure cannot accommodate more cars and lorries Not needed, If an island environment is not right then move, is that simple stop wasting time and effort on such a pointless exercise. Cost reductions and time getting to and from the island/ mainland Waste of money both link and survey Crime could increase if their was easier access to the mainland destruction of island culture, how to prevent island from becoming bedroom community crime Whether residents of the Island actually want the Island to be attached to the mainland, and B) Whether residents of Gosport have been consulted about this fixed link, and the extra traffic this will cause in their area of Gosport which is already very congested - I know this as I have lived there. Waste of time and money - if the government had the cash don't you think they would spend it on adult social care, the nhs, schools etc YOU KNOW THE REALLY IMPORTANT ISSUES !!!!!!!!! Do not think there should be such a study Money and cost to the environment The Island would loose identity and become just another part of Hampshire like Hayling Island. The study should look at the whole picture and the value of the Iasland as geological and historical unique part of the UK. How will it be managed and funded. Should remain in public ownership or not? If not surely it will head the way of the ferries.. "Don't bother, not many people on the Wight want a fixed link, as it will lead to a influx of miscreants and ne'er-do-wells. " "House Prices Transport Costs " Crime "Cost of fixed link, creating the land space for this on both the Island and mainland and the cost of its ongoing safety maintenance. The considerable money this will take could be better spent on Island residents to support their health, social care, education and funding the cost of mainland hospital trips. The Island does not have the size, infrastructure, roads or capacity for increased traffic. Festivals manage it by containing people within site spaces and encouraging the use of public transport. " There shouldn't be a fixed link Taking into account residents view, not everybody has access to the internet Bearing in mind the traffic congestion on the mainland around Portsmouth and Southampton, it should be considered that these congestion problems will affect the Island considerably as knock on effects Rendering existing faciities unsupportable and thgerefore removing alternatives for choice or emergencies where the funds come from don't waste public money on this Hike in traffic Congestion. SEE ANSWER 10 PAGE 42 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Crime Island roads are not maintained to a high enough standard to cope with a daily in and out movement of traffic. no public money involved no cost to public only use private finance no public finance involved Where will it cross the Solent? Where will the funds come from? Yes. This survey does not appear to be about a "Feasibility Study" as the questions are somewhat biased in nature - even assuming a "tunnel" in Question 8. A Feasibility Study should be looking objectively and rationally at the Strengths, Weeknesses, Opportunities and Threats. The two main criteria on "Feasibility" are the cost required and the value to be obtained. There is no way the Isle of Wight Council would fund an Independant FL Study and hence Question 7 is a non starter and shows questionable competence in these questions. why is it needed No public monies used who is going to pay for this? rail link only only funded privately no public money involved where will it cross the solent who will fund this? where it will be sited Yes look at other places, see how much the tolls cost!! Think about how long you could sit in traffic for... probably longer than a ferry crossing.. ever been to the dartfort tunnel?? And the traffic would end once on the island. The roads are blocked up here as enough in the summer, do you really want that all year?? The island would become gridlocked everyday! cost and impact on Island life Effects on population growth and accelerated building. "More employment for younger people More affordable Housing" no public finance involved rail link only no public funds should be used from where on island to where on mainland which town/village to build it from Whether easy access to the Island would cause it to become a suburb of Portsmouth like Hayling Island. Detrimental effect to tourism and businesses as access too easy - Isle of Skye was ruined by bridge, hotels and businesses shut as only day visitors Island residents should not pay one penny towards any costs involved if any type of fixed link was instigated. where to build it no public funds involved nowhere suitable to build this what will it cost? where is it to be built? where to build this? no public monies involved PAGE 43 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • where will it cross? More mainland people coming, higher property prices, local population being even more priced out of the property market. where to build this? where to build one? who will pay to build this? where is it going to be built? no government or council financial involvement who is going to fund this? where will it be built? who is going to build it? should be no public money involved where any funds will come from Listing these factors like this is not a good way to establish anything useful "PLEASE NOTE: I have ONLY completed section 8 since it mandatory (I have simply place the items 1 to 1o starting at the top!!!) AND further more, since it is mandatory, it presuppose that there WILL BE a feasibility study. I am against a fixed link and to be fair this survey should ask the question as item 1 and then a negative would compete the survey. By making item 8 mandatory, you force me to complete the ranking that can then be used in your feasibility study because you will use the ranking as part of your argument for the fixed link. Further the inability to use one number twice, artificially establishes a ranking order based on the number and nature of the questions. Item 8 should NOT BE MANDATORY" list only private investors stop wasting your time! don't waste public money on this folly no public money involved who will fund this? no public money involved only use private finance More ferry operators The fact that most people don't want one and a true idea if cost it would cost to do the survey as well as create such a ridiculous link Financial feasibility - this should be the number 1 consideration only use private investment no public money involved only use private investment no public money involved only use private investment only use private investment no public money involved only use private investment only use private investment no public money involved only use private investment only use private investment most of us live here because it is quiet...if there's a tunnel we will just become a suburb of Southampton and Portsmouth and it will kill this beautiful island! Crime, affo rdability of housing, extreme cist if fixed link and disregard of pro link for an all inclusive democratic debate no public investment PAGE 44 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "The cost of building the link and the charges to travel on it as the ferries would probably be put out of business. "no public money should be involved who will fund it cost to use it? who will fund it? who will operate it why is it necessary? Road infrastructure at both ends and its costs. Disruption to environment and local communities. No - as there shouldn't be another one undertaken. What a ridiculous question. You ask me if I believe there should be a study to which I say 'no' then you ask me to rank factors of the study which I don't think should happen - how can I answer that? It is a nonsense. I cannot submit the survey without answering it. I have said no to a study so should not have had to answer question 8 in order to complete the questionnaire. Ferry transport and the hovercraft, Red Jet and Fastcat are fine. They continue to update and improve their services. Only islander opinions should be considered. Not including those who have a second/holiday home that is on the island. Is it necessary? The financial case makes this particular piece of infrastructure unviable. See my letter IWCP Nov 2014. Any study would need to confirm costs, sources of funding, financial viability, forecast of traffic to justify if charges would be similar to ferries as a return on capital, safeguards from abuse for a monopoly etc, etc. Quality of life. Most people are residents because they chose to be irrespective of the ferries. Consider pressure to bring the ferry companies under regulation. They will not be able to hide under eu laws for much longer If people aren't happy living on an island go and live on the mainland. The above ratings section is flawed as it seems to assume than anybody doing this survey is in support of a FL. the cost to use how it can effect commuters who will fund/operate it where funds will come from only use private investment what affect on current links a link from where to where how much to build/use where will the funds come from? cost to use why is it needed no council involvement no public funds involved only use private finance where money will come from Congestion of roads . Increased risk of crime. Gypsies. Most people live here because they want to and they don't want it to be like the mainland. how much to use link cost per trip Who really wants a fixed link other than those who have bought her but chose to work on the mainland? A fixed link would destroy the Island altogether. where will it be built PAGE 45 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • privately financed no public money involved no public investment where will funds come from No. There shouldn't be one. I do not want a fixed link Lst year we had 2.4 million visitors to the island. In peak times it is difficult to travel anywhere. Can you imagine the scenario of endless congestion, all year, no let-up and with numbers far, far in excess of our current numbers - it will be too easy to get here, so the numbers will probably treble, as with no "barrier" i.e. - the sea - we will be swamped with traffic, noise, pollution. It is a nightmare and life here for those who live here will be ruined. We simply do not have the space for all this traffic and our infrastructure would not be able to cope. St Mary's on red alert - as this winter - this would be a permanent state of affairs. GP surgeries would not be able to cope, particularly as the urgent treatment at St Mary's is going. Where do local people fit in? Tourism is wonderful, extra revenue it would bring would be wonderful - but you are missing one vital point here - the very thing that draws people to the island - its beauty, peace and tranquility would be lost. It would become a victim of its own success. As for the ferries/hovercrafts/fast cat - how many would lose their jobs? I regularly travel over to the mainland to visit family - do we really want our beautiful island to be congested like it is over there all the time? Please, think again. Iow council is short of cash, your campaign is a waste of everyone's time "I cannot answer the above questions as my overall rating is 1 and your system doesn't allow for the same number twice " The likelihood of an increase in number of crimes on the island who will operate it? who will own it? what will it cost price cost per car where the money will come from Infrastructure of island cannot support the additional traffic a fixed link would produce cost of project where will it land on mainland private or public funded Crime rates will rise sharply, including vehicle theft, burglaries, and violent crimes (muggings). Island roads won't cope with increased volumes of traffic. Free movement from mainland causing increase in crime and reduced detection Possible effects on crime and disorder where will it start & finish? who will pay for it? where will money come from Cost The red squirel population and other unique island elements would be under threat. The fact that this is an island ie with no fixed link gives it its wonderful relaxed nature and is what attracts tourists. There should be investigation for cheaper more efficient ferry services then most people would be happy where to build it what will it cost "I don't believe there should be a study as the idea is ill thought out. Any fixed link would ruin the Island, open up criminality and cost mega fortune. PAGE 46 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Dont ruin a beautiful island." How will the island cope with the unrestricted number of cars and lorries on the roads. The ferry capacities restrict the amount of vehciles at any one time the price no public money how much will it cost no cost to public The main criteria regarding the I.O.W. is the word ISLAND ! Anyone wanting increased accessibilty should move to the north island. Safety. No public money There is already so much traffic at times like the summer holidays, a fixed link would just be horrendous. If people want to live on an island why then complain it's an island? There are so many people visiting, we don't struggle with tourism. where money will come from no public money involved no council money involved no public money No one seems to consider the mainland in these discussions. A fixed link to the Isle of Wight is not required and opposition would be quite strong. no public money spent on this only private investment save your money, we don't want one we don't want a bridge/tunnel Discounted ferry services for island residents, and subsidies for non-residents who book hotels, restaurants on the island where will it be built? Only important thing is does economic benefit justify cost. It didn't with skye bridge. Giving up "The devastation of our Island businesses by large mainland companies with scale costings and tourism by increases of low spending day trippers at expense of stayers and the quality of our countryside being exploited so that no-one wishes to visit here . Ease of criminals getting off the Island after crime committed. Increase in traffic and building . Fact that Island is different to the overcrowded bad mannered mainland because it is an Island and getting on or off the Island for decent people is a price worth paying to remain so beautiful and largely unspoilt." There should be no fixed link study therefore no factors to be considered. where will the money come from where will cross the solent who should build it That it is undertaken by an impartial third party with no links to either pro or anti link groups. It should also look at the true cost of building such a link and thereafter the cost of using it. where will the money come from No, because it shouldnt happen Sort out the traffic problems into Newport first! A bridge across the River Medina should be first on the agenda, followed by railway provision IWCP "The Island would become gridlocked during the summer months with the extra traffic. Please note how bad the traffic is at the moment in Fairlee Rd due to the floating bridge being closed. " PAGE 47 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Current island road infrastructure cannot cope with extra traffic that generate from a fixed link to the mainland Levels of crime, anti social behaviour, graffiti etc that you see on the mainland compared with the island. roads on island how much to cross? Paid for by the small minority who want a fixed link. the cost Crime rates in comparison to the mainland and how they might be affected question 8 gives no option to not rate at all therefore this survey is useless I don't want a fixed link , a study or anything else so question 8 should have that option of nothing , your survey is useless Cost There are plenty of places to choose to live in the UK which are NOT on a small island, but not many that ARE. I accept the downsides - including the cost of weekly visits to relatives all of whom live on the mainland - because the benefits make it worthwhile. If you don't like it - MOVE!!! Don't ruin it for the rest of us. The well-being of island residents who might find themselves effectively part of the mainland. Total against any fixed link. Rise in crime, increase in traffic with associated pollution, increase in litter and loss of island identity. Opportunity for government to close hospital as Portsmouth hospital will be more accessible A fixed link would destroy the unique relaxed island atmosphere Retail and food prices The obvious one. The IOW is an Island Think about the extent to which the island will become an extension of Portsmouth and Southampton and a commuter island to London. Effect therefore on house prices etc and loss in tourism "What about asking the areas on the mainland that will be affected? Studies only ever ask the IOW what they think of a fixed link. There has already been fixed link studies done - why have yet another one? " "The impact on the Sea Bed and the Ocean Traffic. Congestion with the entrance & exit points." COST OF BUILDING AND MAINTAINING LINK AND COST OF USING IT "It is an ISLAND. Let it remain an ISLAND. " "Crime , more traffic, infrastructure " Cost. Wherever the folly pops out on the mainland you will have a large bun fight. Put this survey in the mainland paper where the tunnel will pop out let every body have a say. I do not support a fixed link study, I do not support a fixed link! I would have put 0 for all topics in study! So there you have it- this is my way of showing I oppose a fixed link! The effect not only on the Isle of Wight but on communities on the mainland. It is selfish to push for a tunnel at the expense of the environmental and social effects at the other end of the link. How many more accidents and deaths will the increase in traffic bring to the notorious country roads on the Island. What level of increased pollution is expected. Why the hell bother! Get over it and if you dont like living on an Island move of it. I commute so it effects me more then most of the wingers who want it. PAGE 48 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Whilst I accept that this is study into a fixed link, I also believe that the accessibility of the Isle of Wight via ferry (and the monopoly of the ferry companies) should also be raised. How it would be funded, including the inevitable budget over run. How long it would take to create. Cost/benefit case is missing. eg delivery budget (must be realistic), source of funding, commercial benefit (to IW), commercial benefit (off IW). Running costs. Toll charge projections. etc. NO Currently the island is sheltered from mainland mentality for children.... stabbing, gabgs, violence is minimal here. Chavvy scummy people will move over here and ruin the island. The amount of land taken by the tunnel outing on the island No study to be undertaken No Criminal activity increase. "IW Council or state owned ferry services instead. Need to protect the unique characteristics of the Isle of Wight both population, landscape and heritage" If people don't like the Island without a fixed link, easy move to the mainland. Crime. Most crime currently occurs around ferry ports indicating a mainland influence. "We are an Island and its great that visitors have a different way of getting to the island. Those that work on mainland and don't like ferry travel simple move to the mainland." Do people who really love this island really want it? don't make me pay for it I live her because its a ISLAND if you want a fixed link move to the main land No tunnel, would cause the end of many small island businesses. . It cannot be viewed in isolation of the spiralling infrastructure pressures, level of building going on, level of second home/holiday home ownership and lack of stewardship evident in the way services are handled on the IOW. Yes "House prices - these are lower than on the mainland but incomes are generally the same. Crime - We'll get more crime because it would be easier to get to the Island, and car theft would increase to mainland levels because it would be easier to get a stolen car off the Island. " cost of study, cost of link, who is expected to pay for it Cost. The money would be better spent on the services that are being cut now. Don't bother, as an Island resident whose family has been here for at least 500 years I value the islands isolation from the mainland way over any need to get to the mainland. I do not want a fixed link and your arguments will NEVER persuade me otherwise. who will pay for the study Crime prevention The Isle of Wight being turned into a hotbed of crime by a fixed link that is neither wanted or needed, cost & who pays "Definitely. Don't waste money on a survey. We all know people live here because they adore ISLAND life. PAGE 49 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Instead spend the money on something useful which will give results, not just a load of hot air! Provide: o Competition for current ferry operators to bring fares down And/or o Provide subsidy for island residents on ferry crossings IMPORTANT!!!! Answers to q8 above will not be helpful. Most people will expect the most important item in the list to be number 1. The number system is back to front!! The answers will be meaningless as most people will ASSUME number 1 is the most important!!!" Island residents should get the fare free or greatly reduced cost Crime Destruction of the Island feel and unique conditions. The cost of the feasibility study which will be a complete waste of money as the majority of residents are against a fixed link. That it should not cost the taxpayer anything and come from private investors only Im a new resident to the IOW, however curently in the summer months and school holidays there are complaints about traffic volume. The traffic flow onto and off the Island is restricted by ferry capacity, however a fixed link would give unrestricted volume of traffic, as 'sorry the island is full' is not going to work and will put more visitors off than it encourages, yes of course there are advantages but the downside would be much worse, crime would undoubtedly increase as residents sense of security is based upon well there are so few places to get off the island, and I know everybody, Southampton and Portsmouth both have higher crime rates and why commit crime where your known and you've already done it when I can drive my stolen car to the IOW, be busy when everyone is out and they leave the door open or have no security and the steal another car to get back to the mainland? Property prices would go up, but they wouldn't necessarily work here, shop here etc, I can see the positives but the negatives far out weigh them, as far as I can see. Wildlife. Cost of this study to a council that can't afford toilets. Crime. And more. "Cost Wildlife impact Pollution levels - both in construction and use" Loss of independence. More crime and more traffic. What will it cost the taxpayer? Would this money be better spent improving the ferries? When the ferry companies income drops will they reduced services? Will parts of the island end up worse off as a result? Does the road infrastructure have the ability to cope with traffic? Where on the mainland is there suitable infrastructure? Is the geology suitable? What impact will there be on social issues? Will crime increase? Will developers then see the island as easier to build thousands of new homes on? Will it actually give an advantage to business? Financing of the construction and level of tolls If you dont want to live on an ISLAND then move to the mainland Abolish it Cost, damage, time, disruption, necessity Bad idea - roads cannot take more traffic. I like living on an island. Please remember that large part of what makes the Isle of Wight interesting and different is that it IS an island. That identity should not be eroded. Also traffic issues if a fixed link was created would be a disaster for the island. We don't need one - if you don't like it being an Island then clear off back to the Mainland A fixed link would completely ruin the character of the Island. We would just become an outpost of the mainland cities with all their problems. This should not even be considered, the Island is very special. PAGE 50 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Our wildlife i.e. Red Squirrels. Extra cost in clearing up roads and hedge-rows. Not enough public loo's, all closed down. Our rates will have to go up to pay for extra cost to accommodate lord knows how many thousands more that will come." Cost & where funding would come from Terrorism "The cost! Where is the money coming from? Tunnel close-down periods for maintenance or following an accident. Retain a ferry option. Delete 'IO' from 'IOW'. Move to the mainland!" Pleasure of living on an 'Island' ? funding CHEAPER FERRY COSTS The Island is an island. Let's keep it as an island. The cost that could be spent on more important things. The effect to our hotels and b&b accommodations. Why would people stay if they can just drive home again straight away and save money!!! The island is an island, do we really want to destroy the beauty that brings as a tourist attraction for the UK. Whether it is wanted, regardless of perceived benefits I do not think a feasibility study is required. Vested interest in the pro-lobby No Cost Location of tunnel ends and impact on those areas It is important that we remain an Island without any fixed link - otherwise we would not really be an island. Leave rhe island independent for its safety, the roads can't take much more tragic. It will make the crime rate go up people can come and go it will make it as bad as the main land if there is a tunnel How much money would leave the island by residents regularly shopping on the mainland. Being that the ferry services are owned by private investment funds that are prioritising shareholder returns against service. The study should also look into the viability of the ferry services & how they intend on maximising shareholder return as we have seen fares double & services halved. Wightlink is currently investing £45 million so that it can run two bigger ferries & thus potentially reducing there three boat service to only two boats. This would result in less ferries, less staff & less running costs against more profit. Will it be a catalyst for gas fracking on the island? How will it affect population growth? Will population growth cause massive building of new housing estates? Infrastructure on the island, the roads are busy now - can you even begin to imagine what our roads could become with 50000 vehicles arriving on a sunny weekend in the summer - have you ever tried to get to Bournemouth on such a weekend! I rest my case the island roads would be totally gridlocked. This is an Island lets keep it that way A tunnel or a bridge would have a negative effect on the special nature of the island in my opinion. Who's going to make the money ? Will any of it stay on the Island ? It's an island. That's the beauty. A link would just make it part of the mainland. Crime will rise. Joyrides speeding everywhere. People who want fixed link should move to the mainland. It'll be cheaper than a bridge or tunnel and more beneficial to those of us who want to keep the Isle of Wight an island PAGE 51 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The reason why people are pushing for it, if you don't like commuting to the mainland, why are you living here? I don't support a fixed link or a feasibility study. A fixed link would lead to the total ruin of the island. I do visit the mainland and have no problem whatsoever with the ferries and am more than happy to pay the fares to maintain the quality of life we have here on the island. I have completed the previous question as o could not continue without doing so but the numbers I have submitted are only there to allow me to continue, they are not my views as I think a study is notbreqyired and would be a total waste of money. I could go on but probably space and time prevents me. Effect on the area around the mainland exit Depending on just how much this study would cost and wether it would be a total waste of time and money, this is an island not just an addition to the mainland Stop bleating on about it. no The high cost to existing residents in monetary and loss of Island environment. Roads able to cope with extra traffic all year round Where money can be better spent! People move to the Island for a reason, that it, it's beauty and peace. With the amount of conflict in the world tourism on the island will, in my opinion, pick up especially with young families wanting a safe environment. I see no benefit in a fixed link, the sailing to the island is part of the holiday. Population growth We are an island and we should stay an island. How can q8 be answered with no approval. Or is it a dead cert.for the survey. A fixed link/tunnell will lead to reduced ferry services, and ultimately less completion, resulting in high cross solent coss Financial impact Can't beieve you haven't consodered COST in the above factors Why people who live on an island want to destroy its island nature? Ignorance or arrogance? This survey will not give an unbiased result. Is it better for people who do not like the constraints of small island living to move to the mainland island. Remember it's an island. The ferries need to be bought to account and restricted from freedom to hike prices but the island is just that and it's why many choose to live here A big consideration should be that if a fixed link is created and should such a link lead to the closure of the ferry links, this will leave the Island with just one method of travel and you will have created a total monopoly! You should also consider the adverse affect on local Island businesses from sole traders such as carpenter's and plumber's to local butchers and accountants or solicitors, who will all have increased competition from similar businesses in Southampton, Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. Impact on island country roads Security Look at a rail tunnel, there would be no additional vehicles on our already busy roads and would attract investment in our struggling IW Railway. Start at Fratton come up at St Johns! people that dont actually want a fixed link "The overall integral 'feel' that bring an island is. By definition, detached. We need fewer large vehicles such as coaches, caravans and articulated lorries, not more. The island road system is unable to cope at peak times now. Encouraging free flow traffic will compound this." Cost PAGE 52 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The cost of an independent survey should not be footed by council or islanders but by the pro link group who wrongly think Islanders want this. It's been looked at before and isn't wanted What to cost would be including time costs in discussion of output A Feasibility study on where this money could be better spent if the work wasn't done. Complete up grading of all the roads on the island to cope with increase of vehicles. I would prefer pricing of ferry services were regulated instead of a fixed link. only the value of the wasted time involved in a project that can only help a few of the 140 thousand residents Money, security wildlife movement (grey Squirrel etc) No It would be of a benefit to one area of the island and one area of the mainland. We are an Island and should stay that way. A fixed link will have a great impact on the community aspect of the Island which will ultimately the infrastructure on the Isle. Therefore look at and focus on improving the current transport facilities and costs Return on investment. Without inward investment it is not feasible . Expecting the fixed link to pay for itself from after link is built is la la land. Shouldn't happen. No fixed link! Crime would soar, Cost, Cost , Cost Cost The likely impact of a tunnel in reducing employment and health provision and increasing crime and traffic on the island. It stands to reason that any fixed link will mean the island no longer needs to be self sufficient in the provision of many jobs and services as these could be provided from Portsmouth or Southampton. The IW would risk becoming a peninsula like Hayling Island where residents are left to queue morning and evening to use the single crossing to the mainland in order to carry out their employment. "What would happen to the hospital??? Would it not just become the most expensive tunnel or bridge??? No one is going to undergo the expense without making a huge profit " cost How a fixed link would be funded Impact on tourism, businesses and quality of life of all residents. Whether the overriding majority of permanent Island residents want it Impact on healthcare services: the isolated nature of the island means that the NHS services on offer are greater than would normally be expected for the population size. I have serious concerns that a fixed link would lead to downgrading of St Mary's and the loss of services such as A&E, consultant-led obstetrics, inpatient paediatrics and emergency surgery with concomitant loss of jobs and potential risk to life, as well as the general inconvenience to islanders. "Yes, whether Carl Feeney is an islander: ie. born on the Isle of Wight. Also, whether we can trust the outcome as honest." House prices, policing and. crime. The Council should NOT pay for the study, even if it asks for one, that should be up to the promoters The loss of the feeling that the Island is our own paradise "Yes If you dont like living on an island....move to the mainland" The negative effect a fixed link will have on the people that live here PAGE 53 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Having a tunnel or bridge would ruin the island. Any one could come . Also criminals would be able to escape easier we don't watch bridge or tunnel Complete waste of time and money that could be better spent on services for the residents. Cost Infrastructure n impact on residence & environment at either end of LINK. It's a complete waste of money this has all been done before. Yes the overwhelming majority of residents are against a fixed link. we are an island its why i live here and want it to stay an island waste of money Whether islanders actually want it! "accidents likelihood of closure alternative access" No fixed study as i am going to stop the fixed link topic after gaining no support. "Unless ""type of tunnel"" is code for road or rail, ease of foot passengers commuting to Southampton or Portsmouth, and easy links for foot passengers to the National Rail Network are essential. Whether the link should be a road link or a rail link. nd the elephant in the room, the vast cost and a cost benefit analysis based on realistic projections." The amount of traffic a fixed link is likely to bring to the Islands road could cause real problems. Cost No because I consider the survey would be a waste of time and money Damage fixed links have done to other islands I've friends on isle of sheppy they consider the bridge one of the government worst mistakes regarding them that live there How it will affect shipping. Unnecessary expense for study and build.....3 ferries n 2 fast crafts is enough. Crime rates Crime How else the money could be spent, rather than pointless questioning about something that is not at all feasible and will not happen. Waste of time and energy. The fact that nobody wants it . Island life is important to its people , and has been for generations. The money, where ever it comes from, must be spent on things we haven't got but seriously need eg healthcare. We keep building more and more housing, a fixed link would encourage even more people, but our healthcare is being cut at every level. Stop wasting time money and trying to be fucking hero. It won't happen you prick. Deal with it. Degradation of local businesses due to ease of access to the island marketplace To allow for postal surveys leave it, do not need one "The current road network is creaking under demand and will have no significant improvement for 25 years due to the PFI. More cars is not an option. • Let's use the money for a tunnel on reopening the island's rail network instead. • Wages. PAGE 54 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Has this survey been written by an imbecile? It would appear so. " Losing several hundred jobs within the ferry companies. That you use the correct abbreviation for the Isle of Wight - IW please! "Effects on: Crime rates. Employment and pay. House prices. Red squirrel protection." "Red squirrels .. Closure / down grade of St Marys Hospital Job threats for all hospital staff " I think that ferry prices should be more affordable instead. Cost Case studies of areas in the UK which are part of the mainland yet still exhibit worse statistics than the Isle of Wight to which a fixed link is claimed to improve. Biodiversity! Value for money against time to deliver. If long payback then Money should not be wasted on a study It's a waste of time and money, if you don't like it, leave. Yes. It's a waste of money because there will never be a fixed link and if there was it would destroy the Isle of Wight. Ridiculous idea. "Who will pay for this ? How long will it take to pay back " The fact that islanders are trapped in the island due to the ludicrous ferry fares to get off even for a day trip personally I feel we should keep the ferry service but I strongly believe that the prices must be challenged. Ferry costs and monopolies Relevant concerns, such as crime rates and the ease of movement from the island should a crime be committed here? It's a load of rubbish !! Lossing our hospital as will be forced to you Southampton Crime. Wildlife. Pollution. Complete ruination of island life. If you have the money to poor into this maybe you should poor it into how the hospital/doctors/schools let alone the roads would cope with this The Isle of Wight is grinding to a halt with the amount of cars we have. How is the situation going to be better with a fixed link? Why will a fixed link be cheaper than the ferries? A the island has survived as an island for thousands of years, if you don't like it being an Island you might consider moving to the mainland, I might if the traffic and amount of house building here goes as expected. The money could be used elsewhere Disturbances No, stupid ranking the above with not being able to use same number twice. Use the money for something worthwhile. no study Loss of Island status, no longer an island, just a part of Portsmouth. Will not work Crime will go up. It's quite simple,if you don't want to cross the Solent by boat live on the mainland. The council on the isle of wight are struggling to deal with the population now. PAGE 55 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Cost....pure and simple Spend the cost of the study on something useful No need for fixed link so no need for study. Therefore q8 irrelevant. Only answered because cannot be submitted otherwise Don't do it. Like being an island. Infrastructure. Spend the available funds on improving ferry services The employment of those from the ferry companies, considering their payment. The ambulance service. The public transport within the tunnel. Should lobby for reduced price ferry for residents Who is going to pay and how much the toll will be How independent is the research? Vested interests? Ferry will loose there business how can you take this away from the founder and history of the Iow Crime levels Don't mess the Isle up! Cost is the number one consideration, both the cost of creating and maintaining it and how competitive it would REALLY be. There's nothing to say it will force the cost of the existing transport down, in fact it could have the opposite effect. Also, people like me, who choose not to have a car will see little/no benefit unless there's some kind of shuttle for foot passengers. AND it's worth bearing in mind this will encourage more to travel with their cards than to come on foot and make use of our public transport network. There's just been massive investment announced in encouraging travel around the island without cars, this isn't exactly complimenting that. The massive costs, even in planning, would be better invested in subsidising ferry costs. Who will pay for it? How would the roads cope with extra traffic No It should look at all aspects of cross Solent travel and not just concentrate on a fixed link. For example, additional ferry services, possibly from competing companies may be more feasible and simpler to introduce than building a fixed link. it will be a waste of money. It has been done before. The silent majority of islanders DO NOT want a fixed link. We are an island. Move elsewhere if you want to live on the mainland Funding source Islanders who would leave if a fixed link were built. cost effectiveness another dartford and severn crossing in the making. there should be no financial input from the council or residents. No "1. Wether it is money well spent- bearing in mind the considerable sums involved if there would be a better return investing that money on the the existing infrastructure o The impact on crime, as a Home Office qualified professional in crime patterns and reduction I have a view. IF a study goes ahead this should be included. I have made this argument before in the online debates but sadly those with contrary views have stooped to personal attacks so I have ceased to contribute." What we are going to do with thousands of new cars ruining the environment and what to do when the entire Island becomes a retirement / holiday home How will the change affect the isle A realistic location and the impact of traffic. Subsidised ferries Factors which can not be recorded as statistics or planned for. Such as the overall feel of the island and the heritage of this island which I believe once gone you can never get back. PAGE 56 • • The conservation of the red squirrel population A referendum should be held in the island first to see of there's a genuine interest. These issues should not be decided by a handful of people. These are responses from those answering UNDECIDED to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CRIME and COMMUNITY It would bring so much revenue to a dissapearing island. Tourism and employment etc. Does any right thinking person consider the road infrastructure suitable for a constant stream of on bi directional traffic to and from the Isle of wight. Will ruin the island crime will be 100% and all the roughage will come and go as and wen they please once done we have had it no going back BIG NO Crime increase Effects on residence day to day life The Islanders who have lived here all of their lives should be listened to. Anyone who has moved here and wants a fixed link should consider living NOT ON AN ISLAND Employment Mainland crime statistics. Impact on state of roads on the island "What will happen to house prices if the island becomes more accessible? What will happen to the shipping channels during the construction phase?" Negative impacts to healthcare - we will lose the current services available on the island if it beace easier to travel to the msinland The effects of a bridge on hayling island Cost of link,who pays for link,expected cost to use link,reduction of ferry service if link operational Just subsidise or nationalise the ferries so they can be accessed by iow residents at a reasonable price Cost of using tunnel Prices of using the tunnel e.g cheap for IOW residents using the tunnel otherwise just another way off ripping people off and pointless building it. Finance The Island, is an island and that is part of its appeal - both for residents and tourists. The effects of a fixed link on this should be considered, along with various other factors. Thw price of the ferries! Additionally, if you really must put a tunnel in the few should be minimal. The environment should be a top priority too, please don't endanger the wildlife in the Solent. Effects of the proposal on the mainland exit points. Undesirables able to access the Island easier. Very large lorries etc. Coming to the Island. Tourists come because itbus an Island. It will encourage too many people to live here and will destroy Island life Crime Impact on every community within the island, not just the main towns or tourist destinations Policing, NHS, crime increase, and road infrastructure. PAGE 57 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ask the people who actually go to the mainland and back and not the stalwarts who say no to a fixed link just because they don't have/want to leave the Island. The possibility of a rail-only tunnel, combined with improved rail infrastructure on the Island is far better than a road option. Who's going to paying for the cost of this study. The cost should not be down to an already over stretched council. The price of using a fixed link maybe discounts for island residents? I'm 22 and am considering moving to the mainland as there just isn't the opportunities for younger people and they ferry fare is so expensive Crimes - people may use the tunnel as an advantage Cost No i would imagine a toll would apply in which case this should be kept as low as possible after the actual bridge has been paid for and therefore be used for the upkeep of same. "Cost to the tax payer More people = more resources- education/healthcare etc- wheres the extra coming fom?" The impact on island life. The peace and tranquility of the island and it's uniqueness would be altered by having a fixed link How will the island infrastructure cope with increased traffic. Possibly a rail alternative instead of a road to ease congestion. Cost to build. Cost to customers. Concerns re loss of services. Probably comes under the 'traffic management' or 'environment' options, but I would support tunnel only if it did not carry road traffic (e.g. private vehicles). I would support a rail link that has provision for carrying cycles & freight. Do island residents really want a fixed link The overall economy of the island needs to be considered. If property prices increase then people who work on the island will be further challenged. Parts of Cornwall are ghost towns of second homes, dont let it happen here. Not only how it affects people but the impact on crime, and residents, which no one seems to take into account, people chose to live here as an island so why does everyone want to change this. Affordability of housing (owner-occupier and rental) for existing IoW residents, particularly younger people trying to leave parents' home. Yes-the reality of the situation. This exercise may well prove a complete waste of resources.Much better to investigate the scope for putting the ferry services on a a financially transparent basis and improving them where possible.. Cost The wideness and condition of the roads on the island would not be able to cope with amount of extra traffic that is likely to be using the roads. Too easy for criminal people to come over. Don't want those sort of people here! There is constant debate on a fixed link but there never seems to be reference to the roads, etc, which would be required on the mainland to connect to the M27, I would expect considerable opposition if the entrance/exit to the tunnel was in the Gosport/Leeon-the-Solent area. Affordability No Crime rate increase. Ferry fare decrease to boost tourism would benefit the island. The loss of identity PAGE 58 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Road Infrastructure both sides of the Solent Need for 24 hour/7 days-a-week car-carrying ferry service for people who need to get on or off island at short notice. The Isle of Wight is a loving island not to be connected to the mainland and be the same as everyone else. It makes it enjoyable catching a ferry to the Isle of Wight, having a tunnel will make us blend in to every other place around uk. Surely Isle of Wight is a holiday and enjoying getting a ferry and enjoying a different, exciting island that is different from everyone else is better? Why is a fixed link required (what benefits could it bring & what negatives), & who will pay for it (to build & maintain it). Impact on IW crime Will the current road infrestructure be adequate for the expected increase of traffic caused by a tunnel. What effects would a tunnel have on crime rates. If wages on iow will finally come in line with mainland healthcare services Taking over the ferries look at a rail only tunnel that could join the existing rail network both on the island and the mainland. for example going from Ryde St Johns and coming out by Fratton Current investment by ferry companies Mentioned central funding, hope this won't be a tax on existing residents. Especially if it's on the only ones that work. Subsidisation of existing ferry routes like in other U.K. Islands "Cost to build fixed link Cost to use fixed link Impact on character of island Residents preference for fixed link or not Potential loss of ferry service Location of toll booths " Cost. How it will affect island residents & population on island as we can barely move through traffic now Love living on an island not connected by road! Huge worry about crime rising, children's safety etc, here if there was a fixed link The possibility of issuing the fixed link to also harness the renewable energy available, like underwater turbines the islands unique status as an island If all Islanders are for or against a fixed link. A minority for the fixed link are shouting very loud but most people don't seem to be in favour of it. Costs of crossing if there ever was a privately owned tunnel. Whether the fixed link will be privately owned and run and if there would be charges to use it and how much these charges would be and how that would affect the ferries and ferry fares. For me this is the issue at the TOP OF THE LIST! "Well it certainly needs to be more 'independant' than this awful survey! It's written is such a biased way. I'm actually undecided on whether a fixed link would be good for the island, but can I say (I'm not the only one) the ridiculous, un-professionalism, lies and vile mouths of the pro PAGE 59 • • • • • link team are making me actualy want them to fail! If they wish to be taken seriously then they need to behave in such a way." It should be truly independent and take into consideration the infrastructures required both on the island and the mainland to ensure that gridlock situations are avoided. Can a bridge be actually built, or a tunnel ?. Cost of the project, and cost of any toll, and an assessment of what type of business the island wants to be attracting and whether there are better ways of attracting sustainable, good quality businesses to the island - or whether those businesses and individuals are already here and just need assistance to grow. The fact that a fixed link may well put other transport options out of business. I.e. Hover craft, red jet, ferry to Yarmouth. At the moment multiple options are available to travel to the island which spreads the benefit and provides convenient links all over the north coast of the island. One fixed link could close these meaning longer journey times for various places to use the fixed link and an increase in traffic on the island itself. Cost of construction, cost of use (tolls). PAGE 60 These are responses from those answering YES to Do you believe that alternatives to the existing cross Solent transport should be investigated? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Employment Rising crime rates Whether the fixed link should be 'free at the point of use', run as a public-service for everyone, or by a 'for-profit organisation' paid for by those using it Possible increase in crime due to easier access. reasonable toll charges , cheaper rates for Islanders either ferry or toll charge for tunnel Using a toll, making it possible for Island residents to have accessabilty for health and education but a charge for tourism etc for the influx of visitors. Cost - in terms of implementation and also in terms of useage. Possible impact on crime. Employment opportunities opened by easy commute The cost of traveling to and from Island which is extremely expensive Improving ferry links, e.g. Cowes to Portsmouth Amount of additional traffic on the Island at peak times ie school holidays, festival etc to be controlled or a gridlock situation could very easily arise. Lack of opportunities for people living here Consideration into the impact of regeneration with more mainland people likely to want to reside here of travel was easier. Eg if you had the choice of living in Portsmouth compared to the island many would choose the IOW. Cost Cost to build (link / tunnel), financial sustainability, who will fund the project (Govt / PFI)? Cost of crossing link / tunnel compared to current ferry prices, Island road infrastructure to link with crossing. The Isle of Wight is a very low income area, possibly the worst in the south of the Uk. Paying exorbitant amounts to travel the short distances to Portsmouth and Southampton stop many Islanders from ever stepping off the Island. Prices are even worse coming from the mainland to the Island, it's no wonder that every Island Town is filled with Charity shops The ferry services have not listened to or considered the needs of Islanders and visitors. They continue to reduce services whilst increasing costs and treating service users with contempt. They are preventing the Island from economic viability, we have poor health, education services. The ferry services discourage new business or visitors to boost tourism. It's a barrier to prevent 2 way travel for work and encourage young people/ professionals to stay/work here. We need to wake up and find an alternative. It is very hard to number in importance as they are all important. Most patients are referred to mainland hospitals with cost of travel incl helicopter n ambulance. Tunnel more efficient in fact a half hour car journey via tunnel we could do away with stmarys n put money into better healthcare surgeries etc Subsidised travel for island residents so we don't feel we are being made to pay for it so someone else can profit. Simple..painless access by car or train to the mainland at all times, not just when ferry timetables limit this access, particularly for the elders to visit friends when in mainland hospitals. "Cost of crossing. Cost of any alternative." a sub sea surface link between hurst point and island incorporating tidal power station, on hurst side shallow tunnel to controls on mainland, on island side tunnel could extend to any point on the island before surfacing that point being void of complainers. PAGE 61 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The primary worry for the majority of retired people is that very soon all major surgery will carried out at either Portsmouth or Southampton hospitals. Speed and comfort to get to these hospitals is critical and obviously a fixed link would remove all the worry and inconvenience experienced at the present when forced to use ferry crossing. Toll to use tunnel What do the people who live on the IOW want? The collusion between the two ferry companies. The prices they charge are extortionate, particularly in the summer! It should be looked into also if crossing times can be reduced. Passenger Airport "all services up keep tunnel" If road and rail. Possible train links into Newport from the tunnel exit should be included in the transport portion of the study. The joy of being able to just go when one wants instead of planning a military campagn to leave the Island. Cost and 24 availability to people on and off the island Yes we need alternative travel as prices of the ferry are getting highier year every year Employment growth/opportunity The construction and maintainance of a fixed link should be financed by income from a toll formulated to create a profit, and it should be financed by IW council and government borrowing which would be quickly recouped from a toll. (Original study conclusion) Time Factors involved for those who make multiple crossings every year, and have to cope with non availability of ferries and event congestion and reliability delays. The cost to poor people of paying for the ferry and the limited scope for jobs The long term effect of doing nothing. 7/24 operation Cost The view of residents! Questions about crime rates i.e. Will they rise following a fixed link being put in place ? Employment prospects for island residents - business will find the island much more feasible - this will bring employment and MONEY to the island. Employment prospects for island residents "Infrastructure to cope with extra cars. Improvements to rail on island. Tram or light railway investigation. Bus service from mainland to island interchange linking with local buses/tramway/light railway." The short strip of solent should immediately cease being used as a ransom strip by duopoly/monopoly of ferry company/s causing severe financial hardship and prolonged stress as well as danger to health. This lifeline link must be allowed to happen for the sake of total freedom to access family and services within UK and beyond. The Island will not begin to recover and start regeneration for future generations until this happens!! The major redevelopment the whole island needs to enable people to live work and survive their and the access to the mainland needs to be a permanent solution not ferry crossings that are unreliable and hugely inflated prices Yes who is going to pay for this we are already bled dry by this iwc No Accessibility including entry and exit points. Would be good to consider a fixed road and rail link Make a link between Gosport and Portsmouth! We need to have the opportunity for our young people to travel to and across to bring in new ideas, changes, and generally bring the Island into the 21st century. Yes......the ferries hold us to ransom Town impact! As with East Cowes the ferry effect is debilitating to the town re traffic. PAGE 62 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I feel that most concerns are covered in question 8 Due to job shortages on the Island, many people need to work on the mainland to provide for their families. The cost alone is excessive (often thousands each year) and the parent is still required to travel from their home to the ferry port, catch a boat and then travel from the mainland port to their place of work which can often take hours each way this meaning that children may likely not see their commuting parent for days at a time as the parent leaves before waking time and arrives home after bed time. Location on the Island make certain it is INDEPENDENT Investigate a bridge which might be cheaper and could become an iconic symbol of the Isle of wight Why has the Solent been the most expensive stretch of water on this planet for so many years? The ferry prices need looking at because most islanders feel like they are prisoners Rail instead of road that way cars are transported on trains Yes hospital care on the mainland that cannot be got on the Island which is quite a lot We could limit the influx of traffic from the mainland by making them pay but Islanders have free travel. Without a Fixed Link this Island will continue to die along with the already failing Hospital, Police, Education, Care Services etc...etc...and will no longer be a Tourist destination due to exorbitant ferry prices and the time it takes to travel a few miles across the Solent. "The islands roads " Infrastructure needed to accommodate extra traffic. House prices. Improving the cost and frequency residents can get off the island. We need something cheaper, and available 24-7 "Improvement for islanders by having a 24-7 service Cost of travel" Cost for service usage and whether they'll be a discount for island residents. I'm not sure yet Cost very expensive to get on or off island im an oap i love living here but cant visit family or frields as often as i would like on mainland due to cost hopefully a fixed link would be cheaper and quicker The size of vehicles. Some lorries are too big for Island roads. Also coaches should be smaller - look at Jersey who have no issue with vehicle size being smaller thans mainland Britain. Bridge alternative A low price for usage of the fixed link similar to the toll on dartford. Train network link , infrastructure. Connecting trains from tunnel to major town , ryde , and even Newport I found possible would easy transport stress on roads . People would no doubt use the train to cross over the solent if not taking a car Costs associated with accessing the link, e.g toll fare Price thus giving the locals an alternative to the duopoly which currently exists Travel cost per journey through a tunnel compared to ferry cost. Cost to use, there would be no point if it's as expensive as a ferry anyway. Also, would it be 24/7? If not, again there's no point. Cost Crime Road Quality, Location, Traffic weight/size restrictions, cost of use. Costs of construction and cost of using the tunnel No Actually providing a service which is reasonably priced, reliable & runs 24-7 PAGE 63 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Demographics of Island - young people needing to leave for education and job opportunities. An ID check for people coming into the island as a way to control and minimise crime Lower prices for residents The beauty of the island should not be jeopardised Crime; employment; ongoing maintenance costs and responsibility; independence of study Cost of the tunnel and how much people will be charged to use it. No Islander residents cannot always afford the high prices the ferry company's charge to get off the island no cost Current lack of good business competition, business ethics and practice on the island. Lack of good and diverse public amenities incl shopping, education, recreation, and infrastructure to keep young island community educated, socially enriched, competitive and wanting to stay on the island and contribute to its success. House prices, increased desirability of living on the island economic benefits. Rail link vs road link location of a tunnel Housing Cost to use Cost for islanders. With a young family. Days out can be expensive and then you add the price of the car ferry and time constraints that go with it. Mainland access and effect The road system Yes, it is important to study how the tunnel exits into the Hampshire traffic network, both road and rail. There is an important effect into these networks that has to be managed properly for the tunnel to be a success. "Costs of building,using and who will finance it. Chaos and inconvenience over a long period involved in such a project - eg A3 Hindhead and more locally Asda " Pricing Cost of construction and potential cost of toll. #BlackLivesMatter I think 'social effects' cover quite a lot! Employment cost of travel would be an important factor Convenience to all off/on Island users. I have factored 8 to importance of Healthcare, owing to the deterioration of numerous services on the Island generally, with the need for mainland Medical appointments ever increasing. Selling the Island Hospital site for development, using sale proceeds towards a fixed link would centralise medical care for those in need at Southampton General, which is soon to be extended to provide even greater levels of care to patients, staff as well as those in training to become medical practitioners. Cost of use When can you start? The times that people cannot get off the Island - nights / Christmas Day. Distance family members are not only taken ill to suit the ferry times. Commuter tariffs and house prices Theift will be a higher concern if a fixed link is introduced PAGE 64 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • bridge Flexibility convenience reliability cost. Investigate the ferry Monopoly.,! The ferries are providing an unsustable link. Too expensive and not frequent enough. The monopoly has to be changed I think in this day and age it's silly that we don't have a bridge or a tunnel especially when there is talk of merging councils. The youth are forced to leave the island for education and not many of them return as there are no job prospects. The cost of ferry are too high which effects tourism and as a result we can see many small businesses closed on the island. Alternative bridge options! Possible tidal power barrier & bridge! Could provide cheap power for the island! financial impact on residents "Upgrade of the road system in the immediate vicinity of the fixed link at both ends enabling good access to the mainland motorway system. Consider the bridge option also if this might be more cost effective. Social changes would be likely. There is a risk of greater crime, busier roads, people living on the island and working on the mainland, spending money on the mainland rather than on the island but economically and in terms of accessibility and saving the island from what currently presents as economic and social decline are great. If we carry on as we are the in another ten years the island will have very few young people, be a glorified gated community for the retired an economically poor for the remaining people of working age. Minimal work opportunities at the current." Cost of study and of building Ferry prices Job prospects for both islanders and mainlanders. No let's build this otherwise the island will die Possibility of a bridge instead of a tunnel. Cost of using the fixed link. Immigration control. Location of the tunnel. "Placement Opening times of tolled/manned" We need to think of future needs of the younger generation. Of Jobs and prices of transport to get to jobs and a better living standard for the Island. Placement of fixed link? Direct raillink. Convenients Cost of using tunnel. Number of lanes. Danger to red squirrels. Keeping the isnad as an island still, so if a bridge is put in makeong sure to keep the identity of an island. Cost/toll. Volume of traffic Cost of the build, the cost of using it daily as it needs a fixed price per vehicle per trip and to be owned by the government or a a council body A bridge Economics Employment opportunities would be improved "An approach to analysis within the report could be to demonstrate a 'triple win' for the island. Win on better health outcomes for people (via better links and arrangements with Southampton and Portsmouth hospitals - as per the plans of the new 'Solent Alliance' and new Solent 'Sustainability and Transformation Plan' (STP). Win on business outcomes/prosperity for the island economy and thus support the IW council improve it's financial position (more money from business taxes and tourism) PAGE 65 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Win on education outcomes - by erradicating a 'deprivation of aspiration' in island children/teenagers. Supporting/telling them they have every right to go to Cambridge Uni if they study hard. Supporting the IW college to apply for links to the Uni of Southampton or Portsmouth to confer degrees. Better transport links would encourage higher educational professionals (like myself) to be part of a growing higher educational scene on the island. " The part of the mainland the fixed link will start Yeah only residents born here or have been here for 30 years are entitled to a vote .. .. tunnel should be able to fully quuantine in case of natural disaster example the worst thing that can happen . As stupid as it sounds zombie apocalypse yeah sounds stupid but prepare for the worst and hope for the best No Funding options including potential use charges Security and cost to use tunnel verses cost to use ferry Cost N/A Cost to Islanders to finance it, cost to Islanders to use it (ie will it be worth all the negative effects). Would allow visits to mainland hospitals to be a lot more stress free Impact on house prices and its potential negative effects on residents. No Charging for use i.e. A Toll Location No "Employment " The cost of using a fixed link should be reasonable and controlled. on the basis that social effects includes crime... otherwise the possible increased crime problem should be included.. it is difficult above to put in a specific order :( prople who do not live on the island but have elderly/ill relatives on the island. Mental health is a huge problem and loneliness is a big contributing factor. Meaning people will be in care home sooner costing more in social care. Cost for relatives to visit me on the island are extortionate and difficult. From where on the Isle of Wight to where on the mainland should definately be considered. Link should run from Southampton to Cowes Cost should be less than ferry Emergency situations where you need to cross the Solent and can't due to limited sailings or full sailings. Standard of living Housing House prices / demand Maybe a discount for Islanders when using the tunnel. Price, the reason why people are sick of the ferries having a stranglehold on the island, residents not being able to leave the island or have visitors in summer Cost for crossing Housing costs, crime, fares, cost Accessibility to island or mainland when weather is bad can be highly difficult so another form of travel to the island is definitely needed to be highly considered The work should be by IOW residents and if it were to be a toll, the money raised should be kept and invested into the IOW. Public consultation PAGE 66 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The future of what appears to be a failing economy, the worry for health availability, the future for the young. Cost to the user The voice of the Island residents, and the opportunity to have a valid referendum on the subject of other alternatives for travelling to the mainland. Finanancial cost of building and what cost to users. Unemployed should not get a right to choose. Any idiot that says 'it no longer will be an island' should also be discredited as being too dumb and simple minded to also have a say. Cost No Loss of "island" identity Subsidised travel for Islanders Toll fees not to rise annually with inflation like the Severn bridges. Toll fees should include a small tax for non island residents. Convenience. Having to wait around or being stuck either side due to fog or wind is ridiculous in this day and age. It will make island residents life easier, we will safe time, and we will be able to travel at any time without any limited time (so we can book flights or events at any event time...). So we won't have to wait for a ferry time which is very expensive as well... Criminals Discount rate for separate road for tunnel traffic to easy congestion on the everyday running on the island. Jobs for islanders, allowing them to live here but work more easily on mainland. Not that I can think of The economy of the island is first and foremost. It cannot progress without this link (or a serious overhaul of the ferries) and will only retrograde. So we can leave the island without being charged so much. Should be allowed to return more than number allowed over The future of the children being able to commute easily for work off the island, cheaper and more efficient costs for business deliveries both ways, cheaper costs for holiday makers to consider the island as a great destination. The impact it will have on the factors involved in the previous question. It's too expensive to travel to main land! !! Upgrading of main (i.e. gas , water, electricity, media, etc)services being utilised into project to future proof the island Consider just a rail link with footpaths and cycleways provided. Public owned ferry. correct provision of health and education services. We desperately need it Other fixed link examples between islands and mainland i.e. France and Ile de Ré Flexibility Alot of residents and family of residents are unable to see each other as much as possible due to high costs of the ferrys. Also a fixed route would make it easier to work on the mainland as ferries are expensive and not always running at times needed for work patterns. Tourism would get a boost aswell. how independent is independent(most people have some form of vested interest). Cheaper link charges for those living on the island Location of the fixed link. Financial cost benefit analysis for residents The outrageous financial implications of living on the island and the ferry prices! Crime and Welfare How will it affect the unemployed? PAGE 67 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • See below Question 8 is a bit unclear to me. No The price of all types of cross-solent travel. Location of tunnel we don't need one ! sort the ferries out. NO fixed Link Current extremely high fees for the Solent crossing and ways to lower them for the Island's residents Prices of use for the fixed link Price, must be affordable and sustainable. Wider economic benefits to the south coast Opportunity for the young and family support ftom the mainland for the elderly Would the road infrastructure on the Island be able to cope should a road link be chosen? Positive for island Cost House prices, salaries, opportunities for activities & sports We can consider before the fixed link, which will take a lot of money, try to regulate ferry price and maintain it to a normalized (between competitors) and fair level for at least the residents in the island Policing The island's roads and car parks could not cope with the massive influx of vehicles Newport, Ryde and Sandown-Lake-Shanklin would need by-passes. The price of the ferrys is too expensive meaning a tunnel would be quicker and cheaper Cost to residents to leave the island compared to current ferry prices A fixed link would greatly improve business and tourism on the island which is needed as the island is dying and is being left behind by the mainland No The younger generation. Not that I can think of "Job Loss for ferry workers Endanger red squirrels" "Toll charges for island and mainland users. Possible investment from ferry companies." Savings on money, due to not ferry costs! There would be a major increase in employment opportunities if we had a fixed link. It would enable people to grow there careers and develop which at the moment the island is lacking. Price of crossing The costs and limitations to Island residents when returning to the island Cost to travellers using the fixed link vs current ferry costs How many ways will it encourage younger people to stay on the Island The financial benefits to residents who regularly cross to the mainland as ferry travel is so extortionate! Rail + Road connection, Pricing, Costs, Build Schedule, Creation of local jobs during construction, External investment opportunities. No Yes, scrap the fixed link idea it's ridiculous. The amount of housing and people on the island should stay the same to keep it looking like it does, as that will keep our tourism up Cost of toll and a drive through tunnel "Cost Accidents PAGE 68 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Water pressure " Employment is a major concern on the Island, especially for the young people just starting out. Flexibility of a fixed link that will be much cheaper than a ferry crossing will give residents more chance of work on the mainland whilst still residing on the Island. The cost of islanders travelling to the mainland That you get everyone's opinion. I think a link for a train would best so the boats can still be used for cars and the island won't be over loaded with traffic. No.... cost of ferries extortionate that's killing the island in total includes everything Ferry prices are far to high. Some of the above factors are of equal importance, so it was very difficult to put them into and accurate order. Costings Crime a rail link Prospects for redevelopment, especially on the east of the Island. Toll cost. Varying the toll cost at different times of the day could be used to help with traffic management. Public ownership of whatever link is in place (ferry or fixed link) and the income that could generate of the IOW Grants to get on with it quickly. Low cost frequent transport essential No others Future Growth "House prices Population " "Cost of implementation from either public and private sector. How much the toll price would be." Cost Easy access to work for the up and coming generation Cost None Cost to end user. Any alternative must be a fair price considering the current rates of ferry services Future technology & sustainability. The Isle of Wight has a unique geographical location and we should be embracing this by looking at ways to make our island more attractive to working age people who would then wish to settle here. Examples such as St. Louis in USA who turned themselves into a 'giga city' in order to bring start ups to the post industrial city and revitalise it. All alternatives including cheaper ferries should be considered to improve links between island and mainland. I used to live on the island and commute but it became too hard. Impact on peoples wages and jobs Affordability for residents with the current ferry system and how that limits career opportunity. Wider benefits of closer working with larger public services to improve standards, health, education, security etc Island roads ! Inward investment from central government The cost of the ferry is prohibitive to both Islanders and tourists. If Wightlink and Red Funnel are unable to provide a service at a cost that is beneficial to the Island then an alternative should be considered. Expence of ferry crossing PAGE 69 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Delays, postponements, time spent on ferries and weather are factors for a fixed link rather than expensive ferries. Specifically the development of Isle of Wight businesses having better opportunities. Fees for use Mental effect on the young people on the island being less isolated and more aware of the world outside in terms of education, career and social factors. NationLisation of ferry We're are an Island and why can't we be like Gurney or Jersey? Cheaper ferry costs more visitors. Where the tunnel connects to the roads to minimise congestion. Rail like to be included not just vehicle Definitely the hugely expensive monopoly the ferry company's namely Wightlink have on us islanders, it adds another £100 to a holiday and makes regular trips off the island extremely hard for most and for people like me on the breadline impossible! A fixed link would make life more educational for my kids as we would not be confined to this rock so much! Rough ticket prices Cost! The extortionate cost of the ferries N/A. This shouldn't be looking into a Fixed Link, why isn't the time spent instead asking the Government to regulate the ferry service and bring it under Governmenr control to stop the high prices and lack of service??? Yeah give us a fixed link and we will have more tourists and have a more sustainable future for the island for many years the council has taken away from the island now it's time to give something back Lack of opportunities for young people. Cost to islanders, if the link provides no significant reduction in fares across the solent the concept is pointless. Security of Islanders. Economic benefits N/a Look at how bridges and tunnels have effected Norway and Wales the 7 sisters bridge has more than paid for itself now not only will it be a great way of commuting and cheaper for common travellers but it will make money in the long term. The people that oppose the bridge are older generations and the island needs to think of its future generations aswell and look to the future. Keeping the cost very low. Virtually nill. When you need to get to the mainland fast. Effect of fixed link of keeping younger population on island. Cost of use Cost Maybe it could be built for free in exchange for giving up the tolls for a period of time as has been the case with some European projects I believe The island cannot take any more vehicles The positive effects for people not being able to afford the ferry and the possibility of cheaper imports for business The impact on day to day life of island residents due to a possible drastic increase in people. Relations living on the mainland and the fact that in an emergency you have to allow an awfully long time before you can leave the Island. Eg getting a booking, costs etc Cost of building and using and effects upon the ferries. Security PAGE 70 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Appropriate locations for the end points of the link - i.e. don't link it to Yarmouth, Totland or somewhere equally annoying Cost Cost of use Return on investment, in terms of how much growth in the local economy would be generated overall by investing in such an infrastructure product "Financial cost to the Isle of Wight " Mainland opinion Although it would encourage business, it needs to encourage the right kind of business NO The Ferrys are far to expensive and prices keep going up. With a tunnel it will ring more people and businesses to the Isle of Wight which it needs What effect on property prices and impact on crime on the island. Price! "Would it actually be amy cheaper than the the ferry ? The impact on the jobs of those working for the ferry company " Island residents should have a discount card to use the tunnel Crime? "Public transport links through the tunnel, considering that not everyone who may want to use it has access to a private car. I'd suggest running a bus or tram route connecting, say, Newport bus station to Southampton Central train station via Southampton City centre. This link should ideally depart each end of the route no more than every 15 minutes. I don't really mind how long this journey would take; it's more important to me that it is affordable, frequent, reliable and the transport modes running it are clean, modern and operated by friendly drivers/management. Perhaps the roadway through the tunnel could have a segregated bus/tram lane in each direction which would allow said buses/trams to bypass heavy traffic and encourage residents along the route to use said public transport services between the two urban centres. In turn, this could reduce air pollution in the tunnel as there would be fewer vehicles spewing exhaust fumes at any given time." Motor or train comparison Cost Fair and reasonable prices to get across/use. None Cost of build, cost to run, cost to use. Business plan An IoW act to recognise the additional cost and give special status to the island. Island saftey and what unwanted touble that would more access to the island and how it would be prevented No end the monopolization of ferry company's "Yes the crime rate. " The types of people it will attract to live on the IOW - demographics of the IOW are significantly shifted to older generations therefore alongside the tunnel efforts should be made to make the IOW more youth friendly which of course would be vital to retain youths on the island for employment and economic growth Cost Travelling to hospital on the mainland as ours won't do much for kids with disabilities The ferry companies treat the island as it's a prison once on the island it to expensive to leave PAGE 71 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Where on the island it should be built. "The ferry companies have spiralled the fares out of control. Weather conditions halt travel. penalised for missing a ferry" ... The price More job opportunities, able to access all healthcare with out relying on helicopters and ferries! More opportunities for children Find what the people want Care of people and families who need treatment off the island and in emergency situations as at present both ferry companies cause added distress rather than help or compassion! Rail link only, possible electrification problem. Cost and the ownership of the tunnel. Nope very good quality cctv and tunnel checks. once there is a fixed link there will be a massive increase in surge crime. Islanders are not used to the security needs of the mainland in order to protect their property and possessions. an increased police presence would need to be funded for at least the first two years. another question missing is where will the tunnel end on the mainland? an option in the past was Gosport. having worked in Gosport for many years, this would just make a very bad road system totally gridlocked Get it done Cost as a student will be easier to get home in emergencies concessions for residents use Cost of travel - needs to be much less than current ferry prices. Lots of people are concerned about crime coming through the tunnel, so some sort of security is required, whether cameras or physical checks. The location of tunnel to IW/mainland. I have concerns of traffic congestion on both sides which already have significant traffic issues. It makes logistic sense Cost of toll Listening to the people wishes,and not for profit. House prices I am self employed and would have far more opportunity for work contracts on the mainland. I would be able to travel freely, without the need to pre-book, or find myself trapped on the island during peak season when ferries are fully booked. There would be more work opportunity for unempoyed islanders who could commute daily to work affordably and easily . How many of the above discourage people from moving here, staying here and visiting. Costs and we can come and go as we please with a fixed link What will happen to the Island if we don't have better and more affordable communication links. Some people like myself have serious medical conditions which can not be treated on the island and in an emergency it takes a long time to get off the island to hospital it also cost alot of money using boats all the time for routine appointments especially when you have to take your car as they don't give any discount for it. Not necessarily None Cost / pressure on IOW council Pricing Mainlanders "stealing" islanders jobs. Price to use tunnel? PAGE 72 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Cost of access/use per trip vs current cross-Solent costs Who would pay to build a fixed link; likely tolls The fact the island economic situation deprived comparable to those areas on the other side of the water such as Southampton, new forest, etc Options for toll payment to recover costs My concern is there would be too much traffic for Island roads to cope with. There would have to be some kind of control on numbers & a toll of some sort. Cost of crossing, time of crossing compared to the big ferry companies The views of younger people should be prioritised as they effect the future of the island more. Crime Whether people actually want it or not "Rail links on the island should be improved Better public transport A rail tunnel would reduce traffic congestion " cost for how much it will cost to travwl on fixed link. they need to build one and move forward. the ferry compainies hold iow residents *hostage* with the prices they charge and incresd in the summer!! Cost of travel for passengers "Security for safety 24 hr surveillance on camera etc. The condition of the roads on the island and the safety of the roads i.e. Speed limits etc should be more focused on with mainland and island drivers" Yes making the fixed like a fare prices to all say £5 day return £10 any day return. Integrating transport links (trains/buses). Pricing, and how much people will be willing to pay Possibly of a bridge. construction cost and how it shall be funded. Potential usage cost The improvement in flow of labour both to and from the Island. Price both to build and to use the link Also a one off one on as used in car parks when they are full to limit the number of vehicles in island at any one time with the exception of residence vehicles No The main one. WE NEED IT. Time scales and funding. Sustainable business model and continuity to not negatively impacting island residents Could the ferry's and a fixed link both be sustainable like the Channel? Culinary identity of island status That it would bring a much needed economic boost for the island and prosper for future generations cost of travel Security. Will there be a way to stop grey squirrels entering the tunnel? CCTV? Aesthetics - whatever solution is, it should blend well with existing surroundings and also not force anyone out of their homes. Need to move with the times, it's ok for retired but jobs for the new generation's means leaving the island. Ferries to expensive and not reliable. You have looked at the most important things, but it is difficult to prioritise these. Cheaper ferries, they are so expensive. They need something else to challenge them and make them drop their prices. Cost Where the link goes to and from island to mainland PAGE 73 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Yes the isle of wight police is part of Hampshire and would benifet the extra help and response of the Hampshire constabulary should we have a major incident on the Island and vice versa that goes for all types of emergencies crossing costs, should there be a mixed crossing half bridge half tunnel. How much I want to just drive to and from the mainland for free! Comparative costs to use fixed link as opposed to the astronomical cost of the ferries The landmass that will be required for entry and exit points, and maintenance of roads. The island needs to be prepared for the influx of people. I don't think it is at the moment. Perhaps a customs area To have a islandwide poll or vote Even with a fixed link people make still want to use the ferry service's, so the ridiculous cost of these really needs to be looked RF and WL have a monoply and it is not fair on the island people. ferry prices How it will affect NHS services on the island, with transport and whether it will attract more health professionals to the island. Total independance to any personnel with business/financial/official/masonic connections to IOW. The sooner the better in my opinion This Island needs investment and Islanders need to be encouraged to be more independant and more educated and not apprehensive to leave the Island Location. Costs. Price to use. Location If a fixed link doesn't happen, then the prices of the current boats needs to be slashed. I wish to study further, but can't afford the boat prices!! Price to travel via fixed link Price of crossing Cost of travel currently being too expensive. Cost if there is going to be a price for going throw the tunnel the it needs to be al low price for all that live on the iow and a separate price for fasters. No The location of the tunnel entrance and exit will have a major impact on both the costs and user viability. For example, a Yarmouth resident is unlikely to travel to Ryde/Seaview and then drive Portsmouth if all they want to do is get to Lymington. A central solution Cowes/Newport to Calshot might be an option. I am for a fixed link but agree gosport has the most congested traffic already so an alternative location would be preferred I think that the development of the tunnel should be carried out causing the least effect on the environment as possible. Security at both ends of tunnel No, just get on and build it! The police force on the isle of Wight should reflect the change to the island with a fixed link for example crime rate and public safety. Also bus services and the train line should be improved to reflect the change it would bring to the island. "A fixed link would increase traffic significantly so there would need to be a massive improvement to the roads on the island. Either that or some sort of limit/cap to the amount of traffic/visitors that can visit at one time. PAGE 74 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Perhaps also a fixed link using a mix of public transport i.e. Train/tram & car access should be considered. Would solve the problem of traffic congestion if visitors had a link thru from Southampton/Portsmouth train stations onto the island!." Cheaper fees for island residents The corruption and the monopolisation of the ferry services . Cost to build and maintain and impact on the iow The price to use the tunnel must be less affordable. No That profits after the cost of the tunnel has been recovered are put back into the iow The benefit of nationalising the ferries to lower the cost of travel Passenger only? Worried about extra traffic The unsustainable nature of education, health care and business development on the Isle of Wight without a fixed link Cost of current services Yes get with current times no laid back moaners get real "The cost To those that use it. Flexi tickets etc " Price No Impact on existing road networks and safety, potential benefits to health and social care services, possible toll costs and residents rates Cost to users Employment No fixed link. Public owNed ferry with reasonable prices for Islanders. Cost to the consumer to use, compared to ferry prices. A bridge and not just a tunnel more economic to have a tunnel than having the ferrys which cost a lot of money, and produce greenhouse gases Long term impact of projected cost of ferry price rises based on their increases of the last 5 years on residents, tourists and business transporting to and from the island. Costs: to build and to use Better ferry prices Cost and Accessibility I.e travelling anytime day or night. Only achievable via a fixed link Ferry cost's even with a fixed link "Price of crossing " The boat is what makes the island special Employment issues and the current wage / salary difference to that of the mainland. For instance, why work on the island for x amount when you can take the tunnel each day and achieve a greater salary for doing the same job (potentially). The likely knock on factors to businesses and tourism on the island must be considered. The fixed link would hopefully see islanders salaries increasing and become more in touch with the mainland. Sorting out the flow of traffic around coppins bridge. Possible remove lights to allow for more traffic, No Cost of ferry travel and consideration of the amount of residents who already work on the mainland. Price of the tunnel to cross No The positives and negative effects of the town the link is placed within That we don't have trains here on island to link a system too PAGE 75 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A sensible priced toll to travel across the link would be acceptable. But not at WIGHTLINK prices! You need a bridge not a tunnel The restrictions ferry crossing times cause, in a modern day! Extremely expensive to visit family friends and hospital visits. Pricing Cost and availability of ferries, and effective monopoly held by ferry companies. Potential increased cost of local housing. "Bridge? Charges?" "Getting rid of wightlink. So expensive " Price of use for islanders. That people choose to live on the Island because it is an Island! If you fix it to the mainland it will lose that identity and those residents who love it for that reason, including Directors of companies who employ other Island residents who may chose to relocate therefore losing Island employment. ( my personal feeling if plans go ahead, I would move) The fact that we are an island, damage to the coast and it being unsightly No cost of use Loss of earnings for people commuting to the mainland from the Isle of Wight Collaboration between ferry operators to keep prices high. Ability of younger generation to get more chances to work on the mainland due to lack of jobs on the island Cost Make it happen Ferry prices Potential changes to insurance costs, house prices and cost of living. I'm from the island. It is clearly dying. It needs a bridge or tunnel to give it a chance to survive. "The cost of using the fixed link at each crossing. " Price Location options more info on safety The absolutely ridiculous prices charged by Isle of Wigth ferry companies! Opportunities for islanders would increase massively That rating system is awful on the above question. Not a good way to collect acurate data. Overpriced ferry unemployment rate on the Isle of Wight The Island needs modernising desperately the fixed link would make that a better future for all Shipping in the Solent! Costs for Island residents. How efficient this will be No Cost Crime - funding - charges Possible cost to passengers who use it. PAGE 76 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • How crime will be managed if a link was introdiced. What measures can be put in place to deter people targeting the island The length of time it takes to travel from an island town like Newport or even Ventnor to a mainline train terminus (Southampton Central, Portsmouth Harbour) connecting to London and cross country routes; Consider how this much this could be drastically reduced. The cost and who is paying for it the improvement of job opportunities for educated young people who live on the Island byt currently have to move away to find work and the benefit that should bring to the Island in every aspect. "Maintaining the aesthetics of the island i.e. A hidden link/tunnel is preferable but it must be in keeping. It must be a lot cheaper to cross than the ferries are. The cost of crossing will be a huge factor as to whether it is worth it or not. If it's too expensive, it will make no difference what so ever. " Having a fixed link will bring so many more opportunities to everyone living on the island from better work opportunities to children being able to reach for the stars in sporting opportunities instead of having to stop what they love because it becomes to expensive and unaccessable. Improved job prospects on mainland It shouldn't be so expensive for islanders to get off the island. We aren't in Alcatraz! Ferries are much more difficult for disabled people than tunnels "Cost to use tunnels " Crime and cost If a fixed link is not a feasible solution, then better and more affordable ferrys should be considered. The charge to use the tunnel The failure of many businesses on the island due to lack of money now coming into the economy. Work needs to be provided to combat the high levels of unemployment on the island and to bring in a new stream of revenue to a regenerated tourist trade. That the cost to use it will not be extortionate. Ferry prices are far too high. No Employment Whether this would increase the liklihood of island homes being bought by non-residents Current road infrastructure on the Island is not good enough to support increased traffic. Non native wildlife (grey squirrels) . Yes really. Cost to cross a Bridge Consider what will happen to the island over the coming years if we don't have a fixed link(it will die) Various route to mainland, Also entrance to tunnel, it could be mid island /south, taking traffic away from hot spots...equally avoid hot spots on mainland...creative thinking to get positive response ! Cost Quality of life Employment - the fixed link could make it possible for many more people to be in work in urban areas such as Portsmouth and Southampton which would take pressure off mental health services and the strain that unemployment places on this! Making it happen quickly, surely there are enough good worldwide tunnel examples to bring this knowledge to the table Cost. This is more important than any of the categories above and should have been included. PAGE 77 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • No just build a tunnel!! Dispensation for island residence A cheaper way to travel for those that come and go regularly and not for holidays. The cost of the ferrys are too much There are a lot of disabled children on the island having to take whole days off school to spend most the day travelling for a 5/10minute appointment in Southampton or Portsmouth. This is a huge strain for families as the hospital here is equipt for the services needed. A tunnel would be so much easier the inaccessibility of the island in unsocial hours, adverse weather and the cost at busy periods. Sitting at the docks for hours on end is not a constructive use of people's/businesses time. The hourly cost must be huge. Must be fully independent The predictions for the future of the economy on the island if we don't Make it actually happen stop teasing all the time N/A Cost to islanders/how much it will cost to use the fixed link The amount of housing they are building, with a hospital that is unable to currently cope!!! Pricing and organisation structures of the ferry companies. Prices seem to go up all the time and no better service. N/A Housing, Specifically Islanders commuting for work Life opportunities job opportunities not privately owned A limited flow each way so the Island cannot be over come with too much traffic.The costs per journey and reduced costs for Island residents Length of time to build and expenses YES, THE COST OF TRAVELLING ON A FIXED LINK FOR US ISLANDERS How it would be a boost to island life I think just a rail link to be the most beneficial. bridge The toll fee Cutting away from greedy cunts like those who run the ferry companies (badly). All important but not allowed to use same rate ing twice Cost, pollution etc. Crippling effects of massively overpriced ferry services causing a huge decline in all industry on the island The impact on local residents Likely cost to user per journey Finance Public transport costs on the island and services to rural areas Trade Young people leaving their homes and families for better prospects the other side. Fixed link will bring more investment, more tourism, thus creating more jobs and rebuild the economy. PRICE No The image and to how unique the island is. A fixed link will ruine it. Cost This could still be a toll service to help fund the project and partly 'protect' the island but this would still be vastly cheaper and better than the current travel options. Saftey of tunnel should be inportant, i only gave a 1 cause thats all that was left. How employment will affect those working for ferry companies PAGE 78 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Cost Nope Economic change and availability of emergency service resources of the island for example Should be financed independently Where on the mainland is linked to the Island No price to use The more options and opportunities for islanders without being held hostage to the boat fares which are ridiculous The toll on the fixed link should be high enough to recoup the money in 10 years or so and should be reduced for island residents Brexit can have very positive inpact on IOW with "Fixed Link", without it, Brexit will make it even worce... Easy access,low tariffs, 24 hour 360 day per year service Infrastructure in the island. I.e. Transport Job opportunities One possbility that should be considered is using a barrage/dam across the Solent, instead of a tunnel. The advantage of this would be that a barrage/dam with turbines in it could generate a lot of green energy (tidal power). It gives the government an excuse to use those sums that could have paid for the spare rooms or the benefits for the disabled rather than allocate the money appropriately when the tunnel will have paid for itself and if fares to cross will be kept at a sensible rate and will a tunnel be run by a private company or the state Simply the ease of getting on and off the Island - as someone who is currently seriously ill and not able to schedule crossing, a tunnel would solve all problems It will literally save the island for future generations it's too late for me to bring my company back but not for future businesses Freedom Assess effects of higher ferry costs to residents and visitors, business and affects on young people seeking employment The prosperity of the Island and our younger generation Control of housing prices for the locals Not that I can think of No 11- Availability of mainland jobs for islanders Crime Rate Employment opportunities The impact that people born on the isle of wight that have to leave for work and then have children .The cost of coming back to see relatives or visa versa. Yes why Red funnel and Wightlink have been allowed to run such a diabolical service at a premium price for so long and which has consequently led to demands for a fixed link. "Tourism is very important to the island and ferry prices push the average price of a family coming to visit the island by $100 low season and more high season which has had a big effect on the number chosing to come over the cheaper option of staying on the mainland which is having a detrimental effect on the islands economy. Also businesses have to absorb the extra cost of transport and the time restrictions in doing business because of the ferry crossings which makes them struggle in today's competitive environment. I believe that eventually business investment in the island will dry up because of the above which will mean that young families will need to move off the island to chase the opportunities of career and education unless some sort fixed link can be established affording the islands residence and businesses choice and flexibility of transport and the opportunity this could bring. PAGE 79 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • " It's use and tolls. No Being able to come and go as you please, not being caught for speeding trying to catch a ferry. And a set pricing if a toll, realistic prices. Costs and sources of funding No Cost! The ability to purchase goods that can be sent to the Island As a tax payer and employee of the NHS I am getting increasingly concerned about the Island, daily struggles to recruit professionals to work in the hospital, more and more houses being built but with a fast dying economy, I love the fact this is a secluded Island but I'm also fully aware that if something isn't fine soon then we will fall into a state of disrepair. The ferries cannot be relied on, multiple cancellations throughout each day or overcrowding to the point you must travel seated on the floor, Unexceptable in these days. I'm also very offended by the comment 'if you don't like it move away' I have supported this island all my life one way or another which not only entitles me to a valid opinion, but if I were to move away then that's another tax payer less to support the Island. No. My father who passed away 2 years ago lived on the IOW & whilst he was in his last few weeks of life we found it frustratingly difficult to get across to the island when we needed to and the costs were astronomical paying over £500 for 4 round trips... losing money because we did not use our return ticket in the allotted time and being charged extra if we changed our return trip. Employment. Location. Alternatives such as bridge. Island is dying, no jobs here so have to go to mainland. Children need to know they can get a job at end of education.... The cost to the IOW Council and taxpayers During build make sure not to interfere with the sailing. Economic case for both ends of the tunnel At present time is wasted, It takes well over an hour to travel a few miles across the Solent by car (Includes waiting & loading times), Unjustified high fares particularly for residents working on mainland. Inconvenient, Problems Arise when emergency travel is needed. Emergency services face long delays. Having to make prior bookings. In this modern age present facilities are archaic. A tunnel would make it easier for young people to seek a wider range of employment opportunities. A tunnel or fixed link would noy be dependant on weather vageries. easy access to the island A new road layout from M27 needs serious consideration, to access the tunnel, as the present road, would not be suitable as present, Urgency Having just moved to the mainland from island, some regulation of road users as they travel on island as the roads wouldn't cope Costs - operating and capital Cost of toll as it would need to be an affordable alternative to the extortionate ferries. Tourism potential not just for the Island but Gosport too. "Construction costs vs environmental impact. Geology. Backup if tunnel had a disaster scenario." Oligopolistic ferry market. Pricing of fixed link Costs of study and who pays for it. The impact on the mainland entry point of the tunnel or fixed link PAGE 80 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Possible toll fee to pay for repairs and the up-keep of the road tunnel. The unique biodiversity of the island is protected by the stretch of water between us and the mainland. A fixed link would inevitably threaten the future of the red squirrel and the Glanville Fritillary, to name just two, as well as enabling the ingress of predators currently not present. Thought also needs to be given to the effect on house prices; they are unaffordable for locals as it is. Attach us to the mainland and we risk prices and rents soaring. Would we simply become another suburb of Southampton? And what about traffic? How will it be funded such as a toll or congestion charge Current monopoly of ferry companies Consider a train only tunnel, which gives the full benefits of commuting, business and tourism, but without a major increase in cars For a start a set of questions which were not skewed by the outcome you want would help. Have you considered a bridge as opposed to a tunnel? cost. Ongoing costs to islanders Toll cost Cost! A bridge should be an alternative option too. Cheaper for island residents. We HAVE to get off the island for work/meetings/leisure, etc so it should be cheaper for us to travel. It would further work opportunities which would lessen benefit claims, ease social housing, cancer and other terminally ill patients attend specialist hospital without distress. The above is nonsensical, many aspects are equally important Effects on unemployment of IoW residents who will be more able to apply for mainlandbased jobs Bridge?? Potential cost to user Looking at the ferry pricing structure. Costs The island needs a road tunnel or Bridge in order to prosper Really don't see the need to rank these questions. It could be argued they're of equal importance or otherwise. What's required is a cost benefit analysis. How much will the survey cost? Who will pay for it? Location Housing The previous questions don't really make sense. However, I think the ease of family trips from the Island to visit family, entertainment etc should be thought about. Tolls Views of those living on mainland side of any link Forcing the young population to move off the island (like myself) but not being able to afford to come back and see our families who have dead end jobs. "Bias from pseudo IW residents " "crime impact , and ease of criminals to get to the island also the ease of romany types and travellers to get to the island" "Location relative to existing infrastructure. Likely toll charges. Source of construction funding." Convenience of travel for IOW residents and not being held to ransom by the ferry companies. PAGE 81 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Would building a tunnel have any significant knock on effect to the amount that the Ferry Companies would be likely to invest in their services? Better regulation of the ferry companies,options for public ownership of the ferry companies. Cultural effects of a fixed link, knock on effect to ferry provision if fixed link went ahead( will there still be ferries or will the link become a monopoly) A bridge would be less costly surely? On the Yarmouth side Possible reduction in local unemployment Yes I think the idea needs a lot of consideration, islanders may be in favour of the idea, however we need to remember that we are only one side of the tunnel/link, the other end of the tunnel need to be fully supportive of the idea. "The big one missed from this list is Employment and Wages. This is the main factor which is going to carry favour amongst the younger generation. I believe a fixed link will bring far more investment, new business' and inevitably, higher wages. Without a fixed link we have a failing and stagnant job market which leads to one of the highest rates of unemployment in the country. We can do so much better and I believe a tunnel is the only way forward. " The final decision should be based on facts important to the island not on typical statements of the like of "don't want more people here", as islanders tend to think "The problem is the ferries. If these were sorted there would be no discussion about a fixed link. Whatever the difficulties fixing the ferries is a much cheaper and much quicker process. " We are denied freedom of movement which is a right for UK citizens Option for rail people who travel to the mainland for work, hospital appointments, costs of transporting goods to and from the mainland The last question was impossible to rate accurately as it's not clear. Spent most of the time trying not to double up on numbers. So what's really important is tourism business and opportunity for the Islands youth. Other factors are not relevant at this stage. You are trying to over complicate things. There should be a timescale for reasonable repayment and maximum profit on PFI basis before nationalisation Future ferry charges, tunnel toll charges, time wasted waiting for ferries/ferries delayed or cancelled. In an emergency the island could be evacuated quickly It'll be easier to travel to and from the mainland as the ferry's are really expensive and not everyone can afford to get to the mainland bridge crime No Who's paying The future prosperity of the island and the future generation. It's not just the here and now it's the legacy for them to remain on the island increase in access to island meaning cheaper costs for business and more people could visit increasing trade to island, my self would visit a few times a year but ferry cost stops me Employment opportunities. I live on the mainland but my family live on the island. I used to travel to the IOW every 6 weeks to visit them. The ferry prices have become so expensive that for the past 3 years, I have not been able to afford to go as frequently as I used to. I have observed the slow decline of tourists that there used to be. I believe this is a result of the increasing price of the ferries. Your island is a tourist holiday resort and desperately needs to hold on to the PAGE 82 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • remaining visitors, otherwise the Isle of Wight will become a place where people will not visit, resulting in a decline in the tourist industry causing businesses to cease trading and raise the unemployment which is already at a high level. Help the Island before it is too late. Capacity of emergency services to deal with additional visitors. Projection on age groups that would consider moving to IOW "Increase work/ business opportunities. Bring more money to the island. " Toll price needs to be right. Building cost should be foot by Westminster and it is 10 years overdue. The wealth of the Island has deteriated badly over the past 60 years. Now it appears the health services are to rely on the mainland more and more. This is one reason why access to and from the mainland should be easy and simple, as it should be to promote more business It will enable the island to flourish. Bridge Infrastructure on the Island especially improvement to the road system A train link to the north island (Newport - Cowes - Southampton - London) Impact on Employment. Cost of ferry prices too much the Island would be better placed on the social scale potential cost of project and timescales Can't think of any The ability having a tixed link would give to travel at any time of day or night for example emergency support for our emergency services or travelling in a personal emergency. It should not involve motor traffic only foot passengers via a rail link. Motor traffic would bring the Island to a standstill as well as create a major parking problem. The island currently is very deprived socially and economically and would benefit if a fixed link. I believe this would help to bring more money to the island that it desperately needs. Yes, a BRIDGE in preference to a tunnel. Please see my answer to Q10. Bridge or tunnel ? Employment opportunities. I think a bridge would be the better option and one that I would vote for No. Just get on with the survey and hopefully common sense will prevail that unless we have easy access to the island it will become a backwater or even die. no "Progressive intolerance of the isolation of living here as the generations pass. • Also I believe this is a 10-15 year project. I wonder if there is a certain age band of debater that should have lesss of a say than those of us who are likely to be living here when the ribbon is cut. • • There I've said it... you know what I'm trying to say! " The above is a bit ambiguous. The advantages of a tunnel are obvious for mobility of people giving greater opportunities for young folk to get jobs, for families to get away on holiday,for business, tourism, . We would then benefit from being able to get to hospitals more easily and possibly get more flow of Doctors, Teachers etc.. The ferries hold us all to ransome and the so called "ghetto" is caused by the terrible costs and thefact that they get more and more infrequent and unreliable "Progressive intolerance of the isolation of living here as the generations pass. • PAGE 83 • Also I believe this is a 10-15 year project. I wonder if there is a certain age band of debater that should have lesss of a say than those of us who are likely to be living here when the ribbon is cut. • • • • • There I've said it... you know what I'm trying to say! " Cost Increased investment on the Island with a fixed link whether it should be owned and run by the IoW No lets have a fixed link now also East to West Cowes the cost of ferries is to expensive after all we built a tunnel from Uk to france why not a bridge .we are fed up with the cost of ferries .we lost the bestival now the festival .I have letters from the MP saying he does not want to get involved but i should seek the I.O.Council ,it is about time with all the cancelations ferry breakdowns fires on board the vessel .cost of the crossing ,even at school holidays festivals ECT the ferry companies hype the cost of the ferries .so now it is time for a fixed link . Island road infrastructure Costs to use compared to ferry costs "Employment opportunities " "Funding !!! feel strongly that a study should not be subsidised by IWCC or taxpayer. For the purposes of freight & passenger traffic, a rail only link would be good, & would calm fears over envirnonment, being overwhelmed etc.however this has never been included in any debate as far as I recall over many years..." How, hopefully, the construction of a fixed-link would dramatically raise the aspirations of IW young people! Need to give young people an option of remaining in the IW - a fixed link would facilitate this; Sporting links would be vastly improved giving Islanders better opportunities to compete at all levels without high costs/restrictions/time limitations because of ferry times/uncertainties "adequate marshalling yard out of built up areas with bus, island train, taxi available onsite, and perhaps garage and car hire. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • " Employment Obviously, if a link becomes a fact then safety would move to top of my list. The Island is unique and protects much wildlife, eg red squirrels. This should be a factor for consideration. I just think we should build a fixed link straight away. As part of the feasibility study though, I think the fixed link should connect to the mainland rail network as well as being a road link so that neither passengers or vehicles are forced to get a ferry. Effect on property values I lived for 30 years on island and left due to high ferry costs and difficulty when travelling by train or plane. Costing should be for both a tunnel v bridge. No, I feel the above covers everything. Ferries are too expensive While I understand the cost implications of such a project, using the tunnel should be far more affordable than ferry travel. Career opportunities Career opportunities Cost Protection of red squirrels Loss of insular attractiveness and distictiveness. PAGE 84 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Wether our roads will cope with the extra influx of cars, not only the condition but the added accident risk involved. Improvements to travel time/costs "Can the island roads cope with increased traffic. The accessablity effect on island housing and deliveries when the island becomes a part of the UK mainland. " Bridge producing hydroelectric power The effects on younger people Conservation London Example: Londoner's don't get charged for the Woolwich ferry service or the three new ferries currently being designed for this service (funds via central government). I understand they are subsidised to the tune of approx. £3.5mil per year. Another example: Isle of Sheppey bridge was built even though the traffic numbers are a small fraction of those that would be using the Isle of Wight service. Would the I.O.W. service be subsidised by the government (or free) like the two schemes mentioned above? The ferries are strangling the life outof the Island.We need this to stop before the next generation have nothing left here A bridge to the west of the Island would be my preference rather than a tunnel. A tunnel isnt the ONLY alternative there should also be a space for a Bridge My main reason for wanting to come to the island is because I have family and friends there. At the moment I can afford to come home approximately 3 or 4 times a year. If there was a fixed link I would definitely come back more and possibly consider moving to the island myself. I currently work in theatre meaning I can work long and late hours so commuting to and the island via the ferry service is not possible with this job and is too expensive to make it worth the time and effort. "Over costing of the ferry companies to customers. Holiday makers not wishing to pay the excessive cost to go on holiday, just because the limited way to get off of the Island, to go on holiday and then people wishing to come to the Island - who have to pay the extra to come over - If it was my choice, I would go down to Bournemouth / Plymouth area than pay an extra £100+ if I lived on the mainland." Young Islanders are leaving the Island and many do not return, with a fixed link they would be able to work on the mainland and return to the Island. The IW has turned into a retirement Island with people retiring here with no interest in the young Islanders but they want isolation from the mainland. Totally unsustainable. The financial impact of tolls/ tariffs for Islanders using the facility. A survey of existing businesses on island to see if the effects on island employment are considered positive or negative "advantages and disadvantages of alternative routes. advantages and disadvantages of alternative solutions." Alternative Routes e.g. Upgrade link from M27 into tunnel at Fawley rising at Northwood with cross Medina bridge to spread traffic flow. "I regularly have to visit hospitals on mainland. Would be great to have faster way of getting there (tunnel). " cost for islanders should be very cheap compared to the ferries Reliability of ferries and cost. Sometimes it costs over £100 to get off the island with petrol and ferry prices. Employment prospects Employment Effective mainland route on from tunnel/bridge to key main road routes. Also rail link w outdoor be good. PAGE 85 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Location of tunnel exit on Iw No "Benefits to the economy of the Island " How monopolised the IW is becoming. Consideration of a bridge or tunnel. If they can connect most of the island in Norway to the mainland they can certainly do it for the isle of Wight to the mainland "Timing. The longer this takes the further the island has to catch-up with the relative social and economic levels of the region and sub-regions. " An influx of young people under forty can only benefit and remove the stigma of the island being a large old peoples home and gods waiting room which it currently has due to it's large retired population. (ps. I am sixty four and recognise the need to change) No The price of the ferries! Whether Island becomes a soft target for crime. Not just trains, as we will still be held hostage. An unexplored bomb was found recently in the Solent which resulted in all ferries not running. Only Red Funnel. A bridge would not have stopped people leaving the Island Crime "Ferry monopolies. Island Major Incident response times for mainland emergency services Costs savings for Air Ambulance/Hospital vists. " "There are two over-riding reasons to consider this. First what benefits and possible downsides there would be once a tunnel opened. Second, what benefits and downsides would be likely in the future if we don't have a tunnel. I can't emphasise enough my concerns about this aspect of your feasibility study." "1. Cost of road tunnel 2. Cost of alternative rail tunnel similar to EuroStar/ passenger" cost/payment of the tunnel. Cost of travelling in the tunnel. A road tunnel or similar to channel tunnel? The economic state of the Island A rail tunnel must be included as an option, ie Southampton Airport-Southampton Central-Fawley-Cowes-Newport using automated driverless trains and an option for freight. Speed and reliability of cross Solent travel. Opinions of people in the surrounding mainland area should also be considered Location of Mainland and Island tunnel terminals. It desperately needs looking at! The cost to travel is ridiculous! And for some they are held hostage on this island because they cannot afford to get off! The weather... A tunnel would not be affected by high winds or low tides allowing a constant flow of both traffic and emergency services Bridge Cost of usage. Further regeneration, cost Cost of project vs cost of use to public Cost of existing ferry travel and the dangers of the current duopoly minimize marine environmental impact by ferries becoming redundant Aesthetic visual impact on the island side. Why is a tunnel being considered as the only option ? "The IW road system would require a large amount of restructuring. PAGE 86 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A toll would still be necessary to help pay for the development of the infrastructure. Adequate control of traffic flow level and monitoring of people will be necessary." "Cost? Currently like '£100 day return on the wightlink or red funnel' How much is it going to cost? Perhaps another factor is where will it be located?" The future of the island, the younger generation needs more input to the island to keep the tourism & population up. Overall costs to build v time to recoup costs and the impact on charges The future of the island as a whole. This is not a flash in the pan, it is an opportunity to provide for the future Sustainability of the Island: skills being lost as a result of no fixed link. SROI of fixed link. Whether it should be a tunnel . Why not a bridge like in Sweden ?they have train line underneath too Reduction of ferry service costs and an alternative to ferries.) accompanying investment for any link Cost and who pays, who funds The cost. The financial aspect - use of tolls? toll-free access for island residents versus fees for inbound traffic? Ideally the study should somehow shed light on the duopoly in place with the ferries currently since this seems to be the main cause for anyone wanting a fixed link - if ferry travel was cheaper, surely the desire for a fixed link would be minimal? cost of doing it and cost of not doing it It should not use IOW council monies to fund the study. high cost of ferry services and their link to unemployment You're presuming that a tunnel is the only option in the previous question. Finances, i.e. who will pay for it, taxpayers, local or national, or private investment. This directly relates to the cost of using the link, which is equally important. Cost of fixed link in comparison to boats. Will it be cheaper? If not then I would reconsider my opinion. Better trains for the island "The social restriction placed on families and employees on the Isle of Wight that is caused by the unreasonable prices and monopoly of the existing ferry services. There is also the food, fuel, and essential services factor, the island is currently completely cut off from assistance should an incident occur." Crime Finance and available of funding to support such development Why haven't we got a fixed link already? Opportunities from inward investment cost of use; The un-reliability of ferry companies & inconsistent charges. 24hr link urgently needed to get to mainland hosp.funerals etc. None Limited flow - IOW roads could not take a huge increase in traffic flow. Ferry prices. Bus links to mainland Effects of car based tourism on other seaside towns in the South . a bridge Areas of digging Why is only a tunnel being considered, pIsland since 1971why not a bridge? I want to be able to visit family whenever I want and not worry about costs!!!!! "Impact on crime (no boundaries) PAGE 87 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Migration to island fixed and more tourism and the impact of the added burden on the services - healthcare, education, roads " There just needs to be some sort of bridge or tunnel to the Isle of Wight - for easier access. If a fixed link is proved to be too expensive, environmentally unsound or just too unsafe then maybe a look into the two ferry companies and their charges would be a decent alternative. I understand that these companies need to turn a profit, but neither companies are island based and so don't seem to really consider the impact that the high costs (£28 for a period return on foot for example) have on an island populated by a majority of people living on pensions and minimum wage. Illegal drivers using the link. It should have ANPR camera system each end to catch illegal cars from crossing the solent. I.e uninsured, no tax etc Access to major trunk roads on the main land i.e. M27 M3 etc. Accessible departure point on the island, Bouldner would be good Convenience of a tunnel for the islanders A rail link as an alternative WHERE the tunnel will emerge on the island. Will there be room? Will people lose housing? The cost to use it? Should not be a road link, this way the roads don't get overloaded with to many vehicles, the island keeps it's charm which attracts tourists & there will still be a need for ferry services The current methods of gaining access to the Island act as a monopoly and travel costs are destroying the Island economy. It's probably cheeper to travel to the Mediterranean from the Mainland than travel to the Island, this is destroying the Island economy. Fare charges are unfair. In effect the Company that took over Wighlink got it for free because all their loan costs are covered by the fares charged. So we have in effect given them an interest free loan. Consider altering cost basis of ferry first. Scottis miles equivalent tarriff. Future maintenance cost of any fixed link. Application of excess profit from tolls to benefit island (hampshire is too rich anyway). If link is buildt consider Isle of Skye model (FREE bridge) The long term benefits in a fixed link for all and the downside. They Need To Think About The Travelling Comunity,Who Might Desend On The Island. Those who want to a tunnel should move to the mainland. Any toll for use of a FL. Transport connections at either end of the FL. No we just need to be part of the mainland. What could happen in the long term to tourism, healthcare, education to the island residents if a fixed link would not happen. freedom to go to the mainland and not cost a arm and a leg. Alternatives to a fixed link Building a tidal barrage across narrowest point of Solent to generate electricity for the Isle of Wight and provide the fixed link too. Other major traffic management investments on the Island, instead of or as well as a fixed link to the mainland. Mainly a road crossing of the River Medina north of Newport (around Stag lane?), to move the Ryde to Cowes & Ryde to West Wight traffic away from Newport/Coppins Bridge. It's not needed. Unhappy with travelling from the IoW then please feel free to move to the mainland. Ferries run to a regular service. Get on one. "Costs and rates of travel for Island residents. Location of arrival and departure points. Maintaining essential acute and secondary healthcare on the IoW." The number of days/ hours at which ferries and hovercraft are unable to travel Cost of the current service A comparison with the effects of opening fixed links elsewhere, eg Skye? PAGE 88 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It should be a bridge on the western solent Investment opportunities if the tunnel was to be built, just like EuroTunnel did.. Shares opportunities and investment. No The council shouldn't have to pay for the study as we can't afford basic services as it is. Will compensation need to be paid to the ferry companies for the loss of their businesses. The cost of the ferries makes you feel like a prisoner. Unable to see family due to cost having to travel on ferries to reach hospital for treatments in a very poorly state. Young have limited opportunity for work due to ferry costs. InsteInstead of tunnel non profit making ferrys Rail versus road link Cost of use. it's no good if it cost rip-off prices like the ferries. "Economic recovery of the Island. Property market - stagnant for many years." I think the projects viability should be confirmed once and for all with some realistic estimates of use and revenues. The impact on the Islands Highway Network is a major concern, capacity is already an issue even in the winter months when we have much lower levels of visitors. no Cost of building a link against cost of using it. Must be competitive Charges to use the crossing should be far less than the ferry Why no mention of bridge? Freedom of movement for island residents when weather/other events essentially make us prisoners "Pro points... more convenient for travel both ways. The opportunity for travel to mainland hospitals, where we are struggling to cope here. Increase in tourism and business opportunities. No cancellations of ferries etc in bad weather. Cons... Increase of traffic." Part of a Solent economic area Depending on placement and type of link if tidal power could be generated Cost to users. It's bad enough being held hostage by the ferry companies. We shouldn't hand that power to someone else.. Islands own infrastructure to cope with the potential increase of cars and Costs of the build and toll fee. "A bridge rather than a tunnel Would it be a charged crossing and by how much. " Emergency measures for evacutions or emergency response to the island when ferry and travel is impossible Employment for islanders Where it would be sited and ease of use Option of bridge as a more viable and tourist attracting solution Access on both sides of the Solent should be designed to stop the horrendous queues we can get now . Whether a rail tunnel would be a lower cost alternative to a road link, and whether it could give most of the benefits without the penalty of increased traffic. cost Island security and cost especially as the Council has just announce the cuts. Where will the money come from? Will the charges be set aside for maintenance etc. or used to fund other projects. Look at the cost of the Floating Bridge and misuse of funds from that, now the over 100% price increase, we do not want another "project" for the Council to squander any profit. PAGE 89 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Twenty year brief for ferry prices and decline of I.O.W tourism and the projected future of tourism over the next 15 years. "Bridge versus tunnel. Opportunity (with bridge option) to create something architecturally and culturally significant " Culture (Arts and entertainment industries), Access for those with disabilities, Film Industry (location options), specifically Cancer care. Whether the transport system can be improved. The thought of thousands of more vehicles on the road wil cause pollution and traffic jams. Realistic costs Cost Not all people who live here should have a say, automatic right if you were born and live here or have lived here longer than 10+ years, I'd like to say 25+ years,but that may be unfair. The STP has implications on how healthcare, particularly for more serious conditions will be delivered. The current travel arrangements impact the provision of health and social care significantly and it may be a way of easying pressures. I do not feel that this is something best led or undertaken by the council given the resource impact this would have on already stretched services. I would also argue on whether the council could maintain an impartial view during this study. nil The ability to move on or off the island as ans when needed must be factored in in all of the above. Just get on with it. I have watched the Island die slowly over my lifetime and it needs to stop. Cost savings to people using fixed link versus current ferry Cost of service Bus and. Train links through tunnel for pedestrians.I don't drive and find getting to mainland an ordeal as I have osteoarthritis . "1. Extension of the New Forest National Park to include the entire Isle of Wight in order to stop a development gold rush ruining the rural environment. 2. Alternative completely free expanded ferry service paid for by central government as part of the national road network similar to some services in the USA considered as vital for the economy not to have a financial barrier therefore consider the service as an extension to the road." "I think the most important consideration is where the tunnel would start and end and the where the transport links to get to these would be. " Financial Arguments against should be considered addressed and calmed - we need this fixed link here!!! Economy of course! Control of Pests in particular protection of Red Squirrel If fixed link not visible then cost of ferry prices reduced for Isle of Wight residence A max capacity of none mainland visitors at any one time. Cost price of using the tunnel the main problem with the ferry services is they can charge what they like and provide the minimal amount of service Cost, Ownership. cost Bridge possibilities PAGE 90 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • That with a fixed link, it could no longer be considered an island......and would thus lose it's tourist charm and main form of income. It would be difficult to justify separate governance and would become an extension of Hampshire. Jobs people being able to travel quickly and cheaply to work on the mainland and resident rates for any tolls. Who pays for the study and how much does it cost? A fixed link offers 24 hour access to and from the Island. This is vital in the 21st century, for personal travel, emergencies and just as an alternate option to high priced ferries, which frequently do not run, or are late and do not operate in early hours continually.! We frequently attend concerts etc and have to leave early to get last ferry back or sit and wait for hours for first ferry to start. Ferries do not provide a 24 hour service and as of late hardly a service at all. Ferry cost Crime increase and police numbers?! The UK is linked by tunnel to France and it has remained an island. The cost of travel for families seeing each other. Health care. More on the mainland now. Prosperity of Islanders. How on Earth we would pay for it? It will cost tons and for something so controversial which a lot of people are against I think is a waste of resources that could be better spend elsewhere such as the islands rapidly decreasing reputation for education or the appalling mental health services on the island. These are just two of many ideas that would have less opposition to money being invested to actually improve the island. Possible effect on crime rates and house prices Toll cost & improved local infrastructure The ferry services rip off passengers in every way possible. Even Multi link tickets, you pay £500 up front to be told no room on the ferry you but you can pay additional to go. When you get there the ferry is not full. A YES - A BRIDGE! Points on entry/landing. Cost. How it would be paid for. Funding and charges - also who will pay for the study When can we have one Should be tunnel, so winds do not stop or disrupt using a bridge. Likely cost per journey Why isn't there a fixed link already ???? It's the 21st century. tunnell please Long term impact on island life Looking at our rights as an Island to the same benefits from Goverment as the Isle of Man and Scottish Islands regarding affordable travel. Maintenance costs. Ownership. Business model. Short and long term impact. The next generation, what future has this island got? The children of today, will my charity shop workers tomorrow Bridge/tunnel hybrid eg Chesapeake Bay in US How it would be funded - toll fees even if they are the same level of ferry costs would be acceptable because of the greater ease and convenience. Time is of the essence... the island is dying.... The true feelings from the entire Island people. We need a vote and action. Benefit to island Cost "No " The island, due to its high statistics, is known as the retirement isle - hopefully this would change if more younger people were attracted by an easier mode of access to the islan Islander discounts on use of fixed link compared to ferry travel. PAGE 91 • • • • • • • • • rail or road, plus cyclists and pedestrian/mobility/scooter/wheelchairs? no FL but a new ferry service Island infer structure and the size of vehicles allowed onto the island, in fact this should be considered now. With the possibility of a fixed link so far away, the Island should look to owning control of its own/public Port of entry. Then with a consensus of agreement with current operators and an Island Traffic management plan we could control 80% of Solent ferry services. A 3 berth linkspan with associated infrastructure could then be offered to operators to contract a competitive service. ferry service is unreliable ,due to weather conditions ,and very expensive Fed up with Being held to ransom by the ferry companies and there times No Gentrification and impact on housing for low income people, Loss of Culture and authenticity on the island. Impact on Crime. "Yes - likelihood of economic growth. Likelihood of increased crime. It's easy to dismiss the latter but it keeps coming up and need a definitive study to put it to bed. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • And question 8 is impossible to answer sensibly." £180 a week to bring new scaffold to the island fucking joke Location of each end of link and connecting road infrastructure Cost of the various options compared with the existing means of crossing the Solent. A bridge. A toll for those coming to the island. Breakdown services. "increase employment on the island save millions of hours wasted on ferry travel boom in the local housing market" No Families split by a stretch of water and reliance on expensive ferry services Changing climate may affect ferry travel availability in the future. Need No "How the build will be financed and whether a toll will be imposed to pay for it. The financing should be looked at in a lot of detail to ensure the IW residents are not penalised for its use. • Population growth and movement needs to be carefully considered to ensure the IOW's land and resources are not significantly impacted. " Crime our children's safety, over crowding in housing doctors. Building a Bridge probably would be cheapest option Travel time will be less with a fixed link "Prices for living and working on the island and choice of travel to or from the mainland for business or pleasure . " Comparative statistics for GDP / capita, education data for English counties, average incomes. Cost to Islanders The inconvenience of fixed ferry timetables and waiting round for ferrys, whereas a fixed link would offer much more freedom, and the prices of the ferry is extortionate for an inadequate service Criminal passage with less ability for monitoring Cost I don't think there should be a study. Tolls, nationalising the ferries • • • • • • • • • • • • PAGE 92 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A non vehicle fixed link No. Hampshire cc, iow cc partnership. Portsmouth, Southampton, iow combined authority. The fact the ferry companies are privately owned and have a complete monopoly over the island Freedom of movement without being held hostage by ferry companies Easier to join up with Hampshire councils Cost of ferrys takes away the tourism which takes away business on the island,,ferry costs are just too high we need fixed link ,,Sandown has been renamed Rundown. No. No Public opinion is paramount. Impact on affordable property The possibility of encouraging the younger generations to stay on the Island through better transport and job opportunity. Have to residents own shares in it so we can get a small dividend depending how many shares we buy. So all the "profits" do not go exclusively to a foreign company. Cost and whether our government in Westminster consider the prospect of a tunnel (fixed link) would be considered to be a lifeline. If tunnel not possible, how can we reduce costs of the ferries? Who will pay for the fixed link and its upkeep? Council tax is being stretched every which way as it is and for far more important things than a fixed link. We need to look at the effects other communities have experienced for instance island of Skye to see if the claims made of benefits by the pro group were realised The island should have a rail tunnel linking with the mainland to avoid a mass influx of cars that roads will not be able to handle. The IW also needs a joined up approach to public transport, for example a light rail network across the Island linking with the tunnel to take people to a network rail station on the mainland. Likely crossing costs Building an airport for commercial flights, much cheaper, combined with tramlinks or good bus services and car rental at ports and airport, much cheaper and a boost to tourism, a fix link would kill tourism dead Benefits other islands have felt from having a fixed link. Where the tunnel crossing is to be placed The cost of carrying out such a study. Also this survey relies solely on those with access to emails. What about those who don't? . A very poor survey! Cost & who pays for it & then cost to cross it when it's built. sort out cheaper fares , or build a bridge We are being unfairly treated by ferry company's with VERY poor service. Loo Life costs i.e. Maintenance costs for our children make the facility affordable to all No The main issue is the cost of the ferries. Public ownership with subsidised fares seems like the best solution by far. Potential cost of crossing, & if the tunnel will be run publicly or by private company Effect on mainland road congestion. Consider alternative routes, not just one. Issue some stats on what the cost of travelling each way through the tunnel will be, if its far cheaper and more reliable than the boats, then really its going to a no brainer. Rather than a road tunnel why not a rail tunnel from Ryde St Johns to Hillsea. Use rail for freight and public. Regenerate Ryde as a terminus. Wealth to the Island - cost to drivers of using potential fixed link. The cost of ferry fees, which can be absolutely astronomical; the suspension or delays in ferries during bad weather, etc PAGE 93 • • • • • • • • • • • • • Whether frequent travellers would save money by using the fixed link. The Island needs better education, better access to health care, more opportunities for our young people Whether the tunnel is for cars or trains, or both. With the types of tunnels you should look at a double car lane to/from Then the other half should be for train.. that way the original island line will be Better off and could link to the Portsmouth harbour line.... How about a cable car commuter link like in London In this debate there is is a major part of the debate that is missing! It is not recognised in the discussions that happen on the IW and that is the impact on the mainland communities that probably will not want an IW tunnel to be built near to them. Congestion, overcrowding, lack of space, disruption etc etc in communities on the mainland have to be factored into this debate. The view of the local residents on the mainland, how much having an I'll functioning link impacts transport, work opportunities and hospitals (both sides of the water, I know from my work that mainland hospitals have issues with discharging patients to the IoW due to travel issues) That people travelling by ferry are tied to boat times and very restricted, also charged for changing crossing. With a fixed link we would be free to go any time. Also the massively varying costs of the boat also prevent visits to family and friends both on the island and mainland. Price Price of ferries. Hospitals or lack of them. Jobs. Costs. It must happen to keep the island going. Crime rates. "I strongly support a study but feel it should be widened out to include all options for cross solent travel, including but not limited to a fixed link. • For example, I would like to see the option of air travel considered fully, given this is the main form of transportation for the majority of small Islands around the world. Jersey has half the population of the Isle of Wight with regular flights, in particular to London. • Another example would be the potential explored for Hovertravel to operate additional routes. " Build a bridge. Financial implications employment opportunities Whether to introduce a toll or not "Safety Iow residents should get discount." "Construction Cost Method of funding (State or PFI) Operating Cost Operating funding (State or PFI)" Cheaper fares for I W residents. Affordable for students So old fashion not to have link, it was agreed before war Cost and charges for user Cost of useage "How much people are willing to pay to cross a fixed link. " Renewable energy incorporated into the link to potentially harness energy for the island. The study must be transparent and value for money • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • PAGE 94 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Income that can be generated by the Tunnel. The prices for vehicles - cars, lorries, motorbikes. Commuting Cost of study should not be down to tax payer via the council, instead via fixed link operator / owner A euro star rail to island in a tunnel would be way better and control traffic! Visiting family on the mainland requires crossing the most expensive waterway in Europe, this and the issue of people applying for work on the island or to potentially move here is hindered by this high cost, it also causes problems with ferry company monopoly and the pricing structure that we have no say or control over. Future of nhs service on the island and cost of hospital travel. Access to mainland when ferrys dont run or run delayed. Benefits to island schools to he able to easily travel to off island events Opportunities given to island residents to build careers without having to move off the island and away from family and friends that would be brought about by the introduction of a fixed link Bridge or tidal barrage (can generate electricity 24hrs a day) Compare to similar islands that have fixed links i.e. Anglesey which has has a very positive effect obviously costs Ability to travel at all times independent of weather The monopoly the ferry companies have had in recent years has hugely hindered business growth on the island. Both price and timing are huge factors that a fixed link could easily resolve. Transparency of financing and profiting. With a fixed link Better access to health services (take the pressure off St Marys, better employment, better education with a fixed link, more business opportunities, access to better care homes with a fixed link. No It would be handy for there to be a train involved, my partner works abroad and him getting him after late landing flights it's hard as he doesn't drive. Reflect on different age groups living on Island. Young adults have to leave Island to get work currently unless they work in the health service. "Unless included within ""Social Effects"", the following should be covered: - Consumer choice - Impact on sports clubs (Wessex League football clubs and the rowing clubs in particular) " No but make it feasibly. Soon as the is done let start to build it. Cost of current ferry services "fair pricing. " AONB The time frame for it to be built Free passage for year long residents. Coats, recovering the costs and ensuring ownership belongs to the island council not a PFI. Route of tunnel,cost of tunnel to construct,location of portals mainland and iow,funding of consruction Economic consequences of not having fixed link. We dont have economies of scale in health care and social services and attracting professionals (doctors , teachers etc) to work here is challenging so costs of locums and/ or effects of not gaving the best people willing to work here exacerbates all the other issues faced by being an island PAGE 95 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Cost Crime!!! With the ferry prices as they are islanders cant commute to the mainland to earn a decent wage. A quick and cheaper link would bring SO many benefits I'm surprised it's not been done YEARS ago. I'd love to move to the IOW but my IT business requires frequent and quick trips to the mainland. My parents also looked to retire on the isle but because of the cost & the reduction in ferry services, its not Weather, mechanical breakdowns, staffing. Whickham options would be quicker to implement Increase in crime There needs to be a study and the IOW should have the facts about this issue before deciding what direction to take. none Is a bridge feasible or not, due to Solent traffic and large cruise liners and container ships? Why isn't employment in the list?It's a glaring omission. Employment availability on /off the island Funding and final cost to users Cost Competition! No mention of a bridge? Cost and local infrastructure to cope with new roads Employment opportunities Ability to increase the high technology footprint of the island and its benefits to jobs and employment. I think Loss of jobs on the island for example. Hospital drs and nurses. They could close hospital and reduce services if fixed link happened. Jobs would be lost. WHEN I HAVE SPOKEN TO PEOPLE RE: ADVANTAGES OF FIXED LIN K THEY ALWAYS THROUGH THE INCREASE IN CRIME CARD Emergency services Employment businesses will grow. Opertunities for the new generation of Islanders the cost! Cost to use How the islands road traffic will cope . How much it will cost to cross the tunnel single and return. Will the tunnel become free to use once the cost + plus profit have been repaid not at all interested in a tunnel only a bridge if there must be a fixed link. see Ile d'Oleron link The cost of travel We need it, the ferries are extortionate. We would get more trade and visitors with a fixed link Cost of travel, freedom of movement, not having to plan travel far in advance. Less dependant on the weather "Jobs, safe guarding our industries Opportunity for younger generations to travel of the island " many ANPR cameras Cost of use. PAGE 96 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • To stop the scaremongering from those apposed to the fixed link and to clarify the facts about the pros and cons from each method of travel from an unbiased outside body one that the ferry companies have no influance on! Impact on employment - how will it affect jobs for Island Residents Ease of crossing. no Cost to use The Isle of Wight residence are like prisoners when it comes to traveling to and from home to see family and theatre shows. And for taking up the offers from the cross channel ferries. The ferry costs make this impossible for many island residents. The IOW is dying, started slowly but gathering pace now, soon will be the largest care home in the UK, NHS being strangled by OAP's, high care dependency. With little daytripper / short-term visitors able to afford and come and spend money that others are reaping the benefit from. Zombie apocalypse Prices for ferry fares, if it wasn't so expensive, would we really need a fixed link Cost of ferry transport The continued cancelled ferries! Cost of Ferries. The ability for an enclosed bridge - I believe nearly all large ships use the eastern approach to southampton / portsmouth, so why cant there be a rule as there are in other ports that you can only approach from one direction? bridge possibility bridge Health care is of particular importance access to specialists and to be able to travel 24hours a day. Tunnel to make the island more accessible "Cost to individuals of crossing the solent convenience of crossing the solent to individuals" Cost The future development of the island and advantages a fixed link would bring. Also due to having to get more healthcare in Southampton a fixed link would make all the difference for time and urgency. Demonstrating economic value. Proposed cost to residents. Site locations. Red Squirrel population vs Greys on mainland Cost of use and how competetive it is with ferries Demand "Crime rate. Fixed link travel costs. Keep it low. Health care: Traveling to the mainland easily will help islanders reach appointments that aren't available here. Access to a 21st century livelier life style. " Access for islanders to things currently not available such as higher education. The duopoly of the ferry services and extortionate prices should be reviewed I don't see how you can effectively rate the above if you can not duplicate the priority level? The value it will give the islands business, education and tourism. Affordable and reliable for it to be viable. A bridge Non traffic, maybe a shuttle service Location Cost of travell for Islanders firstly. Costs for tourists, this area must be increased. Costs for hospital patients/ retired people. The IOW is becoming a ghetto for the old and feeble because of its isolation PAGE 97 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Where will it go. It will naturally impact on tourism and we need to find out whether it will have a detrimental effect Funding of the link; future impact on Island if no fixed link established and only privately run funded ferries operating (further price increases and reduced regularity); No none just get it done Recruitment potential for all public sector work , youth retainment Ask the residents how many times they would leave the island if there was a fixed link vs how many they do currently. Also ask how it would improve their quality of life and opportunities. If the fixed link does not go ahead then I would like to think that ferry companys should make serious reduced fares for islanders. Unbiased opinion is required, currently wrong people involved in a position of power. Influence from ferry companies needs to be avoided. Secure funding, no financial liability to local residents if the project fails mid construction. Who pays for it. Ask under 18s Cost for users Rail links and improving the railway system on the Island Extortionate Cost of wight link/ red funnel services The ferry companies should be made to halve their prices so a fixed link wouldn't even be on the cards It must be affordable to use Cost of project, potential locations and routes, proposed cost of toll. Suicide rate. If people can escape the island I think it would lower. "Cost vs ferry Recreational activities Additional work / opportunities being able to be based on the island but travel easily Instantly knocking a hour off any mainland travel " Opportunity to have the ability to leave the Island at a minutes notice for whatever reason..... "Potential for Crime rates to rise. Road conditions Prices for Island residents returning to the Island against prices for Mainlanders coming to the Island for tourism etc." We must keep our hospital as it is No Tighter controls over the ferry providers could negate the need for a tunnel Cost The islands road system in general and the predicted effect on house prices. We need to consider that if we dont do something about this the island will become a permanent care home with nothing to keep our family here Who gets a say in this... For example the most strongly opinionated people against a link are overners that have priced us locals out of the property market and are here for retirement, there should be a minimum term of residence before people get a say in the islands future like in other countries where people aren't allowed to vote for several years. Crime protection, wildlife protection, toll Improving public transport on island to reduce number of cars Removing the monopoly of the ferry companies Cost of use vs cost of ferries. Quality of life, effects of not having another option to get to the mainland. Expensive ferries. PAGE 98 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Keep island clean/litter, dog poo/pee of pavements "Cost Benefits to the IOW" Railway only Impact on property value I think in order to but minds at ease there needs to be an in depth study of the protential methods to limit the number of vehicles using the link i.e. Tolls Initial cost to the taxpayer Cost of ferry travel is crippling the island. Cost vs economic benefit Potential travel costs No Public Transport on the Isle of Wight Payback and financing of tunnell None Potential crime increase and homelessness The generation that should really be listened to are the ones who it affects more. Don't let this be another brexit disaster. Help us get the island to be a better place to live for everyone and make this FL happen Security Significant Islander discounts on toll road, so they are no longer trapped on the island by ridiculously high prices. Immigration The influence of 65+ voters on the demand for the tunnel the people who live here being given a say in what happens ans all employment going to local firms Access by the emergency services, especially in a "worst case" scenario eg. a major fire at St.Mary's hospital Location of tunnel on IOW and mainland - the route is important as I feel it would need to link quickly to a main road on the mainland to prevent traffic build up in a residential area. Equally considerations of proximity to ferry ports on the island as traffic can be affected by ferry sailings during large events etc. Get it done asap. The ferrys hold us to ransom charging for a holiday not a crossing!!! "Cost of travel to/from Toll costs Access 24/7" Points of exit/entry No Who would pay for it? Quality of life for island residents Time and funding Employment and career opportunities, particularly for young island residents. A realistic way of charging a minimum amount for cars. Cost to those having to use the service No Economy There needs to be a fixed link. This island is so backwards!! No Cheap tunnel for easy reliable route to the island Numbers of vehicals and people should be monitored No, bring it on! PAGE 99 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Can the existing road network be upgraded to cope with extra traffic generated. And does it need to be improved i.e. New faster road between Newport and Ryde. Some major infrastructure projects across the country have a poor business case, why are they progressed? Locals opinions cost,accessibility,travel times,security Cost to construct and to use. Anticipated Cost to users Cost Money should not be wasted by an expensive study cost of travelling fixed link, subsidies from government Heritage uniqueness of the I O W Community ownership and funding options The impact on cost of living and its effect on the increase of wages on the Isle of Wight. Cost of build and who's funding. Cost of travelling on the fixed link. Will the price jump dramatically after a year or so because it was underfunded. It should be closed at weekends too protect the Islands way of life! "How much it would cost and where will the money come from " Cost Where there could be help towards costs and would they be recoverable All of these factors as they currently are should also be investigated and compared; i.e., traffic management for ferries is already not ideal so a fixed link although it may bring some traffic issues would probably not be anymore significant than the traffic issues already caused by our existing cross Solent link. The Duopoly's control over the solent and ergo everybody's lives and businesses and they should have no control over this going ahead or not. They stand to lose their business. They should be allowed to contribute funding and recieve revenue the same as anybody else, but we must NOT allow the duopoly to stand in the way of progress. Ferries are slow, antiquated, polluting, unreliable and a bain to many people's lives. we need an alternative for people who live on the island who cant afford ridiculous ferry prices Economic impact of increasing accessibility Influence from the big ferry companies and the island's only bus provider should not be allowed. Cost, from all sides e.g., saving for regular travelers. House prices could be an issue can the roads cope with the volume of traffic "The benefits to local/ small businesses on the island, including those within the tourism industry. And the effects it will have on families, if there is more people moving/ traveling to the island. i.e; more crime/ drugs coming over to the island." Running cost Potential to return a profit to any prospective investors. Portal locations. Building costs. Maintenance costs. Ticketing metodologies, including electronic as seen on French motorways. Cost "Many social aspects - supply and demand of healthcare and education. Additionally the impact it would have on those who have half of their family that do not live on the island, meaning visits / meet ups are limited to once every year - 3 years! Additional considerations - bridge similar to the one into Wales? " PAGE 100 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Island is dying. It is being killed off by the greed and lack of service given to the island residents by the ferry companies. They operate a duopoly and residents need other options of access to go about their daily and family business. Comparison of annual price increases by ferry companies compared with inflation and island average incomes. "1. Cost of current ferry/hover links to mainland for IoW residents are exhorbitant. IoW residents are effectively 'held to ransom' by the current operators. 2. A fixed link would create economic opportunities that would improve the current decline on the IoW. " Getting rid of the reduculous ferries I think this would be a waste of money - it would be much more efficient to lobby for fixed cheaper fares on ferries than plan, build and maintain a fixed link. We want a service not a tunnel Those, like myself, that do not want a fixed link should be taken into consideration The most important one is to actually get opinions from the people that commute to and from the island. No point asking OAP's since they won't be using the ferry services often so Thier opinion on the subject isn't very valid if they don't not travel regularly. Overall effect on economy encompassing tourism and business. Also, have mainland businesses been contacted to ask if they would benefit from a fixed link? Would mainland businesses encourage a fixed link to improve access to the IOW? Public transport across the tunnel The cost of WightLink ferries If it will be any cheaper than the ferries. Time to get the tunnel constructed N/A Hydro power No fracking The duopoly of the ferry companies prices needs to be investigated Are you looking at various places on the island/mainland where the terminals will be sited. Will you look into a bridge if a tunnel might not be appropriate? Make the fixed link cost effective to use. Longer term impacts to public services as well as general healthcare, council, fire and police etc. Employment opportunities both on and off the island "The ratings above do not work. Passenger only - " See family more would be great The extra costs of living in an isolated island community. Why is the IOW not given extra funding by central government? Why are the existing ferry links not subsidised as they are in the Scottish island's? I think it's very important to discuss the multiplier effect of improving access to the Island, which will improve education social mobility , health. It's just so obvious to me!! price and accessability I just think it would be better for hospital visits and people that work on the mainland. Also more people would visit iow brimging money to the island General investment is needed to support the island, but all the time the ferries monopolise access tourism will be difficult to encourage. E.g. Bestival Price charges Employment. New potential employment Housing COST!! PAGE 101 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • cost to use tunnel Cost of such an endeavour and where the money is going to come from. Impact on the special nature of the island's environment that is a consequence of being a little bit inaccessible. Location of tunnel entrances each side. As central both sides the better to discourage people from opting to catch a ferry because the port is closer to where they're going from or to. The monopoly of the ferry companies! Creating a way for the ferries to become cheaper in the first place rather than spending millions of pounds on a bridge which could ultimately cost thousands of jobs if red funnel or wight link lose business. The numbering of the above last question is a deliberate way of manipulating an untrue advantage in whatever political way you want this to go . So this survey is in accurate waste of time. Currently a lot of late teens move to the mainland for employment. With a quick fixed link this would put a stop to this and the IOW would benefit. The ferry company's are slowly killing the IOW's growth, other places have a fixed link, why not us. I 100% think there should be a tunnel to the mainland. Or at least £20 crossing for islanders to use, £5 foot passenger tickets (return), it disguising what we have to pay. My children haven't been to Legoland, Thorpe Park or the others the advertise on the tv because the ferry just puts the price up to over £150 for a day out. I haven't seen my relatives for I don't know how long now. I love the Island, I love going for walks and love the beaches. But the island needs to catch up with the rest of England. Why hasn't a proper vote been done for the islanders, I think the council would be surprised in the results. I don't go to Newport shopping as I hate it there, there is no shops anymore worth going to, I do all my shopping online now. "How much business it would bring back to the island. Cheaper posting on large goods that we pay loads for. " Loss of the isle of Wight identity (brand) I would like to see the Study deliver a relatively broad brush view on the impact of a fixed link on the economy of the Island and to survey professionals in a variety of fields on if they woul live and work on the Island if a fixed link were available. I would also like them to consider the economic future of the Island if a fixed link is not built. "The island is facing a long term decline with young people leaving the island or undertaking low paid and low skilled jobs Infrastructure is in very poor condition with other tourist destinations more attractive and economically attractive to tourists Sandown Town Centre Ryde shopping area Newport town centre are very shappy a fixed link would improve great inward investment " the future of the island as a holiday destination re the cost of ferries and a flight or ferry abroad. Cost of current offerings Using this fixed link to improve as many aspects of the Isle of Wight as possible. Crime. Policing. Centralisation of emergency services. Cost of use. Effects on housing prices. Difficult to put in order, fixed link would sort out most of what is wrong Commuting. The effects of doing nothing, Bestival gone, No sponcer for Cowes week, Vestas/BAE/GKN head count reduction, OFFSTEAD red alert zone.Progress is essential to prevent IOW becoming a renound for charity shops, welfare state, retirement and poor education. PAGE 102 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Having had to use a ferry 4 times in the last week for hospital appointments with my mother ans university appointments with my daughter this is not only costly but also constrained with times usually long waits in Southampton for ferry back as timetable is all overy the place and not regular enough Employment in general on the iow. Ability to recruit to vital job roles in the hospital and in the schools and how a fixed link may improve these prospects. No Build it ASAP !!! Cost of using the fixed link must be much cheaper than existing ferries for Islanders in particular Time to travel. Even though i used the hover, it would take me an hour to get home because of poor bus availabilty to and from bembridge and also had to wait for the hover. Shame i could not commute to my previous workplace as i had some good relations with my customer. Being a mum of two, incould not possibly spend that much time travelling. Removal of the ferry monopoly Cost and charging A full referendum should take place because I do not think the majority WANT a fixed link. Other ferries should be looked into, or just making the ferries we have be subsidised by the government would suffice. Costs Cost of use of an alternative option vs ferry costs No Attracting businesses to move here, financial incentives etc. The island and it's residents need hope Make it happen as soon as possible Expense Price Finances - cost to cross? "How much more does the island have to lose, before a fixed link is implemented. Councillors, open your eyes and see what's in front of them, the island is not prosperous, but dying of decay, lost revenues , tourism and that's just starters. " Everyone connected to the IOW whether live here, on the mainland or visit from time to time should be consulted Weather can restrict ferry travel .... Island is dying.... Needs a link asap. Positive effect on family life Affect on NHS Cost to the public Cost of ferry travel Employment The likely cost of using it, the likely effects of the loss of ferry operators No If the outcome is that there will be no tunnel then how to ensure the ferry costs and reliability are challenged and changed for all users!! "Cost of Travel Investment required Repayment period Cost in Tax increase if any" Equality of accessibility to all services on a par with the mainland Construction cost, cost to use, convenience of use, emergency services usage House prices. PAGE 103 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Economic benefits. Cost of ferries very high puts visitor off coming here, a fixed link would cost less per journey No Impact on areas of mainland where potential fixed could be sited. The government also need to treat the IOW the same as they do the Scottish islands with regards to subsidies and recognition of the unique issues faced by the IOW. Whether it will be financially viable and worth the set up costs. Realistically what benefits it will bring the island Employment No Cost Cost, time a waiting for ferries takes and the need to plan every journey. Manipulation of business and council by the ferry companies should be looked at and all parties allowed to express ALL their views in strictest confidence Education. .I have two children travelling to the main land daily Time and opening hours ect and toll fee Yes, where the tunnel would be sited along with the impact on the those living nearby No. General positive and negative effects, but inevitably the island needs better access options and get with the times. All the above are important, also effects on mainland, how to control traffic during busy periods Regenerate the Island by building a new garden City based on Science/Technology parks, We NEED 10,000 + new well paid jobs to pay for the council deficit the increase in jobs , the increase in tourists& the freedom for the islanders Relative costs compared to ferry services, including reduced price for IOW residents and frequent user discounts. No "The cost to the island due to not having a fixed link and the lack of investment because of this Also more access required due to contraction of our island health services To attract professionals to the island for healthcare and teaching jobs" How to cap ferry prices. Get it done. Stop the ferries from ripping us off. Funding Employment made easier Cost Security & surveillance on the fixed link. The lack of competition due to the Wightlink monopoly and the resulting fares mean competition would give both the residents of the IOW and very regular visitors like me much better value. Area of acsess should blend in with acsisting countryside to give as little impact but giving the maximum flow to and from to a main artery at both ends asap Increasing costs to travel to the mainland. Having no control of costs, Being in the hands of a cartel of ferry operators. Ferry links are not reliable. Wightlink is one of the worst transport companies I have had the misfortune to use. Cost is too high especially at peak travel. "Tunnel / road route Reliability of existing ferries Cost of current or possible future crossings PAGE 104 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Emergency services access to the Island (not just Police, but things like Bomb Squads)" Ferry reliability and high prices The future growth of the island and living standards Better & cheaper access for family to provide support to older relatives Regulation of Ferry Companies, capped fares regardless of being day returns, period returns or School holidays, increased sailings, 24 hour services, minimum of a sailing every hour and ease for other companies to compete fairly with existing Ferry companies Reliability, police and fire rapid response support, cost per household currently harder to live on the island due to supply of goods not here. "Average time and cost to major cities. E.G. London, Southampton, Bristol Job prospects " Probable increase in housing development and the consequential effect on AONB and green belt If not a fix link we should have a ferry service owned ,staffed, built by the people of the island.Travel too and the we are milked for money which goes into non Islanders pocket's. Impact on health not just healthcare services. Impact on employment not just 'business'. Cost to the local tax payer Cost over time. Unemployment and lack of opportunity for the youth on the island. Why not look at a bridge same as Severn and Skye crossings I just hate how we are held hostage by the ferry company's and can't use them 24 hours a day. Yes . The fact that the is,and desperately needs a fixed link or cheap regular ferries Priority for support to the island community in particular accessibility in going to the mainland Present Ferry Companies on the island should not be allowed to monopolise a new fixed link if there is 1 Keeping the cost as low as possible work on and off the island Prices for islanders and good deals to get the holiday makers over Islander residents should be able to travel cheaper than mainland visitors The amount of influance ferry companies have on council and tourist trade Economical Factors Toll/Fare pricing of the crossing and how the profits of the crossing would be reinvested locally. It would be a huge benefit for healthcare, there are specific facilities that are not available on the island and If someone is In a critical condition that requires something that is not available on the island then a tunnel would be a much more convenient method to get to southampton rather than having to fly the patient over. Effect on road wear n tare. I would prefer a walking only access route! Too many cars here already. Grid locked between 8-9.30 every morning No Public opinion and whether link is wanted by a clear majority of residents. Who pays for and decides on wording the study and are they unbiased. The impact of ferry costs on the wellbeing of the IOW - lowering tourism numbers, cost to islanders, effect on house prices, impact on businesses. I feel the financial development of the island is strangled by the ferry costs. "Cost to residents for travelling/working on the mainland. NHS resource distribution." Cost of using fixed link PAGE 105 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Remember that mainlanders have family on the Island. Should they be sick or in need of support. This may lesson the burden on IOW services. Locations for tunnel Infrstructure to cope on Island and mainland. Impact on Lymington Yarmouth crossing if the fixed link was built on the East side. Yes for sure I know of familys who's children etc are more do being sent over to mainland hospitals ,patients who need surgery sent to mainland hospitals as island can't cope and they declining g as don't want to get out of cars taxis etc to seat in boats after surgery ,they would rather just drive through so many reasons why it should be done maybe 10 years ago not as bad but it should be done now ,the island is declining the cost of getting of the island terrible but it's convenience and being able to just go Walking / cycling lane Benefits versus the cons of a fixed link for the island It would give us a choice of how we can get of the island. No The Isle of Wight is dying, I employ 10+ people, commute regularly to see customers but I'm considering moving myself, business and family to the mainland all because of the ferries. Availability of funding, possible timescale for tunnel if approved, long-term economic benefit If a tunnel is proposed where will it be sited? Being able to work on the mainland if required. Being able to visit hospital for appointments. Visit friends and family at short notice. The cost to islanders just for freedom of traveling to and from the mainland A bridge Don't involve our council Economics - and the way that island businesses are usually managed. The mindsets of those that do. The opportunity for people to find jobs is eased when there is a fixed link, current ferry services are too expensive when there are lower income jobs being sought. Cost Na How to improve the life chances of teenagers. Security with the prisons Combination of fixed link and alternative energy National security and the ability of emergency services to respond to Island emergencies ( prisons, fires , disasters,etc.) Cost of building and how it would be achieved. number of young people who leave and never return due to poor links, so unsustainable aging population ferry costs versus toll costs The quicker the better :0) "Who pays for the study. Who carries it out I.e. It must be seen to be truly independent. How much will it cost. Cost of tunnel. Who pays for it. Charges for using it. Q8 is silly in terms of ranking. All could be considered to be of equal importance." Social isolation Portal locations. Ferry companies' duopoly. Lots of people are trapped on the island not being afford to see their family on the mainland due to ferry prices. Ferry prices Current sea pollution from ferry companies PAGE 106 Question 10 These are responses from those answering NEGATIVE to At the present time before the study is undertaken, would you consider the prospect of having a road tunnel "Fixed Link" from the Island to the mainland as positive, or negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight? • • • • • • • • • • • • Congestion will increase, crime rate is likely to increase, ferry staff will loose jobs ect I have lived on the island all my life and it is home, the pace of life is just a little bit slower and relaxed and having read the blurb there no way of proving the benefits or the cost and even if it could be I believe the island should stay an island The infrastructure of the island cannot take it. Crime is already increasing here due to lack of police, so this will increase, environment, one road in / out will always get jammed, think Hauling Island and Poole. The squirrel population will be decimated, fly tipping, etc. I live,work and relax on the island and even though I hate the sea when more than flat I plan journey accordingly - verge of hysteria but still would not have a fixed link. There is a clue in the title ISLE of Wight. The Island is unique exactly because it is an island. A fixed link would make it a suburb of the Mainland. I do not want to live in a part of Greater Hampshire. "TOO MUCH TRAFFIC LESS JOBS FOR ISLAND PEOPLE LOSS OF ISLAND IDENTITY" Why waste time and money on this study when there are more important issues currently affecting the Island residents and economy with all the latest budget cuts??? This will not solve the costs of the ferry's, or the time to cross. Tolls will have to be in place, travel time will be no different when travelling from one side of the island to the other to go in the tunnel. It achieves nothing. More competition from ferry's is the way forward For all the reasons given above. It is mostly people originally from the Mainland who moan about the ferries and support the idea of a fixed link or those attracted by lower house prices who want to live here but keep higher paid jobs on the mainland. Encourageing businesses to operate here with realistic salaries would enable more young people to stay or relocate to the island without destroying the unique experience of living on an island. As someone who has lived on the Isle of Wight my entire life, I appreciate the quietness and relatively quiet roads that the Island has. The island is one of the few places that I have ever been to that has the perfect balance of greenness and clean air that is rarely found in small pockets of other counties. A fixed link would greatly increase the traffic to the island, bringing over large quantities of people in their vehicles daily and therefore making the roads more congested. The current state of many of the roads, combined with the heavier flow of traffic that the fixed link would bring, would put the Island's already limited budget and Island Roads under serious strain. The current ferry system acts as a deterrent for people bringing their cars over (due to the expense), therefore encouraging them to use the high-speed ferries and therefore make use of the Island's public transport, again easing congestion on the roads whilst benefiting Island transport businesses. A fixed link would also bring unnecessary pollution to the Solent, whether by its building, or by its subsequent traffic flow; the visual and sound pollution would also reduce the quality of the north of the island, deterring tourists from this area when this is one of the areas that needs tourism the most to thrive. It is an island and should remain as such PAGE 107 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • One of the best bits about the island is that it is an island. If there was a fixed link then it sort of loses its island status. The ferry is part of the tourist experience, for a lot of tourists it is exciting and makes their holiday that little bit more special. The stagnation of development into any other strategies for improving economic & social aspects of the island will be caused as soon as there is any investigation into a fixed link, this inertia on the part of any investors or business based on instability/ uncertainty on the future direction of the island will have a detrimental impact and will hinder any alternative drives for growth due to an idea that has no benefit to residents or boroughs impacted by the cation of a fixed link, unles 'buy in' is secured from neighbouring communities & local authorities - the the idea of a fixed link is irrelevant and poses more of a delay to growth on the island rather than improving the situation unless our mainland counterparts are also in favour of the proposed link. Part of the islands attraction and charm, is that it's an island, all we need are subsidised ferries I believe almost everything that makes this island unique and beautiful would be severely compromised by a fixed link. The risks greatly outweigh the benefits Negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight. "Feel we are too close to major cities for impact of them to not be felt by a fixed link. Would we end up a suburb of Portsmouth or Southampton? Concerns for negative impact on island. Especially for environmental impact where tunnel would come onto island. Concerns that unique nature of island would be lost." "Increased traffic. Eventually ferry companies may decline leaving the bridge with a monopoly able to charge what they like. We live on an ISLAND. If you don't want to live on an island move to the mainland. " "Increased footfall on island that can't cope with the traffic it already has. There is already a complete standstill if something goes wrong. I suggest that you look into the ile de rai in France near La Rochdale always traffic issues as it's a tourist destination with a fixed link. I'm also concerned about where the exit for this fixed link will be and the landscape that will be spoilt by it." It makes the island unique not being easily accessed and keeps it a special place to live and to visit The island is too small to carry a large volume of traffic, with ferry fees it hinders a lot of vehicles coming over. From the tourism aspect I am sure that for a lot of families espescially children, getting the ferry is part of the excitement of going on holiday "Too much traffic roads cannot cope now Crime will go up and harder to trace capture criminals" There are pros and cons to living on this Island. Both are fundamentally the result of its more isolated nature. I believe the pros far out weigh the cons, hence I choose to live here. A fixed link may seem like the remedy to some of the Island's frustrations, but everything else that makes this Island so wonderful will be destroyed in the long run as it becomes a commuter belt suburb of Portsmouth or Southampton, or worse still a ghetto (like Gosport). Fundamentally it's about personal choice. If you don't like the Island for what it is then go live somewhere you do like. There are plenty of options. But don't deny the rest of u that choice! There are too many cars and not enough roads. The island cannot possibly cope with an increase in traffic. It is not coping with the current volume. Environmental impact is another. There are too many other negatives to write here. Let's have a study on fair ferry fares, not a fixed link. no place suitable to build this could ruin our current arrangements no support on mainland towns PAGE 108 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • no chance of getting funding silly idea unlikely to ever come to anything will be a white elephant other things more important I am against any form of a permanent fixed link. People consider living on the IOW should first do their own study regarding various pro's & con's as you would do in considering moving anywhere. We are all aware of austerity within the UK, priorities for new hospitals, roads, transport, schools and other infrastructure shall be implemented before under taking this study for obvious reasons. Although the ferries are frustrating and expensive, I would like the Island to stay an Island and there not to be a fixed link. "Flood of day tripper traffic - roads not adequate Hotel revenues will decrease, as holiday makers pop across from mainland south coast holidays rather than incorporate 2 or 3 days in an island hotel in their itinerary " will be to expensive could ruin our island crazy pipe dream cost:benefit ratio is so negative better things to spend money on unwanted A large sum of money to gamble could ruin our island The IoW will become a dormitory suburb for the surrounding cities doubtful anyone will be prepared to pay for this will cost to much nowhere suitable to build this be careful what you wish for! I have lived here all my life and really enjoy island life. Our roads are in an awful state and too busy as it is and I believe the extra traffic will only make them worse. Also there is no evidence that the fixed link will be any cheaper than a ferry return and it would take years to build and alot of money which I believe would be better spent elsewhere. it's unwanted SEE 9 ABOVE also question 8 REQUIRES answers to factors I don't consider relevant if one is NOT IN FAVOUR OF A FIXED LINK, WHICH I AM NOT! People who like living on the Isle of Wight do so because it is an island, like say the Isle of Man or Channel Isles. I have no wish to live in a suburb of Portsmouth or Southampton. I love getting on the ferry, particularly when I am returning to the Island. Having lived in the North East and used the Tyne Tunnel, and in London using the Blackwall Tunnel, you can keep your tunnels. The Island will become an suburb of Southampton or Portsmouth. will cost us for years to come The island is perfect without this monstrosirty wasting peoples' time will be overpriced pipe dream, never going to happen I get a very good season ticket for travel, that won't continue if a link is built nowhere suitable to build this noboby will pay for this My main issue is mentioned in the box above. I believe other existing issues need attention before this. Our road structure would need changing all over the island PAGE 109 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Influx to the island may be high to sustain environment on island. If ferries were cheaper & more efficient they would provide positive benefits to travel. not wanted will spoil our beaches ferries will be cheaper better to spend money elsewhere will be too expensive "I think your use of some phrases is biased towards your own view, eg respecting the wish to be an isolated population (pre-judging that Islanders consider themselves isolated); and suggesting that to get the ""correct"" information the IOW Council needs to carry out a study; etc. I understand that, after working in the Public Sector for the best part of 30 years, if you want to build a tunnel, and you manange to get the backing of the authorities, public opinion sought by the authorities will either be ignored or manipulated into backing the plans. I am not giving my details, not because I am ""hiding"", but becuase I don't know who you are and don't trust you with it. Oddly, question 8 assumes that I endorse a feasibility study, which I specifically did not at question 7. I have therefore ranked the headings consecutively, and meaninglessly, just to get over this anomaly" Part of the attraction of the Isle of Wight is that it is an island and that you have to get a car ferry or high speed passenger ferry to cross the Solent. It is all part of the positive experience and there fore an essential part of promooting Isle of Wight to tourists. nowhere suitable for this nobody will want to pay for this mainlanders will be against it There are so few areas of such beauty left, I don't see why the IW should sacrifice this to appease people who want ...well all the perceived benefits they list. If the IW is too expensive to reach / remote / lacking in those aspects, just go somewhere else to find them. All we need to do is make the ferry service better. Simple. not wanted I cannot see that a road tunnel wold benefit the I.W. The Island would come to a stand still with all the traffic that would just be able to pop over, the traffic is bad enough now, it would be built up back to the mainland. The roads wouldn't cope, they are so bad now. People wouldn't stay on the island but just visit, and go straight back. We are an Island! Don't want it we are an island and should remain an island. I fear that the Island would not have the capacity to deal with the increased numbers of Day Trippers that a fixed link would encourage. I do not believe increased spending on day visits will outweigh the potential loss of longer accommodation spending. Jobs will also face competition from mainland applicants.The Island could become a dormitory for South Coast cities and towns. not needed or wanted I don't want this forget millions, this will cost billions unwanted eyesore an unnecessary expense I think it would ruin our island I do not feel I need to explain my comment any answer is never going to productive as the question is loaded in favour of a tunnel Too much traffic, increase in commuters living on island working elsewhere, environmental damage. PAGE 110 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • We have enough riff raff here already we have a sparse police force that could not sustain the policing We are an island. Cheaper ferrys would be a more viable and realistic option. The billions that it would cost to build a bridge or tunnel could be better spent on redevelopment and healthcare. The roads will not be able to cope with excess traffic And more crime Will spoil the Island a link will spoil the island not wanted here not for me! Will never get built will be overpriced will be dear than crossing now mainland cities wont want it a non starter "It's special because of its not linked. You wouldn't put a link bridge to the Galápagos Islands just to make it easier to visit! more Ferries and cheaper ferries is the only answer as they also add to the pleasure of this special undamaged part of Great Britain." terrible idea, the reason people choose to live and visit the island is that it is an island. Any fixed link is negative and totally undesirable. An island is an island. Please leave it that way. The reason the Island is so quaint and peaceful is because there is no fixed link and so why change it to make it just like everywhere else? If people don't like Island life, they should move to the mainland. "AS STATED IN 9 (above). I would also suggest that anyone who desires to be part of the greater Portsmouth / Fareham / Waterlooville conurbation, should move across the Solent to fulfill their dream. I also question the motives of Mr. Feeny in this proposed project. This is a man who has a very dubious business history and is obviously nailing his colours to this project in a last-ditch attempt to make his fortune by being involved in the project management and construction of this fixed link. The IOW council should most certainly not allocate any of its precious resources to such a feasibility study. " This has been thoroughly explored in the past with 'Remain an Island' the repeated result. Why must you keep re-exploring until you hope to get your result. You would not then have another poll to make sure it was the answer! I believe there would be increased traffic chaos (see Hayling Island in summer), more crime and years of building chaos. LEAVE THE ISLAND AS AN ISLAND - IF YOU DON'T WANT TO LIVE ON AN ISLAND - GO TO THE MAINLAND! where will it go without spoiling our island will ruin my future nowhere to put this without spoiling views could ruin this island will divide the island a pipe dream no good will come from this link there is nowhere suitable to put it! will cost billions a) A huge amount of our money will just be wasted if this even gets to the point of considering a survey, all you need to do to know that it will not work is try to drive to Portsmouth along the South Coast between 7.00am and 10.00am and again between 3.00pm and 7.00pm, or from Lee on Solent to Fareham at any time. b) It will be neither cheaper nor less costly than using a ferry and it may well increase the potential for crime PAGE 111 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • and increased traffic on our roads. c)Money wasted on this could be used to help the vulnerable. Remember the music festival in Newport a few years ago where one incident in a field caused all the traffic to halt for 12 hours. Now consider that on a daily basis in the summer with tourism trying to come and go. Nice idea but completely impractical. I live alongside Fairlee Road. the house already vibrates with the volume of traffic which is already much higher than in previous decades. However I enjoy living in a clean environment with less traffic pollution than on the mainland. The air even smells nicer here. I enjoy the added security of living on an island, with little major crime due to the fact that criminals would have to wait for a ferry to depart. There is less car theft here. I dont want to see bigger roads built on this beautiful gem of an island - you would need bigger roads to cope with the extra traffic. If people dont want to live on an island..move! simples. Did above NO will deverstate the island be no going back I would be concerned about an increase in the volume of traffic visiting the Isle of Wight. We would be fixed to the mainland and would therefore would end up with mainland problems The Island should remain to be an island. I believe it will lose it authentic appeal if we become joined to the mainland. I was born on the Island, but have also lived on the mainland and abroad. Yes, the ferries are expensive...they are what we need to be putting our efforts into...reducing the cost of ferry travel...not a fixed link. unwanted there is nowhere suitable will spoil our island Crime will go up. And our roads aren't ready for more traffic no chance of this being built "My opinion is that it would be the ruination of the IW. The exit point on the IW will destroy a whole village / town area. If the feasibility study were to shew that a twin tunnel were to be the best option, that would be two 70 feet openings, plus the width of the concrete sections, the ventilation tunnel and maintenance tunnel. The approach / exit roads sections would have to slope down to around 300 feet in under 1 1/2 miles and would have to extend approx 1/2 mile from the tunnel exit / entrance, or put another way 1/25th of the depth of the Isle of Wight, from the proposed landing point at Whippingham Road " this has been discussed for over 100 years and still not happened, never will not wanted nor needed no-one is willing to pay for this us islanders don't want it! The fact that that the Island is completely separate is what makes it unique and give it its own cultural heritage. It is what also makes it attractive as a holiday destination. The increase in beggars and homeless will increase as aleady getting bad.Too many people/tourists in one go the island isn't equipped enough to cope with that volume of people. The main reason for living here is the slower pace of life which would be lost if extra traffic were encouraged. Also roads are already overcrowded and to make them capable of carrying extra traffic would ruin countryside and affect wildlife even more than is happening now. Overall ease to get drugs over here ,thieves to come over then get back increase in crime generally then disappear to mainland unwanted for here will cost silly money will not save any money this is not for our island PAGE 112 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The traffic will be awful and the island will completely loose its charm, and therefore loose business (tourism) and younger generations won't want to live here anymore. It's a ridiculous idea, PLEASE don't do it! Gridlock on roads , many roads still full of pot holes and not well maintained the risk of becoming an offshoot of Portsmouth/southhampton+ losing island's identity "The environmental impact of building the tunnel as well as the extra traffic and pollution would out way any benefit to the island population The special feel of the island would be lost and reduce tourism." The island could not cope with the extra traffic. There could be more crime and generally become overcrowded. That pace of life is a little slower here and needs to remain that way,as it is the reason a lot of visitors come here. Too much traffic too many idiots already Island infrastructure can't cope with current levels of use, encouraging people over here, while great for tourism and business, could have a hugely detrimental affect on those here every day. It would ruin the atmosphere of the island, we would have more day trippers which would cause congestion. We feel safe here and I believe crime would go up as at the moment it is difficult to get off the island so perpetrators are caught quickly. "We live on an Island and have a laid back attitude to the hustle and bustle that most people are used to. We choose to do this. I did this for health reasons. Most people do not want the pressure of mainland life, which is why we moved here. A lot of people on the Island are self employed. We have created our own jobs, we are not relying on employers to provide jobs. If people don't want to live on an Island they should live on the mainland. We choose to be an Island. Once you take that away, it can never been given back. What we need is better health care and better education funding. A fixed link won't give us this. It won't bring more teachers. It would cost the government less money to subsidise the ferries or pay our teachers and doctors more. People often ask me if i feel 'cut off'. Yes, thankfully and no, because there is the internet and ferries when I need them. The main reason I don't want a fixed link is that our guests come to our guest house and say they breath a sigh of relief when they get on the ferry and leave their cares behind them. That is why we live here and that is why our guests come here." because it is a waste of money and time. Why would people stay here as a tourist destination if they can drive home the same day It would change the island forever. If residents don't like it currently then relocate to the mainland. The island is an island and is the main reason I live here the tunnel will take away what island life I'd all about . The Isle of Wight will no longer be unique and may actually lose those things that make it so attractive. forget this silly idea Leave the island an island The Isle of Wight is an Island that is not attched to the maintain which is what makes it so unique. Getting a ferry over is part of the fun for tourists (tourism being a huge part of the Island). The Island in general also has a relatively low crime rate compared to other parts of the UK and building a tunnel could change that. Also where would the entrances to the tunnel be built? Would it involve displacing residents? And would it decrease the health and quality of life of the residents who are situated near the tunnel? Also building a tunnel cannot be good for the environment. And also, exactly where are the council getting the money for this change? I'd far rather they put it into the health care or educational systems that the Island so desperately needs. PAGE 113 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I have been here just over one year the amount of accidents there have been in that time astounds me just think how many more there would be if there was a tunnel these roads were made for horse and cart please see to the road safety first I came here to live longing and get away from the traffic and diesel fumes pollution is the worst thing you can have for your health please take heed a crazy idea I want to keep this island special no fixed link for IoW I am against a fixed link unwanted spoil our beautiful views Where Is the island getting the money to build a fixed link? the schools on the island are failing and the ones that aren't failing are struggling! Surely the money should go on the schools as it is the future of the islands people and then when the schools are back up then re-think about the fixed link! Yes I understand that it will help in the future for people who will commute but how are the future adults going to get a job at all let alone on the mainland if they havnt got the qualifications they need because the schools are inadequate? No point in have a fixed link. I do have family on the mainland that do travel over too see us but they have no problem with using the ferry other than the price. It is an island and that's what makes it unique. Take that away and it has nothing to set it apart from the mainland - literally! The island roads can not cope with extra traffic. They are in a bad state. Who would pay for the link. Negative: It would ruin the island if it was linked to the main land. Any tourism that is left will go as it will be basically part of the mainland. Some people come to the island for the purpose that is separate and not attached. I understand it would make travel easier as the ferry is expensive and emergency travel to hospitals would be more practical but I think it will have more negative effects than positive and ruin the feel of the island. If people don't like it on the island then move away instead of ruining it for those who love it here. The Island is so beautiful if you really pay attention to it and linking it to the mainland makes it no longer a proper island. It will be devastating if the link happens. Would bring more road traffic to Island which is already a chronic problem A fixed link in way, shape, or form, will be hugely detrimental to the island. It will be the ruination of everything that makes the island such a wonderful and unique place to live. The ability to have free passage to the island will bring all manner of undesirable elements from the mainland to use and abuse what we islanders hold dear. It's a waste of money will probably end up dearer than the ferries will end up a white elephant because nobody is prepared to pay for this unnecessary will ruin the beauty of our island Potential to increase criminal activity This proposed study is a waste of money. There is nothing wrong with using a ferry service if you live on, or wish to visit, an island. The issue is the cost of the ferries. This would only be resolved by a third operator, which could be in the form of a tunnel, a bridge or most cost effectively a ferry service. This problem does not require a survey nor a feasibility study, nor does it require the massive investment of building a tunnel. Any widespread support for such a tunnel is predominantly based on the current ferry fares. If the ferries were cheap there would be little appetite for an alternative. It is a shame that Sealink was not bought out by the local authority on privatisation. There is precious little money in the public coffers, it should not be wasted on the ludicrous costs of a feasibility study for an unnecessary and unfeasible tunnel. PAGE 114 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Island is special as a proper Island unlike others that already have a fixed link part of the reason I moved over here was its quietness compared to the mainland and hoards of weekend tourists is not what i would like. Think maybe some of the Islands many moneybags 2nd homeowners would up sticks and move away to somewhere else There are many factors both positive and negative that a fixed link will bring. The cost will denote if it will be a positive to Island tourism. The larger of the two will be a negative to Island businesses. Of course it would be easier for Island businesses to trade effectively on the mainland, the same will be true for larger cheaper mainland companies to operate in the Island. Crime rate will go up,keep us as an Island bring the ferry cost down It will make the island just an extension of the mainland . It would not help the island A fixed link is not wanted or needed. It is a bind getting things delivered over here but for many people they choose to live here because it is NOT the mainland - it has the tranquillity not found over there. Those who want the way of life offered on the mainland should live there and I am sure they will see that the benefits of having easier travel are outweighed by the feeling of safety and a more relaxed way of life. At the moment Newport cannot even cope with local traffic so what on earth will happen with the influx of day trippers from the mainland Would need much more spent on infrastructure and schools and more hospitals to be able to cope with more people being able to live and commute to mainland Part of the beauty and appeal of the Isle of Wight is the fact it's an island. Taking a short ferry ride to visit it can be expensive but it's also part of the excitment. A fixed link would take away part of how special the island is Don't want this Very unnecessary Ruins the island Unnecessary expense "The island will loose its unique chrecter as Island and will become overwhelmed by traffic " it will destroy the meaning of an island While I thinknit would be good for tourism and business in general I believe it would also bring traffic congestion and an undesirable element from the mainland which could potentially increase serious crime. completely unnecessary we don't need this unnecessary we cannot afford this Just feel that we are a island and should stay this way! People come to the isle of Wight due to unspoilt beautiful safe unique place and feel the fixed link will damage this a silly idea we cannot afford this folly nowhere suitable to site this I don't want to see the island bought into being part of the mainland. It could become that locals can't afford to buy a house of there own here. We should stay being a Island. I have found that people from the mainland would be in favour with it. True Isle of Wight people of a mature age don't want the island to change. I am afraid to say if oveners want a fixed link then they should go back to the mainland and leave our island as it is wasting money The island roads are already congested the island hospital and doctors surgeries cannot cope. waste of money PAGE 115 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Keep the Island an Island. Transport network would never cope. No financial gains for Island businesses. will end up dearer than present fares will be no cheaper than now! It's an Island - we don't want to be part of the mainland thank you nowhere is suitable will be overdeveloped chaos total and utter looms when any linkage is built we have very poor infrastructure and little experience of the cosmopolitan urban ism it will bring. I feel the island has a uniqueness that would be spoilt if it was connected permanently to the mainland. nobody is prepared to pay for it will ruin the island very easy for me to commute to college at present, this will spoil it! nowhere suitable to place it Volume of traffic and crime. We are an Island and that has beautiful advantages. will spoil the island overpriced The island is a special place and with a fixed connection will lose some of its identity. Maintaining its separation is key to its future as a destination for tourists and residents. There is nowhere else like it, let's keep it that way and keep the islanders proud. We will no longer be an island, we will be joint and easy to access and the excitement of a ferry will no longer be there... on the other hand it might force the ferry company to lower the prices for islanders... The island is unique for being not connected to the mainland present system works perfectly well As before the infrastructure is not suited to more people living here than there already are and having a fl will give people the idea that island is just another part of the mainland. The Island is special for being an Island. So no to a Fixed Link of any kind. The isle of wight is beautiful it like going back in time I think a tunnel is going to overcrowd the island and make it lose its appeal Destroys the idea of it being an island, hate the idea of adding tunnels or bridges. Increases risks of prisoners escaping easier, tedious long horrible building work to be done. NO. More people. The island has enough scum here as it is "The Island community and dynamic is unique. I do feel that the physical separation from the mainland is a large factor in the way in which people and communities here interact. Over the time we have lived here ( since 1978 ) I have always been aware of (us) Islanders being very supportive and interested in one another. . there is a real sense of belonging -and leaving and returning. We have the opportunity to 'reset' to the slower pace of life during the homeward bound ferry trip - a welcome antithesis to the stress and clamour of the mainland. Our Island children have a different perspective and approach, and of the many who have gone on to work all over the world, we can be justly proud of the wonderful IOW ambassadors they have proved to be ! We may not rate highly in the rankings for education, but we do have much to offer in terms of attitude, creativity and a willingness to embrace new concepts and ideas that in itself fosters a tangible force to be reckoned with. Tourism is vitally important to our Island economy . . . to begin and end a holiday with a ferry journey makes for a holiday that has anticipation, excitement and a real connection PAGE 116 with the sea; which sets us apart from the many other attractive areas that we are competing with. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Crime -the ease and speed of access and anonymous escape does not seem to have affected us in anything like the proportions suffered by our near neighbours on the mainland . Long may that last. Please note this is my honest feeling regarding our home, despite the added inconvenience and expense involved with ferry travel. We also run lorries to and fro the mainland on a daily basis ; the commensurate costs and difficulty in our own scheduling, driver's hours and ongoing adjustments that have to be made, are part of what we have always accepted when we made the choice to settle here. " silly idea unwanted An island is an island. If we have a fixed link we cannot call ourselves and island any more. The local people like being separate from the mainland and are proud to be island people. A fixed link would take that away. I am also concerned about border security. Anyone could drive over on the middle of the night, cause trouble and then either leave or worse still, find a place to hide out. At least paying to get on a ferry and then the crossing itself would give the police time to get to the ferry terminal and intercept any troublemakers before they can access the rest of the island and its people. Having lived on the Island for 22 years I believe an above/underground fixed link would diminish the way of island life. The cost and impact to the environment. The only positive would be access for emergency services I believe it would be bad for traffic management, pollution and many people who work for ferry companies would lose their job. The extra traffic on the Island would be very detrimental, how the pro group get to their figures on cross solent travel is ludicrous Land grab would destroy environment If peoples don't like living on an island and all that entails, they should move off it "I am a new resident to the island and we moved here because it was an island and do not feel that our island would benefit from a fixed link. Everything works just fine the way it is. I Hope and pray that it doesn't happen. " the island is unique. by having a fixed link will open the island will lose its appeal to families who wish to holiday on this relatively 'safe' island. the Island could be inundated with some who wish to cause disruption to a quiet place. I like the ferry, I love the Isle of Wight....no fixed link please We live on an Island & have those benefits. I live on an Island because I want to live on an Island. Trying to join it to the mainland makes those special things about being the Island disappear. I can't sensibly move to get these benefits of being on an Island elsewhere. Those that do not like these things can move to the mainland More crime, more cars, more pollution. "house prices becoming unaffordable and the impact on local businesses. Environmental damage and irreversible damage to the special nature of the island" I believe crime , prices traffic and congestion of people will be massively increased. See question 9 "A road tunnel is not the best option, ferries regulate the amount of people that can take their cars on/off the island and without that more people are bound to start using their cars more - meaning more traffic, more pollution and problems on our already clogged roads. Not to mention peak season and times like festival. PAGE 117 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I work as a taxi driver and a road link will ruin my business, as well as many others. " "I do not believe that building a fixed link would significantly reduce the cost of travel to the mainland which is presumably the main reason people want one.This would have to be paid for and estimates of cost are invariably wrong.Tunnel and Bridge tolls would be extortionate and would probably cost more or less the same as the ferry. It would also spoil the whole atmosphere of the Island turning us into another Gosport or Hayling.." The island will lose its special charm, there are more things in life than money!!! A fixed link would destroy what makes the island special. It would enable corporate firms to come in a wreck the positive independent business outlook we have on the isle of Wight. Traffic would clog every road with people traveling over damaging our roads and countryside. Island status and culture See answer to nine. How will our roads take the extra traffic. If we had a fixed link and it proved bad for the island could it be done away with? I believe part of the charm of the island is that it is an island. People that want a fixed link should move. Places like jersey and Guernsey all thrive on being an island. Skye changed when it had a link. I feel very strongly about not having a link. The cons out weigh the pros. - Too much to go in to detail on this survey. It is costs prohibitive. The island will see an increase in crime and still won't solve social deprivation. The way to turn the Idkand around is with a robust and well council. Using our high streets and selling our USP of being an Island. We are now swamped with traffic, I consider a fixed link would only make it worse, more cars, more people, more crime, more problems. "We choose to live on an island with all of its positive as well as negative issues. This would undermined by a fixed link." Waste of tax payer's money, maybe spend it on improving health care My concern is that a fixed link will make it easier for island residents to shop and work on the mainland so what will the incentive be for more businesses to be on the island. Also it will have a positive affect on travel times if you live close to the entrance and want to go somewhere on the mainland near the exit. If I lived in Yarmouth and wanted to go to the West Country and the tunnel is Ryde to Portsmouth, it will be quicker and easier to go by the ferry if that is still running! A tunnel is not going to be the 'miracle cure' that it is touted as. the problems we have are much more fundamental and deep-rooted. You would lose the island community feel of living on the island. It would become the same as the mainland. Change the nature of the island. Will no longer be an island. Danger to red squirrel population from greys. Increased crime. Reduced holiday destination potential/appeal. I believe the should stay an island that is acessed by ferries and NOT a road of any sort, this will simply turn it into an extension of the mainland that can be easily accessed by people with less than honorable intentions. The Isle of Wight is unqiue, I feel a fixed link would change the isle forever in a negative way. Hugely expensive to build and maintain a tunnel. Huge pain in the arse for islanders. Please see reasons in box for question 9. TO HAVE A LINK EITHER TUNNEL OR BRIDGE IS EVER DONE IT WILL RUIN IN THE BASIS OF THE ISLAND.IT WILL RUIN THE PEACE AND PACE OF THE ISLAND,WE LOVE THIS OUR HOME,THE TOURISTS COME AS THEY COME TO AN ISLAND ACROSS THE WATER,THATS WHAT THEY LOVE,ALSO CRIME WOULD INCREASE.ALSO THE COST OF THE LINK IT WAY ABOVE WHAT WE CAN PAY,WE SHOULD NOT WASTE OUR GOOD EARNED ,ONEY.SO NO LINK. PAGE 118 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It will flood the Island with traffic and cause undue and unsustainable stress on our current infrastructure. Although there are there would be undoubted advantages derived from a fixed link this must be weighed up against the psycological impact upon the existing population resulting from loss of "island remoteness". The study should include the "post bridge impact "upon the living environment of similar island populations where a fixed link has been provided, such as Skye. I feel it would ruin the experience of coming to the island, people like getting the ferry accross its all part of being on holiday on an island. I own a b&b in Shanklin and I think having a fixed link would geoerdise the dynamics of the island Possible effect on tourism as it would no longer have the same 'island' character. I would rather the same amount of money be spent on regenerating the Island with new iconic buildings, repairs and enhancements to the footpath system, etc. The Island is desperately in need of funding for regeneration, refurbishment and repair. The Island is attractive to visitors because it is "offshore" and there is plenty of greenspace, a fixed link would allow visitors to come for the day rather than staying in a hotel, eating in a restaurant etc. We would have lost our USP. Although travel to the mainland is expensive and time consuming, like most other residents I don't have to live here! If you don't like living on an island MOVE to the main land and don't ruin the island for everyone else. Overall a fixed link is likely to ruin unique and quirky feel to the island and destroy the reason most people like living here The rif raf can just drive here Lived on mainland for many years, feel crime will increase, also the novelty factor of travelling on a ferry for holiday would be spoilt Would commercialise and ruin the island Island has to much traffic as it is without a tunnel making it worse Nowhere to build it Negative, island already to crowded A fixed link would only benefit people in the vicinity of the access to the link. Increased traffic to the link would bring congestion. The cost, to me, far out weighs any other positives. There is so much improvement possible with the ferries, despite the fact that they are private companies. I grew up on the Isle of Skye whilst the road bridge was built which has many similarities: expensive sometimes poorly run ferries, impact on jobs / travel / tourism / access to healthcare etc, a private company built the bridge, charged a lot for it & then had to be bailed out by the government and the bridge crossing then subsidised. Cause traffic congestion and gridlock infrastructure not sustainable for the island We came over here for the slower pace of life you go over the mainland it's hectic and hardly anyone speaks English especially in Southampton so no thank you It would increase Traffic, Pollution, Population, Crime It would change the very nature of the island. It is set apart from the mainland which makes it special. It would be in danger of becoming a suburb of Portsmouth. With more traffic! I think a tunnel or fixed link will be a big mistake. we don't need it, we would be better off putting the resources into the ferry companies. The roads on the Island will be unable to cope with extra traffic of any kind, let alone an unlimitted number of vehicles arriving on a daily basis. Our islands roads cannot cope right now with the amount of traffic we have plus we have very little police and already too much crime in the towns a fixed link would just encourage more criminals to head over "The south coast has already seen property prices rise as a result of second home purchasers from London and the suburbs, meaning that local are precluded from being PAGE 119 able to buy in their own locality. The fact that ferry travel is longer than a road link does reduce the number of second homers buying on the island. If a fixed link is put in place, property prices on the island will rise, and we will see even more properties left empty during the week and winter. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A fixed link will not bring more people to work here. There aren't the industry and businesses here. It will mean that more islanders will commute across the Solent to work, leaving a shortage of skilled workers on the island. Because of it's location, the island will always be a tourist destination, so tourism will still remain its main industry. I do not think that the cost of the construction of a fixed link will lead to such an increase in revenue for the island that it will be worth the costs." The island road network could not cope. The Southern Railway planned a fixed railway link before WWII, running from a point north of Lymington to a point near Yarmouth, which was hardly the most direct link for travel to London and the Midlands, but a railway link would be better than a road link. I suspect that a railway link from Portsmouth to Ryde would meet objections from the Ministry of Defence - as the Admiralty tried to stop the extension of the Portsmouth line from the city centre to the harbour. "I think the reason for the island is popular with tourists is because it's an island. We would become an extension of the mainland. Who is going to pay for a fixed link?" The Island is an Island - its the only Island on the south coast and I choose to live here because of it - I can go anywhere else on the mainland Uk and not be on an Island the optiosn are limitless - once we have a fixed link things will change forever there is no going back The coast around the island consider to be Marine Conservation Area. The cost of the tunnel is expenseive, money should be put in Heath Services. Overcrowding because i believe the island roads will be come more congestive than they are now and it will bring trouble to island There will be so much more traffic, the island can't handle the traffic it has now. The Island is special to join it to the mainland would change it forever to the detriment to quality of life there will be no control over traffic coming to the island, the island road infrastructure does not have the ability to cope with unrestricted levels of traffic, currently traffic is at an unreasonable level 1 accident can grid lock Newport, during holiday times this increases, another problem is crime levels will rise as the island will be seen as a easy target, with very few police officers on duty at night, criminals will have a field day. "I live on a lovely island, yes it has its problems but so does most places. For me building a tunnel or bridge (whatever the proposed idea is) is ridiculous, disruptive and the money could be spent on building another hospital maybe, or considering sorting out the one we have. This ""fixed link"" is only beneficial to daily commuters which is a decision you make taking on a job over the mainland, but some people have made this decision without taking travel costs into consideration obviously. So that's why I'm against it because it's a group of individuals who want to save themselves a bit of money rather than think what the island REALLY needs." It will stop it being an island, crime will increase enormously and the increase in traffic will be unmanageable. The roads can hardly support the increase in traffic there has been PAGE 120 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • over recent years. Roads over the whole Island would need to be increased with the loss of countryside which is what draws many tourists for walking cycling etc. Also a big part of the excitement of coming to IOW is the ferry trip. "The island will become too over populated and that will cause more pot whole and new layouts of the roads to be built,cspemding even more amounts of our money. When people from the mainland come over the boats are tourist attractions as well as the island. If we loose the ferries we loose local islanders lively hoods and jobs. He island won't be as big as an attraction in the future years due to the whole nation and world keeping up with technology and new things, but if we stay as an island that is separate to the rest of the Uk and have that extra isolation, we are saving both are wildlife on and off land. Even due to the warm waters we are getting we should be receiving new aquatic life, which means more money of income from tourist wanting to visit. It's a terrible idea and won't help the island, but only destroy its perfect qualities that make it what it is. " We are an island. Being connected will ruin the authenticity of the island being an island. There is no need for a fixed link to the Isle of Wight, the ferry service we provide from wightlink and red funnel has worked for years, and it will still continue to work. Having a fixed link will ruin the environment and cause the crime rate to go up on the island and will also cause congestion on the roads. It's a pointless idea ... It won't work and how will it be built?! not needed! The best thing about the Island is how quiet it is relative to other area's of the UK. A road link would lose this quiet feel and may reduce the Island being seen as a holiday destination. The Channel tunnel is stil not financially viable, and look at the trouble it has brought. A tunnel or bridge would ruin the unique lifestyle of the island, unwelcome visitors would have easy access to the island. Other islands do not have tunnels or bridges, subsidise the ferries, and give grants to residents working on the mainland is a much cheaper and better idea. Makes travel too easy to the island. More road traffic on the already busy road. Don't want any more traffic. Island roads can't cope. The Isle of Wight is unique because we are a separated island. The council should look at adjusting/lowering ferry prices instead of a fixed link. It will cause more harm than good to Island residents, the environment and tourism industry. The Island will suffer greatly. Too many cars coming to the island. The island road network can't cope with the current traffic. Fixed link train option only, with direct trains to london and rest of the money upgrading the rail network on island. Crime, ease of access will allow for crime statistics to rise as there will be free access, at the moment we do not have as much crime as on the Mainland and I think that is due to accessibility as criminals know they will be held up at ferry terminals. Also people who want to live here choose to with the knowledge of the difficult of travel. Opening it up means our Island will be ruined as this will make it hot property fir developing and social overspill. The island roads cannot support any increase in traffic. A fixed link would lead to the island being used by mainlanders buying houses here and using them as a dormitory whilst still working on the mainland, local people not being able to compete with inflated house prices if this happens. We are an Island This is a very special area to live, it would always be lovely to be able to cross to the mainland faster and cheaper BUT it would kill the island as we know and love it and is never worth that. Things here are changing fast, progress is good but in the right way. Being an island is everything. PAGE 121 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • An emergency road link would be acceptable, however, controlling traffic would be a difficult task on an already saturated road network both sides of the solent. An affordable rail/monorail link would put sufficient pressure on a poorly regulated ferry service. waste of public money will be no cheaper than present crossings nowhere suitable to build will never happen will be to costly "I don't believe a fixed link will help the island. More crime and a shed load of more drugs! " nowhere suitable Island roads are at full capacity already. Should be monitoring arrival of excessive vehicles Worried about effects on already badly surfaced roads, increased waste due to increased people as well as pollution in towns and on the beaches. Making the island less exclusive and reducing it's charm, a big part of a holiday to the isle is getting here on the ferry. Also worried about the effect on house prices, and council tax increases to compensate for road degregation and increased need for waist desposal. Not to mention reduced jobs on the ferrys and The huge cost to build the thing in the first place. I believe that the charm of the island, the very thing that makes it a vacation spot would be destroyed with a tunnel. Part of the charm of the island is that it is has a rich history, one that is evident all over the island. The addition of a tunnel will change the make up of the island, introducing undesirables from the mainland who would take advantage of the islands open, friendly disposition. "The roads could not handle extra traffic as we do not have the infrastructure We are an island We have a choice to live here Ferries should be cheaper for residents " The charm and beauty of the Island is that it is an Island! A fixed link would be disastrous for the IW and Islanders. If you dont like living on the Island then clear off to the mainland to live and leave the Islanders alone in the Beauty and peacefulness of this wonderful IW. Thank you Fixed link would destroy the island identity. Would prefer a rail only (24 hour shuttle), as current road infrastructure is not suitable for higher density traffic. Because it would no longer be the island it is now, the island we know and love, the island I was brought up on. It would also cause job losses for the ferry companies, which would mean islanders out of jobs due to this reason. As comment above re tourism as well as residential & lifestyle appeal. I understand this can be limiting in other ways but believe the charm of being an island outweighs other factors. It would completely change the identity and ethos of the island as an island. The islands trademark feel should be celebrated and harnessed to improve tourism and money better invested in making it appeal to companies, creating jobs there. It is a haven and should be protected as such, as has always been it's history. A fixed link will cause an increase in crime, traffic chaos and the Island will become a dormitory for workers for London and the South Coast. It will always be expensive and islanders would still be held to randsom by the company that runs it. I don't feel there is a need for any type, of fixed structure between the mainland. as it would be very damaging to work prospects for many people. Because a fixed link removes the unequieness of the island. Being cut off from the mainland is what gives the island its ecosystem and this would destroy it PAGE 122 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It will connect us to the mainland, therefore taking away the independent community feel that we have here on the island. Also it will ruin the ferry services which are an important tourist attraction for people who come to visit the island, who may have never been on a boat before or visited an island. We are an island and I want it to stay an island. It would cost too much money which would be better spent on other things such as social care or social housing for island people. We do not want a fixed link !!!! We are an island for a reason I do not want to be a extension of the North island. I choose to live on an island. If we get a fixed link then I have to move to go live on a true island like the Isle of Man. I like the Isle of Wight being an island and the level lack of crime also that it is quieter I commute to Portsmouth for work. Portsmouth itself an Island, is densely populated, I would hate to live there. I worry that a fixed link would turn the Island into a suburb of Portsmouth. Once it is there it can't be taken away, Islanders need to think very careful about this. It will destroy the island. It will clog the roads up. People who work for the ferry companies will lose their jobs. What happens if the tunnel is shut off for emergency reasons? How will people travel then if there is no ferry or tunnel. Why fix something that doesn't need fixing. The island doesn't need tunnels or bridges or anything as stupid as that. It just needs fairer pricing strategies which Im sure can be sorted if Politicians actually did their jobs for a change and supported the people. And for those that want to whinge about fairs and the requirement of a tunnel, why live on the Island? Its a choice to be here. Housing prices are cheap compared to the mainland so I guess if you look at it that way its not actually all that bad. But then again people do like a good old moan.... it will ruin the present commuter routes crime is just manageable with the ferry being a barrier to travel. with a fixed link, scum would flood the area. pikeys and scouse gits everywhere. nowhere suitable to put it I've always said I never would bring up my kids anywhere else but the Isle of Wight and it scares me being joined and what it will bring for my children's future... more crime worse crime less jobs near home then making a commute across and being further and longer away from there own family's one day. Concerned that it would bring too much traffic and cause population boom for such a small Island. Already too much development going on. Would be better to have cheaper ferries for residents. Businesses will suffer The IOW education system was adequate enough for me to become a professional worker sustaining and island home. The fixed link will change the character of the island without being a cure all solution. Same reasons as I said above! I will consider moving to Cornwall if this happens and I have lived here all my life🏖Our Island will be taken over , over crowded and over used , it will loose its appeal and people won't want to holiday here! We will loose our nature etc , yes I will definitely consider a move to Cornwall as this will be quieter than the Isle Of Wight if they put a fixed link in! 😬😩 It wouldn't be a proper island anymore, the ferry is half of the fun of coming home and going away, it feels more secluded and it's nice to see college friends put the effort in to coming to see me. Rail link only. Promotes jobs, ie.- taxi, bus, rail, freight, tourism etc. Avoids traffic congestion. Inhibits opportunistic 'white van man' burglaries, because can't just drive on/off the island unchecked. An island is an island because it can only be accessed by boat Island's infrastructure is already struggling with volume of traffic. PAGE 123 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • nobody is prepared to pay for this More crime, traffic, cost....would take away our uniqueness, don't need to an extension of the mainland! nobody over here wants it! Too expensive; will bring in excessive numbers of people (and traffic) to live here beyond the capabilities of our current social services could provide for (including but not exclusively doctors; health care for the elderly; mental health care and disabled; and education) lack of affordable housing and jobs. With the instability of the land, e.g.. land erosion and expensive underpinning of roads I cannot understand how a fixed link tunnel would fare well for any length of time, especially factoring in the strong under currents I understand there are in the Solent. How would such an expensive project be funded in our current financial climate? People love visiting because its an island - that means getting on a ferry to cross the water! I also disagree with a fixed link due to the fact that infected wild animals would be able to cross bringing in diseases that our local wild animals are presently clear of. House prices/rent will rise to a rate that is not affordable to people on the Island. Most people will not get a raise in wages (self employed, public sector) The Island depends a lot on tourism. Have you ever tried to get to a sandy beach on the Mainland if you live in Surrey or Hampshire? 2 hour queue to the nearest ones. You try it once, and NEVER again. Now you give the Mainland the option of coming here on a cheap ticket through a tunnel. What will you get? Congestion! Go to Hayling Island on a sunny day, or West Wittering, they have only one way in and out, and it is HELL! A tunnel will ruin the Island, and ruin tourism, putting many people out of jobs. The roots & traditions of Island life will be lost in over population & social intergration wishful thinking as nobody will pay for this The amazing amount of disruption that even Island Roads undertaking the PFI demonstrates to me that the Island would be brought to its knees by any major construction project such as this. Moreover, I fail to see where the finance could possibly come from. The Government isn't going to stump up the money, having enough problems with HS2 and the Heathrow expansion. Plus, I can't see any businesses rushing forward with the considerable amount of private finance that would be needed, there's just not enough in it for them. will be overpriced silly idea The current ferry system limits the number of vehicles that can visit the island on a day return basis. A tunnel will most likely allow too many vehicles to cross and overload the island roads which are already very congested. Plus easyer access to the island will incourage more people to move to the island and increase house prices. Too many cars "Although the existing routes to and from the island are not ideal, consideration primarily should concern the beauty and the individuality of being an island. I coomute to Gosport daily and nobody ever remembers that Portsmouth is essentially an island but due to the roads in and out it just seems like it's nothing special. I am also concerned that the level of crime and drugs would certainly be more accessible and will rise as a result, and with the aging demographic currently living on the island this is not a good thing. Lastly, I believe that getting to the beaches in the summer would be impossible and would likely have an adverse affect on tourism as visitors would be no better off than staying in Bournemouth where it is commonplace to search for hours looking for appropriate parking, not to mention even with the current PFI road improvements, the infrastructure would still not be sufficient for the mass influx of daily visitors. The Isle of Wight council are seeing more and more cut backs, can we really afford to set aside essential money for this costly and pointless exercise?" PAGE 124 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • More mainlanders coming to the island, could be hired for jobs when islanders are missing out. More traffic and congestion Island doesn't need a fixed link, part of the joy of living on the island is being cut off from the mainland. If the ferry is that much of an issue then move to the mainland. All visitors I speak to think part of the holiday charm of coming to the island is the ferry crossing. If your able to drive straight through a tunnel to the island it's no longer an island. If a fixed link is built it would probably cost more to use than the ferries in order to recoup the 100s of millions of £s it would cost to build. Waste of time, bit like this survey! Question 8 is pointless as you can't give the same number twice, none of them are important if your anti a fixed link. To many vehicles coming to the island, at least with the ferries vehicles are delivered at about 300 per hour with a fixed link could be more like 3000 per hour. I feel there the benefits would not be enough to justify the expense and potential risk involved It's a quiet island that's safe. Want to keep it that way.. boats should be cheaper for iow residents. And also generally lower in cost for all. But a tunnel just means bad news Although it would probably improve the travel to and from the island I think it would lose its identity. I feel safe when I am home here where as on the mainland I feel less safe, I believe the crime rate would increase. It would be more advisable to regulate the ferries. If this could be done a fixed link would not be needed. Environmental issues as aforementioned. This is an island. Keep it that way. "I choose to live on an Island with all the advantages and disadvantages. I weighed this up before returning to the Island. The noise, infrastructure to support the bridge or tunnel and extra traffic as seen on Hayling Island on sunny weekends will convert this beautiful Island to hell. " The red squirrels will be fought out by grey squirrels. Traffic will increase. The island will be very busy due to more tourists and may possibly make current residents move away what is now a quiet, lovely countryside may soon be turned into a busy, polluted city if there is a tunnel. ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION FIRST. Fixed link is a bad idea because the island cannot handle more cars, they say that it will be low cost to cross but how will they maintain the bridge? How will the pay the toll operator? How will it be cleaned? "Everyone who works for Red Funnel, Wightlink and Hovertravel will be made redundant if a ""fixed link"" is actually built, which will mean the total unemployment rate on the Isle of Wight, as well as across the South Coast of England, will increase dramatically. Also, it is called the ""Isle of Wight"", meaning it is an island, meaning you need a ferry to get there, we don't want the island becoming like the Isle of Sheppey now do we?! Also, the ""fixed link"" would have to be a toll road each way, so would it actually end up being any cheaper than using the ferry services? What if there is a serious road accident on the ""fixed link"", and it is closed for several hours, trapping people on the island and the mainland? At least if a ferry is suspended, there are five other options..." I don't believe it would provide any greater long term benefit for the island as one. I do believe we would turn into what Cornwall experiences during summer.. a constant traffic jam influx of vehicles.. housing prices would rocket therefore prove further difficulty for new homeowners.. therefore loading more strain onto the social supported-reliant lifestyle. As for the island environment.. greenbelt would be paved over for the purpose of greed. I would support 24hr ferry services (seems there's options already there) alongside the feasibility of introducing an island/government supported air public service obligation route to Southampton airport at least.. use bembridge or sandown airport.. or even consider seaplanes! The hovercraft is unique commercial service in the whole world. Current ferry companies provide islanders preferred rates which is appreciated. PAGE 125 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Maybe consider authority funded passenger only water connections with large mainland parking to promote less carbon tourist footprint. I'd also like to see the island look towards replacing the trains with 24hr trams that would connect between more towns.. better for environment, local employment opportunities and updating our island image. Use existing train lines and connect the island attractions for easy flow for all locations to benefit. Just think tunnel or bridge fixed link idea would bring more of a negative impact than what we could do and be without it. Because the island is beautiful because it is not connected to the mainland. we are an island not part of mainland I chose to live on the island to be disconnected from the mainland and in a different enviroment. A fixed link would destroy the sense of freedom and excitement of travel. Ferrys are a perfectly suitable way of travelling to and from the island and they bring in a major income to the benefit of the island In a time when people and that's working people are struggaling financially and the healthcare system is about to crumble I think spending money on a fixed link is rediculose. I just feel like if you don't want to live on a Island than move? Having to catch a ferry to get here is all part of the uniqueness of he Isle of Wight. Maybe because I'm someone that can't afford to travel or go on holidays boat prices don't really effect me however why when choosing to live on a island do people not consider this before they move? As for people moaning about there not being enough decent jobs. I work for minimum wage and I would rather be poor, worm for minimum wage and live on this beautiful island. People like the island because it is that. Having a permanent link will take away its uniqueness. The current transport infrastructure would not cope with an increased free flow of traffic. The Island should remain just that. People coming here and/or moving here know that so shouldn't complain We are and island so should stay as an island. Yes ferry prices can be expensive but if you choose to live on an island then its something you should consider. If you want to be able to go hear there and everywhere quicker and more frequently then the isle of wight and living on an island shouldn't be for you. 100% negative! it will bring crime, gangs and scum to our peaceful island. if you want to build a tunnel build one to Ireland not the island! Traffic will increase, the number of people inhabiting the (already cramped) island will increase, there will be more pollution and waste, the number of red squirrels will decrease and prices will increase. We are an ISLAND for a reason. A unique detachment from the hubbub of mainland life. We have a more balanced, safe, peaceful and chilled way of life where crime is thankfully low. Not everything is about money. If people don't like being cut off from the mainland then leave! We don't need a fixed link. An island is an island for a reason and there is plenty of space if people want to move off. It'll attract crime. Crime rate higher, pollution higher, house prices lower, strain on the health sector damaging, housing over crowded, schools and eduction poorer, The charm of the island is that tourists have to take a ferry, crime is lower, if people don't like it then move!! Island businesses would be put under-strain, they would be undercut and a lot of small local businesses would be shut down. Also I feel with more tourism will bring more strain on St Mary's hospital, it is struggling now so with an increase in tourism would see the NHS busier. It's called the "isle" of wight for a reason. ...its an island, and most defi "The Island is log jammed with traffic already, the roads into the Southern ports are solid for many miles every weekend and in the summer holidays. The road and parking infrastructure are not sufficient to cope. Also crime is low on the island and would PAGE 126 increase as the perpetrators would be able to escape easily. Insufficient police available to intervene quickly enough to stop them. Ferries would go bust too, and would probably claim compensation. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • " Island....... no fixed link. Roads bad, traffic horrendous already. The clue is in the word...island and that's how it should stay. Social considerations. Poor and insufficient infrastructure. The island is a place where most people come to bring up a family due to how safe and how private it is! By having this tunnel it will reduce the safety. The roads will busy and will just be a massive negative to the island Having a tunnel, and constant access will completely change the dynamics of the Isle of Wight. On busy bank holidays as a popular tourist destination who is going to control the amount of traffic onto the island, no person is going to be stood on the mainland and say 'sorry the iow is full today' the island roads are not designed to cope with an increase of traffic, and who is going to want their land taken over to build dual carriageways? And as for island infrastructure schools, healthcare, housing, business, we will change the whole landscape of the island and What makes us unique, an area of outstanding natural beauty, we will be no different from Portsmouth! I think ferry prices for residents need to be looked at but a tunnel is a terrible idea, and whoever is organising this needs to take a serious look at the detrimental effects this will have! "The Tunnel will make no difference to the cost of getting on /off the island as there will be a toll! Our beautiful unique island would no longer be an island. " Leave the island ALONE People come here to get away from the hectic life of the mainland. There is plenty of other ways to bring better tourism and business to the island without needed a fixed link, such as better run and cheaper ferry services. Or especially better deals for island residents over mainlanders I think it will cause major disruption to the islands traffic. The tourist industry and other businesses may do well with the increase of customers but i think well thought out plans should be made to handle the amount of traffic that will build up due to having the fixed link. Having lived on the mainland and moved to the island in 2009 you don't know how lucky you are to have no real crime here. By opening up to the mainland it will attract undesirables for sure. It would completely ruin the unique identity and quality of the island. Simply.....we do not need a fixed link, we have good services from 3 cross Solent companies that cater for most needs, run regular service through out the year at very fair prices considering seasonal increases and decreases. After living all my life on an island I choose to stay on an island. In my opinion a fixed link will mean the end of local services. The hospital, police and some fire stations would disappear. The price to travel the fixed link would have to be set quite high as investors will not want to wait ages for decent returns and profit. I totally understand that living on an island does not suit everyone but they don't have to stay. What I do get fed up with, is some people trying to impress they're will on others. A shame all the effort of the moaners who want a fixed link don't put that energy into getting the ferry companies to bring in more realistic prices, especially during school holidays. Isle of Wight IS TOO CROWDED. We DO NOT need the added pressure of more numbers. Our roads can not handle it. And our roads can not handle the traffic that is accumulated by road closure to fix roads. We do not need a flow of traffic on and off the island! To much traffic here already, crime would increase , ferry prices need to be reduced for islanders PAGE 127 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The cost of using it would be more than the ferries charge and it could wreck the hotel trade. There should not be tunnel. The ferry costs put off possible thieves and bad persons from the mainland. It's already getting bad we need to keep Isle of Wight exactly that a island. I think it will have an overall negative impact, as it will be busier, lose its distinctiveness and become just another part of the South-East. The real Isle of Wight will be lost. It's an Island and most of us prefer it that way. The island roads can not cope with vast amounts of traffic cluttering the roads now without extra. Would prefer money to be spent on a system of reducing the amount of traffic going into Newport Such as a tram system like Manchester. Why move to an Island and then try and change it, there are plenty of properties on the mainland people can move to. If there were to be a tunnel it must have a rail connection else it will be of limited use and promote car not green travel. This is an island it should be kept as such and not joined to the mainland. Being an island is special. People are being duped into thinking a tunnel will be cheaper than the ferry. Look at the malmo/Copenhagen link as an example that it doesn't work out that much cheaper. It will not make jobs here. Young people will not have more opportunities for work. Those opportunities for work and study exist and season tickets and multi link tickets exist. If people car shared this would reduce a ferry trip to £5 a trip. A Stunning Beautiful Island will be ruined. This is why we all love it here. Leave alone Please The island will be too overcrowded and will be ruined No cars just trains ❤️ There are currently lots of businesses that rely on people staying on the island overnight . What happens to them when people can just pop over for a couple of hours then return home. Hoteliers, guest house owners, pubs , restaurants that are involved with people staying overnight WILL suffer . People tell me FREQUENTLY that they enjoy the ferry trip as it's part of the excitement of coming here and a huge part of the draw of the Island . When that's gone what's left , drive here , stop for a SHORT while , then get back home to the mainland for a cheeky take away and a pint back on the mainland. Thanks, that's going to KILL a lot more of our businesses, vote NO FIXED LINK , end this madness now. Because I feel that the Island will become damaged from the increase in people and vehicles to the extent that we lose our peacefulness Traffic, housing, the nature of an island would totally change and not for the better. I don't agree fixed link is good for Island. It will lose the Island feel. I just think ferry should be a little more reasonably priced. It won't make the Isle of Wight special it will be too busy and more crime will rise A fixed link is completely impractical, would be prohibitively expensive and totally destroy the existing way of life on this Island. If any resident is not satisfied with their quality of life they should leave. It would have a negative impact on the life style we have on the ISLAND. People live here for its quiteness and the beauty. That would disappear on the arrival of a fixed link. And I'm sure the government would have much better things to spend there money on I.e the health service. The fixed link will bring trouble. It will lead to more traffic and pollution on the Island. We live on an Island and choose to do so for that reason. People who don't appreciate it can always move to the mainland if they want 24 hour-a-day mainland convenience. Everyone misses the point of this slight 'inconvenience', we have no wish to be a satellite of Gosport or Southampton. Tourists love the boat trip, and contrary to public opinion, the boats are cheaper now (in real terms) than in 1968. A tunnel is an impossibly expensive PAGE 128 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • pipe dream, talked about for over a century now. Cars, trains, trucks & people flowing over here in vast numbers on a last-minute sunny weekend jolly? No thanks.... Our Roads are not built up for loads of traffic, what if people can't drive how would they get off the island. We are an island. A tunnel is not needed. Don't fucking live on an island and moan about it. Crime rate will rocket. Nowhere to put it. Who's gonna pay for it, will the ferry company staff be guaranteed work after completion, how much will the toll be, the toll will NEVER in its lifetime make the money back spent on the build. Want a tunnel? Fuck off to the mainland. A tunnel would ruin the islands beauty and open the island up to crime rises and traffic increases on an already busy road network This subject arises every so often & because of cost it always fizzle out, so here we go round again. Nothing will happen. Too much traffic, possibility of rise in crime and lack of infrastructure. Also losing the islands uniqueness. I live on the mainland and still don't believe it will be a positive. I've lived around the crime on the mainland and it will make the island a less special place due to the people I have spoken to who are amazed by the current transport options we have; they wish they could come just for that reason. the reason most people like living here is because it is a island, we feel crime would become much more common and traffic would increase "I truly believe this will have a negative impact to the island. It is an island and as such appeals to many people for this reason. By changing it to just another area of Hampshire it will lose the majority of its tourism business. It will also become just another slum area as I can assure you that anyone that resides on the island because of its exclusivity will leave! These people contribute to the island greatly and always try to use island based businesses " its called isle of wight for a reason leave well alone I live in Yarmouth and work in lymington. Commute daily and have no issues with the ferries. what happens to all the commuters who then cannot get to work because a tunnel puts the ferries out of business. Not everyone drives so how does an easy commute, like mine is currently, then happen? Unless it goes from Yarmouth to lymington it'll cost more than I pay currently and take twice as long resulting in jobloss! The island is eroding anyway what's the point. Invest the money into the ferries and support them to reduce the fares!! An increase in population caused by the fixed link would put too much strain on the islands infrastructure and damage rural communities. Additional traffic would only worsen an already poor road network. Tourism could be damaged as the fixed link would remove the isolated "adventure" feel of visiting the island. The environment would suffer, during and after the build, there would be more traffic, more people would want to move here and there would not necessarily be more jobs/education/healthcare, loss of nature, loss of identity, we would be lumped together with Hampshire. This is just an easy way out for those who don't want to address the real problems the Island has. There are disadvantages to living on an island but those who want to live here enough find ways to overcome or take those disadvantages on the chin, those who find this too difficult should move! "I don't feel it is necessary, the main reasoning has so far been based on ferry prices More effort should be put into a reasonable ferry service, instead of an expensive controversial bridge to a very small island. There are lots of risks involved, maintaining both the tunnel and the coastline, and businesses are going to suffer." A fixed link will have a negative effect on tourism, community, and island life. Levels of crime increasing, we are an island so we shouldnt be connected to the mainland, lots of people will become unemployed PAGE 129 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • We are an island. Our infastructure can't cope with additional day visitors. The employment on the island would potentially go to people travelling in for the day. We will end up a total retirement island as all the tax payers would be horced away. Island would lose its would no longer be unique. Fixed link wouldn't be free. And it would increase traffic congestion. Increased number of people on island would put more strain on island resources. The Island's uniqueness would be swept away with a fixed link. People live here because it is a special place. With a fixed link in place it would become just like anywhere else on the mainland with all the negative points that brings! Having a fixed link with the consequent increase in traffic on already poorly maintained roads would have a detrimental affect on the unique atmosphere of the Island. We are an island and it's this reason it's a popular tourist destination, people look forward to crossing over on a ferry expensive as it is but they still come. Not everyone who travels here will make the iow a nicer place. The ferries and fares ensure there is a certain type of person who will be travelling here and not just any random, potentially dangerous person. We are and island, why would you want to change that? If you want to live on the mainland, move there. We are an Island and should remain as such!!!! "Currently the island is exactly that - an island. A fixed link would change that. If people are not prepared to use the existing ferries to travel to the mainland then they should move there permanently. The island is unique in many ways, it doesn't need to become part of the mainland with a fixed link. The fixed link is only wanted by people with their own interests at heart, eg, business people who stand to become wealthier through this link, and people who simply don't understand the ramification the link would have. Also, the current population of red squirrels would become at risk as a link would make it possible for other species to get here and damage the safe haven the island is for them. No fixed link. No doubt. " We have a very nice community on the island my personal opinion is that more people from the mainland will be able to gain access to the island more easily which will over populate the island We live on an island for a reason. A fixed link would ruin everything we hold dear about the island. It would put up the crime rate. .and cause too much traffic in the summer It would make it to easy for undesirables to come here "Don't need it waste of time and money spend on better things make island better. Hospital Roads Tourism The island is a perfect place let's not waste money and time on such rubbish as fixed link Ferries are over priced maybe that can be looked in to cap the prices " Would bring pollution and eventually the island would become another Portsmouth. The ferry prices should be cheaper. The ferry companies need to stop being greedy. The tourism and income of the island would improve massively, create more jobs if the ferry companies didn't charge so much. It's cheaper to go to Spain than to the island! Let's get some of their tourism and regenerate our beautiful town which are basically turning into ghost towns. It would spoil the island, traffic will become worse and crime would go up considerably The prospect of taking the identity from the island the very reason people come here in the first place. This is not some other place by the sea it is not bognor or Brighton this is the island. People know they are going somewhere special as soon as they are on the ferry Negative to tourism. Also the red squirrels PAGE 130 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It's an island....if people don't like the fact you have to reach it by boat, move off or don't move here. The island is already congested by traffic, a fixed link would only exacerbate the problem. And who will guarantee it will be half the price of the ferries?? Yet more money making for developers at the cost of the islanders I believe the likely increase in traffic would not be sustainable on Island roads The list is endless but if fixed link we will loose local hospital and its a and e facilities. We will have more day trippers and less holiday makers. Local housing will become even more expensive with mainland people buying up a place in the country which is easily commutable we already have a housing shortage which would be exasperated. Traffic would be worse than it already is which will increase pollution and road rage. I dont mind positive change but fixed link is not a positive change for the island. the boat makes it seem more special, more exotic. Less populated and more of a resort The island will be even more full of old people and the morning traffic around Newport will get worse and it's already very bad. The amount of deforestation that will have to happen to make more houses for people. It's a negative impact on this environment. it would bring to many cars to the island, as there are to many now we would not beable to drive around our own island Island roads which are already busy in the summer months would not be able to cope with a significant traffic increase which would result in a tunnel link. Also the relative tranquility of the Island would be compromised Island island island would kill the island "First and foremost because as a life long islander I do not want my home to lose its charm and become easily accessible for developers that will ruin our countryside. It needs to stay expensive for them. That it will no longer be an island and will lose its charm. Our red squirrel populatiob will be in grave danger from greys. A lot of islanders don't want access to be that easy as drug running will get worse. " Its eep it that wayan Island k Any tunnel would increase traffic flow to, as well as on the Island and surrounding areas to the entrance and exits on both sides. An accident inside the tunnel could cause a considerable delay to not only the general public but if blocked the emergency services as well, especially if the ferry companies are driven out of the business as a result I believe that if there was a fix link it would be to exspensive in time prices will go up compared to ferry crossing and we are a island We are an island look up the definition in a dictionary and if you don't like island life the answer is simple..... move to the mainland! The roads cannot cope with the current traffic on the island now. Look at Newport during rush hour. It would be bumper to bumper with extra vehicles on our roads. The Island has a charm about it that cant be found anywhere else in the UK, part of the reason for this is our isolation from the mainland. A fixed link would make it easier for people to travel to the Island which for businesses is great but not so good for the slower paced Island way of life. I admit something needs to be done on the Island but I think forcing the ferry companies to reduce prices and removing our idiotic and corrupt council would be a start. tunnel will bring more traffic, the money could be better spent that it is a waste of time. We are an Island for a reason. We moved here from the Lake District and our holiday letting properties do far better than the one we had in south lakeland. I feel the island would lose its uniqueness. It would have a negative impact on crime, traffic, wildlife & the beauty of the island. I feel that a fixed link would damage the feel of the Island. Although the current ferry services are extortionate prices, it gives visitors a feel of going somewhere 'special', take that away, and we'll just be the same as the mainland, thus a decline in tourism. I also PAGE 131 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • believe that crime rate is likely to go up, due to the fact that it would make it easier for criminals to get on/off the Island. Quite simply because of traffic it would bring to the island as roads can't cope as it is especially summer holidays, Parking would also be a huge issue Due to the social impact of being linked to the mainland, crime, safety etc Crime will raise, the island roads and networks cant cope as it is, the isle of wight is known for its ferries with outthem or even with a fixed link the island wouldnt be the island no more. "I do not see anything wrong with the system we have now. If you don't like it , move!" The Island's road are not capable of receiving a vast influx of traffic. They are in the main, narrow small country roads not suitable for any larger quantity of traffic. The upkeep of the roads would be another problem. As an Island resident I want to keep the natural beauty and uniqueness of the Island. Having a fixed link will destroy the independent nature of the island. Having a fixed link would make the island much more vulnerable to invasive species- the grey squirrel being just one example. Also, we are an island and so I think we should be proud of that, people who move to the island are aware that it is an island and so should not expect there to be a link to the mainland. Additionally, part of the appeal for tourists is the very fact that we are an island. Safety. Crime "Sheer cost An island is an island, not an extension of portsmouth" The trip on the ferry to get to the island is part of what makes it such a special place. When I was at university I loved the whole excitement of coming home and waiting for the ferry, a fixed link would take away that specialness and I think the island would suffer greatly because of it. "There are over half a million people on the doorstep of the Isle of Wight and an immediate link to the predominantly rural island would I think be extremely detrimental in many areas. (Traffic, crime, pollution etc) " Increase in crime as offenders can access the IOW easier. There will not be an increase in Police to cope leaving residents vulnerable. The hotel trade will suffer as more people will come for day trips. The road network wont cope. The house prices will rise preventing local residents affording them and there will be more holiday homes purchased. The island is a unique part of the UK for a reason. Creating a fixed link will only spoil it. If residents dont want to live on an island they should move. If they dont want to as they enjoy the safe tranquil environment on the IOW but need access to the mainland. A fixed link will spoil everything they enjoy. See commence above. Because of the impact it would have on the island's road network. We're already struggling to cope with what we've got, and if the predicted rise in traffic as a result we're to become a reality, this island would become gridlocked. I can then see more houses being built, but no jobs to go with them, and all sorts of issues rising from a damn stupid idea of having a fixed link. The island is so because of journey to and from -boat ! I do not want a fixed link, anyone who does should pack up and leave. "Instead of spending millions on a fixed link, spend the money investing and reducing the prices on the boats. Building a fixed link will cause 'the island' to lose its status and it's uniqueness. SPEND THE MONEY ON NEW/UPDATED BOATS AND LOWER THE PRICES" PAGE 132 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • People shouldn't live on the Isle of Wight if they are bothered about how to get to and from the mainland. It's appeal is that it requires a boat to get here. The ferries do charge too much and feel that should be looked into more than fixed links that will allow more crime and traffic than we can handle. Don't like the IOW that has been cut off since forever? Then move to the mainland. We don't need a fixed link we need competitive ferry company's, A 3rd operator at a different port maybe the better option. Keep the island as it is, Negative as to much traffic here all ready. No longer will be an island, which for most of us is the reason we live here. Traffic problems, increased crime rates, local health services would be closed Although there would be more tourists they would be more daytrippers than hotel residents. Also I cannot see how the roads would cope with extra traffic getting into newport especially is bad enough without lots of extra cars. I feel that if a fixed link tunnel was built then the island would loose the reputation it has for being a safe environment for families and the elderly to live. If we build a fixed link then we would not only make travel easier to and from the island but we would bring over any crime that is currently not here. The better thing to do would be to invest the money into making a cheaper ferry service because although the ferries are a bit of a pain and are expensive if we invested the right amount of money into them I think we could come up with a better alternative. Definitely no tunnel a bridge yes..... We are congested on the roads and housing situations this would make things 1000x worse "to recover the cost of building a fixed link and its access portals as well as the maintenance/running costs, the cost for vehicles using it will be no cheaper than the existing routes, the only thing you will gain is the supposed advantage that you wouldn't have to wait to use it like you do if you miss a ferry, what people forget to consider is that at certain times of the day both the M275 from Portsmouth and the M271 from Southampton get extremely congested and that is with the ferries only discharging occasionally, if you have constant access it wont be any better as neither the M275 or M271 are designed to cope with the traffic they have today. another thing to consider is if you open a fixed link then both wightlink and red funnel will end up cutting boat numbers to keep costs down, if they both cut even just one ferry each route and something happens inside the tunnel such as a vehicle fire or bad accident and the tunnel is closed for days on end for repairs then you are going to create a worse situation than the one we are in now. the only way to make a tunnel profitable would be if the operator also owned one of the ferry routes too but they aren't interested in it also why is it that the vast majority of people who want a fixed link are people who were not born here but who have moved over here at some point in their lives?" This is an island that's why I live here. If you don't like it move!@! will end up a white elephant not wanted nor needed will ruin our island not wanted overpriced nowhere suitable to build will be overpriced will be to expensive will spoil the island Nowhere suitable to site this PAGE 133 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • waste of money ...not required ..in these times of austerity money should be spent on helping people who need it. We do not need easier access to the island for undesirables. If people want to come to a select location then they should have to put up with some sacrifice and financial burden A tunnel would undermine the very benefits of being an island and we'd lose the unique qualities we have that are the main positive factors of living here. There are negative impacts too of being an island but I believe that instead of spending the resource on a tunnel that money could be invested into the local economy and community project that would continue to feed back into our local economy. The island is unique and crime is lower and easier to control whilst the only way off is a boat or ferry. A fixed link would lessen that control and even if crime was not an issue the island wouldn't be able to cope with large numbers of people wanting to move to the island and then we would need to build more housing which would destroy our beautiful countryside.Keep the island unique and beautiful. Even more traffic on our congested roads I don't want to be joined to the mainland hence why I still live on the Isle of Wight. I was born and bred on the Island and want it to remain the lovely Island it still is. very easy now to get on/off island not needed nor wanted could ruin present ferry arrangements stop wasting time & money on this stupidity not wanted will be overpriced! ruin our beauty spots I was born on the Island and whilst I have worked away for a period of time (HM Forces) it has always remained my home. It is part of my life and it is my future. Our culture and heritage has shaped who I am and a fundamental aspect of that has been our identity and attachment to being an Island. A fixed link will permanently change our culture and Island way of life. In time, that heritage, culture, and way of life will be eroded and it will be my children and grandchildren that will lose something that makes us unique - and worst of all will come a time when generations will not even know they have lost this unique element of their community and culture as it will simply be condemned to history. Claims that a fixed link will improve or solve any social issues we have on the Island is absurd, it will take investment, policy, planning and execution specific to those issues. A fixed link will not be some magical key where everything in society simply then just falls into place. How many services would be transferred off of the Island? Currently, a huge percentage of crime on the Island is committed by a very small number of people, many of which are known to the police and authorities. Part of this is attributed to the fact that it is not cheap, quick or necessarily easy for opportunist criminals to come here. Indeed when we have large numbers of people coming over from the mainland, such as at the IOW Festival and Cowes Week, crime levels go up, so any claim that easier access for people to come to the Island will reduce crime is contrary to factual evidence and is effectively false advertising. In the long term, only negative net effects will be felt if a fixed link was built, and although this may turn out to be relatively low negative effects in my lifetime, it will be our children and future generations who will be left to live with the consequences of our decision. Should any plans develop a full referendum would be needed with Island heritage required to vote. I was born here, I didn't ask anyone to come here or build a fixed link, so if someone is proposing to, it should be Islanders born here or lived here for 20+ years who should be the ones to decide Our islands traffic network is already gridlocked during the working week (cowes to Newport is always a nightmare). I am not convinced with Pro Links explanation that the FL would improve this 1. As intended it should increase traffic onto the island which we cannot cope with & 2. the implication that the roads would not be busy when ferries unload (compared to that of now) I do not subscribe to as the most of the significant PAGE 134 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • traffic delays occur a long way away from the ferries (with the exception of the festival weekend) Waste of time Spoil the island This is biased Waste of time. Nothing will happen Nowhere suitable to build this Spoil travelling to IOW Waste of time and money It will be dearer to cross than now Wasting money Will ruin the island Will be to expensive Nowhere suitable for it The effects of ANY fixed link would be devastating, environmentally and in every other way. Stupid idea ruin the island present services are very easy! nowhere suitable to build it not needed I'm not sure what price is worthwhile for ruining the Isle of Wight ? In times of austerity, where the Goverment are constantly cutting budgets and scrapping services. Spending over a Billion pounds on a project that will only benefit 140,000 is never going to be approved. If it was approved, I believe the media backlash would do more damage to the economy of the island than the tunnel would do good. It is ludicrous that mainland/island workers have to cross either way in order to work. Each should remain on their own side. "There are way too many cars here already and it would totally WRECK the island. However a RAIL tunnel I would support. Of course far better than either would be for the Council / government / whoever to do something about the greedy ferry companies' crazy greedy prices. Having a fixed link seems a ridiculously disproportionate and damaging to resolve the greed problem." "There are too many vehicles on the IW already, so I wouldn't support a road bridge or tunnel. A railway tunnel is my preferred option, it would bring more prosperity to the Island and more opportunities for our young people." will not solve any problem will be as dear or even dearer than the ferries are now! will spoil our island The island is AONB & SSIs all will be ruined nowhere suitable to build this waste of taxpayers money will not be cheaper than the ferries we are an AONB, this will spoil it Will be much to expensive ruin the views too expensive no place suitable to build this ruin the easy access already available job losses at current ferry companies ruin the Island PAGE 135 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • nowhere suitable to link the island to mainland spoil our beautiful island no suitable places to build this "Because having any type of link to the mainland would cause the island not to be able to cope with the extra amount of traffic we are struggling as it is with traffic problems..... Our lovely little islands crime rate will go up and we won't be an island anymore...... People only want it for their own selfish ways because they don't like the stretch of water in between and the bother of getting a ferry...... So No to fix link.........." nowhere suitable to build a link wasting money nowhere suitable to build this not necessary to waste vast sums of money nowhere suitable to build this nowhere suitable to build it loss of jobs from present cross solent companies ruin our tourist trade ruin our beaches could lose 500 plus jobs from the ferry companies nobody will pay the £billions needed will ruin our Island not wanted Private investors will not fund this and public should not have too! doubtful it will ever happen as nobody will pay for this It would spoil the AONB nowhere to site a link without spoiling the Island waste of time and effort nowhere to put a link without spoiling the island "The Isle of Wight's unique asset is that it is - an Island! Time and effort would be better spent on how we can attract 21st century business to the Island. With communications technology as it now stands, many businesses now have a far wider choice of location. With the high costs of business / personal property on the mainland and the commuting gridlock suffered in many areas - the beauty of Isle of Wight and the activities and lifestyle it offers should be sold as an attraction of relocation to existing and potential employees. Bringing in new business is also key to providing exciting employment opportunities for the Island's young people in the future." has been discussed for over 100 years,so it ill never happen not wanted nor needed ruin the uniqueness of the island it will be an expensive white elephant because of Q8 this is biased no study needed Q8 make this biased very expensive for no discernable benefit will not improve my job prospects, wherever it is located will be wrong for the island very unnecessary expense any type of fixed link will spoil our AONBs We would lose many things, such us the slower pace of life, our district hospital, Don't want it We are an island and a fixed link would destroy that A fixed link would totally change the character of the island, and potentially have a catastrophic impact on the tourist trade, upon which the island relies. It would also lead PAGE 136 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • to increased road congestion and encourage use of the island as a binge drinking destination for those coming from the mainland for an evening out. It could also make it easier for grey squirrels to get on to the island, which could eventually result in the demise of our native red squirrels, as has happened in all but a few small pockets on the mainland. I personally don't want the Isle of Wight just to feel like another part of the mainland - it is being a (physically separate) that makes life special here. Road tunnel would be a step too far, a train only tunnel is a more practical approach nothing good will ever come of it! "The English will simply not let us build the other end so the whole thing is a pointless waste of money. If you ae unhappy being on an a smallisland there is a simple solution. Move to north island! " Will not bring any benefits to this island! waste of money! "The Island would be vastly overpopulated. To much traffic. Island infra-structure would be unable to cope. Without demolishing half the housing on the Island it would be nigh impossible to improve infra structure." Destruction of a great amount of the natural environment Any money available should be made for improvements to the existing roads and infrastructure of the island and not with a fixed link. The island needs help for the future and a fixed link is of no help at all as it will only create problems. "1.A fixed link would completly change the character of the island for the worse, danger of becoming a comuter area with all the traffic problems that would create. 2. Th IOW council should not spend a single penny on this when important council provided services are under such severe financiall constraints." It would make the island an undesirable place to holiday. It could change the face of the island. It would make commuting to easy pushing the house prices up so young islanders would have to move away. It could have añ impact on St Marys with procedures being moved to the mainland. it could have an impact on crime with it being easer to move from the island to the mainland. "No more traffic! The only sensible fixed link solution is to have a rail tunnel providing a shuttle service for passengers and light freight. Anywhere else in the world would have done this in the late nineteenth or early twentieth century. If only I K Brunel had lived on the island 150 years ago we would have had a rail tunnel. Result, more jobs; better paid jobs; better gene pool(!); better 24 hour communications; more teachers and medics; etc., etc. The only reason I can see for not having a fixed link is to prevent escaping prisoners getting back to the mainland. OOOOOH! Just a minute.........." zero chance of ever happening See answers to above. doubtful it will be as cheap as my season ticket The island would become a suburb of Southampton & Portsmouth with all the crime & problems major cities face. House prices would rise creating more housing problems for residents. Tourism would suffer as people would stay for shorter periods, or not at all, and the island would lose it's charm. It's an island, leave it as it it's meant to be, it's why most of us choose to live here!! The Island is already becoming overcrowded, with rising crime & unemployment. A fixed link would only serve make things worse. It will make IOW a commuter settlement and push up housing prices and therefore costs of everything else as well. I don't believe it will increase employment on the island but just the number of people commuting distances off the island. I think the costs economically PAGE 137 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • and environmentally of putting in a fixed link - tunnel or bridge would far outweigh the benefits. The damage to the environment, the pollution, the overcrowding, the noise of increased traffic. It would attract undesirable levels of pollution and congestion with increased traffic. Would destroy the ambience of the island. Potential traffic increase,with day trippers who would spend little to no money on a day out with their pack lunches / picnics. Never going to happen as Mainlanders enjoy the ferry trip as part of the holiday experience and have no inclination or economic benefit for the mainland to finance this dream. In addition most Islanders don't want a fixed link. I want to preserve the relative tranquility and atmosphere that makes the Island special. It is why I live here and why people love to visit. An escape from the rat race. I do not want to see the dynamic changed and our roads clogged with yet more traffic. A fixed link will make the iow more dependant on the mainland for services. Hospital services being discontinued on the iow in favour of a long journey to mainland hospitals. If island wages have to rise to meet that of the mainland (to prevent loss of talent and knowledge from island companies) then the island businesses will suffer to meet the higher wages. The island b&b's will lose business to the day trippers who save money by making a one off day trip instead of a whole weekend or longer. Traffic will be impacted and beaches will face over crowding. Should be making the island more self sufficient and a gem not a poor sub division of Hampshire As above possible increase in crime. Also I moved to the IOW because it was an island. I do not believe that the road infrastructure could cope with an increase in traffic. no The island is a special place for visitors and part of the experience for visitors is the ferry trip. Having a fixed link would be expensive for visitors but would not provide the fun experience of the ferry. More people might come for day trips from the mainland and they would all bring their cars increasing traffic congestion on the island. I don't think a fixed link would encourage tourists to stay on the island and this would hit the economy of the island. It would also remove the need for the ferries and the consequent loss of jobs that this would bring. It would even hit the marine industry on the island e.g. at East Cowes as there would be no need to build new ferries for Red Funnel or to refurbish ferries and again this would have an impact on jobs and the economy. Added to this there is the impact on the environment and wildlife which I feel would be a negative one. An increase in cars on the island would add to pollution, increase noise and reduce the quality of life for residents. The building of a fixed link would also impact on the quality of life for residents living near the site. It would no doubt operate 24/7 and I've lived with similar situations in the past and it is not a pleasant experience. environment , wildlife , culture basicly crime at present we dont have much,with a link it would increase overnight then it would be to late to reverse an ill thought idea, which will never happen anyway. This survey is sooooo easy to do multiple times that it is completely worthless - I've just done it three times in Chrome Incognito mode! My answer to this question relates to my queries in question 9 As above I moved to the island to get away from the mainland and all it's chaos. I still feel the same. I believe a large part of he Island's future economic success lies in selling itself as a distinctive 21st century leisure destination. Crossing the water is an integral part of visiting the Island. In addition, a fixed link would most likely kill the ferry services; create a monopoly for the fixed link operators who'll have licence to charge whatever they like; and force users to crowd the two fixed link access points on each side of the water rather than spread themselves between ferry ports as they do now. PAGE 138 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Increased traffic would damage Island infrastructure Ferry service limits traffic on Island Effort should be put into sustainable energy supply (tidal?) instead of increasing traffic on island Increased traffic could damage tourism on island which relies heavily on natural beauty on Island " Would create too many visitors increase criminal activity cause to many traffic problems increase the help needed at the only hospital.The Island is not geared up to any more problems than it has already the roads etc are not adequate to take any more traffic at least with the Ferry it does limit it somewhat and anyway the Ferry is all part of the holiday experience. The Island would loose identity and become just another part of Hampshire like Hayling Island. The infrastructure has already been stretched by the increase in ferry size. The increase in property value would drive most people renting accommodation off the Island. The large corporate businesses would gone, particularly real estate. The poor would loose out. Please spend the money on existing roads and healthcare. Need to look at the amazing Island and concentrate on the positives. How can you berate Dbid and VisitIOW then use the arguments you have been using. It would vastly increase the amount of tourist traffic to the IOW, which at present is effectively restricted by the amount the ferries can carry. Our small island does not have the roads infrastucture to handle additional traffic above what we currently see in high season. I don't believe that it offers a financial benefit having commuted daily for a number of years I can see no financial benefit to a fixed link from the figures that have been put forward . A fixed link will destroy the Islands unique culture and charm turning the island into a suburb of Soton/Portsmouth It will ruin the island. If people are so desperate to be connected to the north island, go and live there. "It is not needed, The Isle of Wight is a County, It has he same benefits and problems as any other county in the UK A Fixed Link will NOT! solve any issues that some people think exist. All a link will do is make it MORE problematic for people to travel on and off the Island as is proof of Hayling Island " "Island roads are not suitable heavy traffic. The inconvenience of ferry travel is more than offset by the rural areas. More development would make it a less pleasant place to live and visit." There would be a massive rise in traffic numbers and the Island infrastructure could not cope. A fixed link takes away the island's appeal as taking away the ferries cat's and hovercraft just makes it an extension of the mainland and no longer special Most peoples issue with travel to / from the island is cost. Introduce a subsidised service with a more socially convenient timetable and the majority of issues disappear. The Isle of Wight, apart from being a tourist attraction due to being surrounded by water. Is gradually becoming overcrowded because of overdevelopment , therefore we cannot afford to become saturated which we will if connected by a permanent structure to the mainland. Hence I believe it to be not only an extremely negative undertaking, but also a complete waste of funding as this money could be better spent fighting the ferry companies to reduce their ticket prices. The Island benefits from being an Island and from being the only accessible Island off the English coast. It's its USP and the pleasure and sense of "going somewhere special" that visitors get crossing on the ferries is a very important positive, despite the cost. A huge construction project as proposed for the fixed link is financially unrealistic,would be strongly opposed on the mainland, would take many, many years to complete during which time the ferry service would be run down and even more exploitative and would PAGE 139 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • simply make the Island part of Hampshire. House prices would increase making it harder for local people to get on the housing ladder and although we would probably get more day trippers it is doubtful that stop over visits would increase. The reasons I enjoy living on the Island would be lost as would the Islands identity. "Firstly looking at it from the tourist side as I once was the ferry journey was one of the enjoyments of coming to the Isle of Wight. Secondly as person who has lived on the Island for over 30 years I can see big problems with crime coming to the Island, how easy it will it be for criminals to come and go. We would need the police force increased not cut." The only way a fixed link could work favourably for the great majority of Islanders is by extending the rail network e.g. from Ryde to Portsmouth. In my opinion the only feasible fixed link is a train tunnel because this would maintain our existing quality of life on the Island. A public transport fixed link would not impact on the Island infrastructure, roads, size and capacity because most people are car-users and prefer this mode of transport, therefore the impact on the Island of a fixed link rail tunnel would be negligible whereas a road fixed link would be significant and substantial. The attraction of the Island is that it is an Island and not connected to the mainland by any form of fixed link. Connection to mainland road network. Impact on Island roads. "the fixed link is a red herring. Have a look at the Eurotunnel. Still not paying for itself, crossing time only marginally reduced because of car on train logistics. And it costs more than the ferries. A direct road link would have severe ventilation and safety problems. There would be enormous spoil to be removed. A bridge would have to be massive to allow shipping through. For both the approach roads needed would rightly be fought by people on both sides. And after all that the economics of the ferry business would be that they would need to INCREASE not reduce fares." A fixed link would destroy The Island's unique way of life You can't make the island bigger, the roads can't cope as it is! The Island is just that, an island. Having a fixed link will make it an extension of the mainland and, in my opinion, will have a devastating effect on the current services we have. Negative as it is currently a proposed 'road tunnel'. I believe that if a fixed link does go into place, then it is a fantastic opportunity to promote public transportation around the Island. If you look at the approaches to Newport on a weekday, it is clear that continuing investment in private road traffic is unsustainable and impractical. I would not support a road tunnel, but would support a rail link (that has facilities for carrying cycles and freight). The Island would become just a yuppie-type area for mainland workers, even more overloaded with vehicles, and homes for residents completey unaffordable. The only winners would be those with financial interests in having tunnel - even supposing a tunnel could be viable financially. I would not support any link which did not include rail option will spoil the Island Not needed, very easy to get on/off the island now Feasibility studies are the darlings of expensive consultants. Everything is feasible at a price. We could spend billions proving that a concrete aircraft could fly. But the maths shows it is not the best answer. Feasibility studies have already been done. Nothing much has changed the initial study could be done on the back of an envelope at no cost before proceeding further. PAGE 140 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • We live on an Island. We do not need a tunnel. We need cheaper ferry fares!!!! If people want to live on the mainland they they should not be living on the ISLE of Wight. Time and money plus effort should be spent on gaining cheaper fares not a pie-in-the-sky idea of a tunnel or bridge.It won't work!!! We don't need or want it!! We don't need a Fixed Link of any kind. "The Island is a unique and beautiful place to live. The Island will become an overflow for Portsmouth and Southampton and considerable consdieration should be given to how crime will change with a greater ease of access to the Island. Our Island services are already overstretched - hospital etc - how will this be managed? Will there be a toll for a link which will then contribute to the Island council? We do not need a fixed link." doubtful it would ever happen not wanted nowhere to put it without spoiling our AONB Don't want it! will spoil the views Increase to traffic and day tourists not needed Island roads could never support this volume of traffic,it would be gridlocked. It is not a question of "future welfare" being a deciding factor, but purely a question of Commercial reality in terms of any investors willing to fund a Project to give a effective return. I was hoping this "survey" would give the opportunity for rational and objective comment on whether there should be a Feasibility Study, but these questions will provide a biased result in favour of a FL - and it appears a favoured solution of a "tunnel" as mentioned in Question 8. If the questions had been better constructed to ask about the practicalities of a FL survey and one was achieved, there would be no doubt the result on just the Commercial, Governmental legislation and Environmental, (increased traffic and in an area of AONB) grounds would end this debate fairly swiftly to show a FL - tunnel or otherwise would be a non-starter. I believe that being an Island unconnected to the mainland has, overall, more positive aspects than negative. very easy to get on & off the island now will spoil the island waste of time and effort doubtful it will ever be built! never going to happen! will be too expensive, probably dearer than present ferries it will ruin this beautiful island waste of public money! will spoil our AONBs I think the islands uniqueness, and specific culture would be eroded with more commuters and short term day trippers. The road traffic would also be difficult. One of the great things we have found since moving here is the courtesy on the roads. You can tell when someone isnt an islander. Big business would move their trade. Holiday makers ( like I was for many years) come for the journey too, they would just go somewhere else.we would become. over populated. Building works for more houses, roads too small for the traffic. More rubbish and waste. And like everything more thefts, muggings, graffiti, gangs etc. I moved from a small country town as they built connecting roads, the trouble was unbearable... Roads cannot take the extra traffic. Parking would be impossible. Tourists will come for a day and not stay reducing accommodation requirements. Tourists like the idea of being PAGE 141 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • cut off on an Island for a holiday and the ferry journey is part of that experience. Ferry workers could lose their jobs. I chose to live on an island! Less people would use the buses if they come by car. It would destroy the Island life. Traffic is already horrendous, imagine what it would be like with all the extra traffic and pollution. Why move here if you don't wish to live on an island? Fixed link would lead to more moving from mainland, more building, more traffic more road building yet further increase in property prices. Would make it even more difficult for my daughter to buy a property. Because we would no longer be an island community - just an extension of Hampshire will ruin our ferries it would spoil the island The Isle of Wight is an ISLAND and should remain so. will be too expensive complete waste of money won't be our island anymore "If people moved here because it is an island why are they now trying to change this, maybe different companies should be helped out to stop the monopalisation of other only two ferry companies. " 1. It could cause the Island to become a suburb of Portsmouth like Hayling Island. 2. Our roads could not withstand the extra traffic that would result. 3. The attraction of the Island as a holiday resort would diminish. As question above and at present crime is at a minimum whereas with a fixed link the island would be mush less safe and beautiful The Island, for all its faults, has a unique feel and life. I have seen a lot of change since I arrived in 1962 some good, some bad but the Islanders have coped and moved on. A fixed link would be too much of a change. The Island roads would not be able to cope and the damage to the environment on the Mainland and on the Island at either ends of any tunnel or bridge would be horrendous. Tourists come here because the Island is different, people come here to live because they and their families feel safer on the Island. We do not want to bring the Mainland to the Island. Those who want a fixed link want to destroy the unique way of life we have for their own gains. Having to take a ferry every time we want to leave the Island is a pain but we would still have to pay through the nose to use any tunnel or bridge and then be faced with a drive to Southampton. NO FIXED LINK. not needed it will be a white elephant stupid idea! spoil the Island unnecessary waste of time & money completely unnecessary unnecessary More incomers, as above, far more traffic, more and more building, more destruction of the environment. we are an AONB much to expensive! the island is an AONB it would spoil the island will ruin our AONB probably cost more than the present ferries nowhere to build it PAGE 142 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • it will ruin the island spoil our island i do not feel a fixed link would maintain the security i feel having that stretch of water. i have chosen to bring my children up here because it feels safer, smaller even than cities and towns on the mainland. what about the hundreds of jobs that would be lost on both red funnel and wightlink? a bridge or tunnel would not require like for like personnel. The increases in traffic will cause problems on the island roads we have managed to date with ferries so I see no reason what so ever to change A fixed link will destroy the unique IOW (please visit Hayling Island in in doubt) no idea where it will cross the solent it will never happen in my families lifetime! it will ruin our island will divide the island will spoil the island it will never happen much to expensive We'd no longer be an island and our quality of life would be destroyed The Island is like a cul-de-sac with no through road and traffic would come to a stand still and with nowhere to park. I would suggest a Park & Ride to the Island. The Isle of Wight is an island and that is a significant part of the reason why people choose to visit / live here "I would very much like to see a bridge, similar to the one featured in your article in the Isle of Wight County Press 24.2.17 page 3. It caught my eye, as I'm sure it would too, for many tourists. Let's celebrate and showcase our architectural designers' abilities. Let them create something breathtaking that people could be in awe of and make a special journey to come and see, like The Spinnaker Tower (still the best name for it!) Also a bridge, I feel would be safer than a tunnel. Inevitably there will be a need for rescue. A 'Services Only' lane should be included alongside normal traffic lanes. If an incident produced complications, we are fortunate to have an Air Ambulance to cover extreme emergencies. To help maintain this service, the Air Ambulance could receive monetary support from a percentage of the levy charged, to cross over. In a tunnel, a major delay would be unavoidable while the patient waits for the ambulance to reach them, then, to emerge either end and proceed to the nearest hospital, precious time will have been lost. In being prepared for the likelihood of such incidents: MINUTES MATTER. Please send me the results of this survey, thank you." Although I appreciate the benefit to businesses we are an Island and I feel that any form of fixed link to the mainland would see an end to the beauty of island life and the reason the majority of us live here. I believe that the quality of life on the Isle of Wight is enhanced by the fact that it is an Island. The stretch of water between us and the mainland gives us a unique identity. The infrastructure on the island needs to be the first priority. Well paid more employment, building the tourist market. Ending poverty of people on the Island. spoil our island not needed No chance it will ever be built it will never happen you are wasting your time it will never happen you are wasting your time and money, it will never happen not needed The joys of loving on am island is thay you have to get to it by ship or plane etc. Majority of the people loving on the island who complain about ferry prices are not from the island PAGE 143 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • originally. They have moved here to an 'Island' and only when they arrive they realise there comes an expense to get on and off the island. If you don't like it then move back to the mainland, the solution really is quite simple. We have excellent 24/7 365 connections to the mainland and if you use red funnel the pleasure if travelling really doesn't break the bank! It's cost effective. If I moved to the channel islands tomorrow and kicked off over the price if ferry travel and then decided to campaign for a fixed link people would laugh and tell me that I should have realised I was moving to an island. This entire project really is a waste if time for those involved and I would be disgusted to see government money wasted into any study. It's also key to look into the build and then running costs of a fixed link..... to become sustainable and to pay of the billions if pounds to construct the fixed link will need to generate more income per month than wight link, red funnel amd hover travel combined! How are you going to do that? And geographically the crossing will be quite a long one from start to finish... it will create lots of emissions, it's going to cost a lot and the island will no longer be seen as an island to escape to for holidays and business. If it's not broken don't fix it! let's work on sustainability for the island, what we have in place logistically is good so lets work on making it great. you are wasting your time you are wasting your time and money, it will never happen only use private investment not needed nor wanted most of us live here because it is quiet...if there's a tunnel we will just become a suburb of Southampton and Portsmouth and it will kill this beautiful island! Crime, housing affordability, environmental concerns, health care concerns, traffic management, extreme cost, lack of democratic debate etc loss of jobs on ferries It was investigated before and was found be too expensive. Also whether it was bridge or tunnel it would mean there was only one exit to and from the island, ( imagine the queues) as the ferries would no longer run. our Island is unique a link will spoil it! will ruin our island it will divide the island Will spoil the island a waste of public money I don't want any of my money/taxes wasted on this It will change the whole character of the Island, cause pollution, congestion and disrupt environment and communities where it arrives on the island. A fixed link would destroy the uniqueness of the island - as it wouldn't be one any longer. It would increase the opportunity for travelling criminals to more easily focus on the Island. The IOW is already sinking under a sea of cars and unwanted/unneeded development , it doesn't need a mechanism to make these problems any worse. A fixed link would drive the last nail into the lid of it's coffin. The island is an island. There is no need for a fixed link. Whilst it may benefit certain businesses the negatives far outweigh the positives. If you want a fixed link - go and live on the mainland and leave the people who are thrilled to live on an island, happy. A fixed link would spoil the Island. Our peace would be destroyed, the infrastructure would not cope, there would be an increase in crime rates and a risk to the red squirrel population. Our island would become like Hayling Island with no guarantee of improvement to job prospects. If pro-fixed linkers do not like the stretch of water that separates us from the mainland then perhaps they should consider moving to the mainland and leave the rest who enjoy the island as it is, alone. The island is what it is because it is an island. If people are unhappy with the links to the mainland they should move back there. The ferry is part of the holiday! PAGE 144 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Would support a train only link - not road "Any fixed link would need recover capital costs. An investment of around 1£billion+ (see my letter IWCP Nov 2014) would see a monopoly charge of at least ferry charges to recover costs. Of course the ferry companies would be out of business crsating a monopoly. It is difficult to see any advantage for a fixed link compared to the existing ferry services. A fixed link at say Yarmouth would add to travel times for those travelling from the easr wight. And vice versa if the link would be at Fishbourne area. With the ixisting ferries there are 3 local choices of travel location. The opportunity cost of £1billion must be quite a few hospital beds. A no brainer for any government one would think." The Island is one of the few White British areas left of what was once Britain. A link will create a developers cash cow and make the Island the ethnic slum that describes most of Britain today. See above plus House costs will increase sharply. Road infrastructure unable to handle increase plus access point of link will have to handle all existing ferry traffic plus additional. Any traffic problem there will bring the island to a standstill. Crime will increase due to ease of driving off. Tourism may find that without the unique trip to the island it could lose much of its appeal. More work needs to go in to regulating the ferry companies. Perhaps introducing an operating licience or similar. Hayling Island was linked and ruined. We should be promoting and protecting our special qualities for future generations. As mentioned above if you can't live without a tunnel or bridge go and live on the mainland. The main benefit or beauty of living on an island is that it is an island, a fixed link will just make us a suburb of Portsmouth or what ever mainland town is nearest to it's egress. If you don't like living on an island then move off of it and your problem is immediately solved.. Seems so simple and cheap to me. nowhere suitable to build it will cost me more to commute doubtful it will ever happen will spoil our beautiful island will never happen will be dearer than present links no ideal place to be built spoil views it's all pie in the sky it's a waste of money easy now to get on/off the island waste of money not needed will be too expensive will be a white elephant A fixed link will just make the island a suburb of Portsmouth and we will have even more pressure on our Green Fields to build more houses for the comuters. See above will make commuting harder Simplifying access to the island is likely to make it even more attractive for 2nd home owners further killing the community and making it more difficult for islanders to be able to afford to stay where they grew up and close to their families. will affect ferries Same reason as a bridge. The true solution is to pressurise the ferry companies to make their services more affordable - P & O charge £1.00 to travel Dover to France! - The only problem with movement to & fro is exorbitant costs. A camper van can visit the Island and PAGE 145 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • stay on a camp site (two people) for £45.00! This means the General Public are subsidising these types of crossing. The whole reason for living on any Island is to be separated from elsewhere by water: those in that frame of mind should question their reasons for electing to live on an Island. In addition, with flare and ambition, the Island can be made more attractive with other forms of crossing the water; other forms which have been tried, but have been challenged by the ferry operators: more choice would, by definition, reduce crossing costs. A bridge/tunnel would increase traffic flows beyond Island infrastructure, and would denigrate the attractiveness of the Island. Note, question 8 is of no value as you are not allowed to use the same numbers to highlight importance! "Ruin a unique environment. Traffic on the IOW is already above capacity with regular traffic hold ups. Why make it any worse. " We are an island and not just an annex of Hampshire. We will lose our identity and what makes the island special. The fact we are an island makes us different from the rest of the south coast which is important for tourism. Insufficient people aware of campaign to have fixed link. More negative than positive publicity is generaly aired in the press. Local MP does not appear to be interested in positive aspects of the of having a fixed link. The IOW is a unique tranquil tourist destination,the holiday starts for most by boarding one of the Ferries ! take this away and I feel the tourism will flounder?If a fixed link is put in place you might get day visitors,but the the Mini/Weekly breaks will decline-Maybe a subsidy for Island residents using the Ferries for work/business would be more cost effective all round ?Please keep the Island as an Island as my fear it will change dramatically for the worse with a fixed link! you should be talking up the Island and what it can offer rather than talking it down saying it needs a fixed link! Finally where is the money coming from for this fixed link??? Increase in traffic on the island and to and from the mainland; loss of insular attractiveness and distictiveness; loss of tourism and employment; degregation of environment and air quality; reduction of safety and health of residents and visitors. too many people against it A bridge would be better. will lead to job losses will spoil our island it is not needed divide islanders Because I love island life. If I wanted to be joined to the mainland, I would move there. I absolutely do not want a fixed link A road only concept is totally wrong - this must be a road only link. If there is ever a fixed link it would be the biggest mistake for the island. Young people would never be able to afford to buy a home they would be priced out of the market. House values would rocket (not such a good thing) mainlanders would choose to live here and commute back. The island would become another nasty overcowded, crime ridden, traffic congested place, that is no different from any other place in GB. More effort should be placed on tackling the ferry companies for reduced fares for islanders. Stupid people that complain about high volumes of traffic in Newport at the moment would certainly have something to complain about if a fixed link was ever built. You should be careful what you wish for. Those of us who have moved to the Isle of Wight have moved here to live because of the 'difference' to the mainland. The island has a uniqueness that is not replicated elsewhere. Also the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty would be spoilt by having a more tourists here. PAGE 146 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • For all the reasons as above in no 9. I should also add that if you remove the barrier of cost to getting here, we will not just be opening the door to increased tourism. We already have a substantial drug problem on the island and it will be much easier for them to get here, and crime would no doubt increase substantially also as less desirable "tourists" also arrive on the island. No one likes paying for the ferry, or the queing etc but to preserve our quality of life here on the island , it is, on balance, a very small price to pay. The IOW is a small Island and that is the way we want the Island to stay. Roads would not cpoe with the extra traffic. People who move to the Island come here because it is an Island. If they do not like it they can move back to the mainland. You really have no idea about tunnels I have answered negative simply because in my opinion, a fixed link is not necessary Tunnel or Bridge. The Isle of Wight is what it is.In any case, who would fund this colossal project? They can't even put a fixed link across the River Medina after haggling for decades and wasting hundreds of thousands of pounds of council tax payers money! If all you in favour of this hideous idea thinks it would be cheaper to use than the conventional current cross Solent transport systems, then you are in Cuckoo land. Another fact to consider, there would be hundreds of jobs lost. NO, the Isle of Wight has managed down through the centuries as a true Island. Let's keep it that way. "Likelihood of significant increase in traffic congestion problems on the island Likelihood of significant increase in number of crimes on the island " a fixed link would make us a suburb of either Portsmouth or Southampton and a great deal of building would ensue, destroying the Island as we know it. not needed it will ruin our island spoil the island waste of time & money will end up dearer than the ferries loss of jobs in ferry industry it will discourage prospective employers from setting up on the island and encourage existing employers to move to the mainland and would increase the prospect of the island becoming a dormitory town or a theme park for day trippers "Environmental, property price/rent rise, infrastructure. We live on an island, its always been an island - deal with it. People commute to work from rural areas to cities all over UK. Our problem is the ferry prices, which leads to all other problems. Mainland commuters face rising rail prices, strikes and traffic jams. Welcome to 21st century." Really both, negative on the effect it will have on the Island but positive in that the current super profits made by the ferry companies will be eradicated As 9. There would be no control over the amount of traffic coming to the Island. Potential for criminal element to increase not wanted by majority of islanders will spoil the island It would destroy large areas of Island beauty. It would lose the feel of actually getting away from the rat race that you get at the moment when the ferry sails. The roads and sub-strata would suffer and be unable to survive the influx vehicles. The Island has a uniqueness that would be lost the moment the fixed link opened. It is that which is why the Island has played a large part in my life for the last 56 years and why I am involved with so many organisations on it. PAGE 147 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • will split the island Crime rates will rise sharply, including vehicle theft, burglaries, and violent crimes (muggings). Island roads won't cope with increased volumes of traffic. Also, house prices will rise, making housing unaffordable to islanders (it will only be an hour and a half commute to London by car). Infrastructure not suitable Existing 'island atmosphere' would be diminished Destruction of unique environment and atmosphere of iow with consequent detriment to tourist trade. No man is an Island - but an Island IS an Island. It would detract from the spirit of the place to join it to the mainland. will divide the Island not necessary will cost to much People who want a connection to the mainland should go and live there. There is no point living on an island only to connect it fully to the mainland. As above will be to expensive end up a white elephant The answer is public transport. A link, being a major investment, would have to be costed over 50 years. Private and petrol driven transport will not be around by then. A road tunnel is simply short sighted and would raise too many issues of congestion, pollution and safety. A rail tunnel is the blindingly obvious solution. "The idea of a fixed link is ill convceived and would ruin this fantastic location. It would open up criminality, and although we must encourage tourism, we must also limit the vehicle movement onto the island. The cost would also be prohibitive and at a time of dramatic cutbacks is illogical and wrong. What we have works and works well, leave that aspect of the island alone!" Why should the council use tax payers money on a link that would be funded by private money. How do you limit the amount of traffic coming to the island, say on a sunny bank holiday weekend??The island infastructure is not fit for purpose today. How do you think it will cope with extra heavy traffic? will not be cost effective We are an island. I wouldn't want it to be as busy as the mainland that's why most of us chose to live here. People who keep moaning about boats being cancelled should move to the mainland. will spoil the island will be too expensive we can't afford it I would refer once again to the word ISLAND! We live on an island for a reason....to be seperate from the mainland. This is the attraction of an island. OK it might push prices up on certain things but it is worth it. If people don`t like this then let them live on the mainland. Also it is much safer. "Negative because ,would change the island for the worse. Would lose its unique character, bring more crime . What really needs to happen is more intense pressure on the ferry companies to change their practices and lower prices. This questionaire not satisfactory as regards question, why on earth can you not use same number twice !!!!" I feel a fixed link would adversely effect our whole infrastructure, I don't feel our hospital could cope with more people over here, and I feel we would lose the essence of our beautiful island. PAGE 148 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A fixed link would impose huge burdens on the Island infrastructure and destroy its essential social and environmental character Cost of building it. Cost of using it. Time to construct it. Likelihood of closure due to accident, maintenance requirements, system failures or other event. Wherever the entrance and exit are located it will only suit a minority of travellers. Land area needed to accommodate the entrance, toll booths etc. Unsuitable for anyone with claustrophobia! The Island would no longer be an Island and so a lot of the fun of getting there will disappear. Being the only island off the South coast will no longer be special any more. We will just become another place to go to. Not wanted See previous answer. Bad idea all round, would spoil island. The island's best asset is that it is an island, there is massive potential for tourism that is not being taken, with tourism comes growth, investment and business. A fixed link will make us just another county. it will ruin the island waste of money A road tunnel would cause additional congestion on an already overloaded and inadequate road system. I would prefer a rail tunnel branching off at Brading, following the line of the former railway to Bembridge, diving under the Solent and picking up the formation of the former Hayling Island branch, joining the main line at Havant. will cost to much unaffordable Current road system cannot support the likely increased traffic. "Insufficient infrastructure on Isle of Wight to cope with increased traffic. The cost to people at both ends who don't want such a link. Not needed or wanted by anyone on mainland. " it'll be a White Elephant we can't afford to waste money on this Although the island has it's issues a roadlink would change the island for the worse. House and land prices would soar. you can shove a fixed link up your arse! A fixed link would turn the island into a poor suburb of portsmouth due to lower house prices, a huge spike in crime as the island currently has a very complacent attitude to crime prevention. A fixed link would ruin the uniqueness of the island. I would not want to live here any more. it will ruin our coastline Don't do it. Take island is fine as it is. This will bring crime and undesirables to our neighbourhood. House price will drop and our road infrastructure will also suffer. We've managed this for years without a link so why do this now. I can only assume it's people originally from the mainland that want the link. You will destroy what the island means. IW Council doesn't have money for the things that really matter. Why waste it on this survey. Greed, laziness and self interest are not Island traits and a fixed link request is driven by people with those values The island roads cannot cope with the traffic that is here now, particularly in the summer. Also the fact we are an island WITHOUT a link is what makes us special. If you don't like it, MOVE TO THE MAINLAND! I am strongly opposed to any form of fixed link. The population of this small isle would increase impacting on the environment and natural beauty. It will spoil the view The cost would be astronomical for a small Island - this funding will have to come from somewhere. The road network being 'improved' by Island Roads currently is failing, with PAGE 149 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • most of the Island's road foundations being of a very poor quality - with a tidy-for-now new surface. The roads could not cope with an influx of traffic Because Thomas Cowley is involved because Carl Feeney is involved Infrastructure to cope with it both sides of solent, where it would enter the island, the environmental impact and if it will truly be beneficial for the island and islanders alike will ruin the island The charm (what is left of it) is due entirely to the fact that the IOW is an island. A fixed link would be an abnormally expensive project & would change the whole character of the island. Granted it would make off-island travel easier, but at what cost (financially & socially). It would be better to concentrate one's efforts into looking at ways to improve the current cross-solent transportation modes & costs. It would destroy the Island's character A fixed link would bring more traffic, some towns and their road systems cannot cope with traffic now Please see above. What we do need is better ferry services, especially Yarmouth to Lymington where the last evening ferry is around 9pm. Current island road infrastructure cannot cope with extra traffic that generate from a fixed link to the mainland. I moved to the Island, because it is an island. If you want a fixed link to the Mainland, then move there. No one on the Island is stopping you from doing this. Just because you want to be joined to the Mainland don't ruin the Island for everyone else. The Island is special because it hasn't got a fixed link. As soon as a fixed link is created this uniqueness will be lost and it will just become a rich commuter suburb for Southampton and Portsmouth. I was born and grew up on the Island. There are so many reasons why I feel negative, but principally, the beauty and the attraction of an island is that it is surrounded by water and not connected to any other land. People love it because it is different from the mainland and you have to make the effort, travel by boat, to get there. Do not make it just another part of Hampshire. because the infostructer at the moment cannot handle the traffic on the roads at the moment so unless you upgrade every road on the island so it becomes one giant motorway you are wasting the money by having a fixed link As a frequent visitor I feel some of the charm of the Island would be lost by simply driving through a tunnel. Also having been stuck for periods in heavy traffic on the Island during the summer I feel this problem would only get worse. loss of jobs on the ferries will ruin our lovely island A fixed link will change the overall feel and atmosphere of the island. As someone who lived for many years on the mainland and has seen the way that it has changed over the years I feel that the special feeling of being away from it all will be lost if a fixed link is introduced. The appeal of coming on holiday to the island is partly because it is an island, not a part of the mainland, a fixed link will ultimately lead to the island becoming like any other seaside town on the mainland, used and abused... I saw the destruction in Southampton when the Itchen bridge was built. Lots of lovely houses and peoples lives turned upside down. If people are so determined to ruin our Island they must be stopped at all costs. Being an Island retains our character, charm and individuality. too costly Being an isolated mostly rural community it feels a much safer, calmer, less polluted and friendlier environment. Am not sure the cost of a fixed link would justify loosing this! don't need it PAGE 150 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ferries act as valve. Island infrastructure cannot cope with increased traffic and population The Island is special. The pace of life is slower which attracts tourists. I choose to live here because it is NOT part of the mainland; if a fixed link is ever created, it may as well be. It would introduce more traffic, more people, and no doubt more crime. Not sure the island infrastructure can cope with the extra people/traffic A fixed link would totally ruin the peace and tranquility that this special island affords us. St Mary's Hospital would be closed within months of any fixed link opening. My fears are that if a car link is agreed that this will affect house prices and tourism on the Island. Who would live in Portsmouth or Southampton if they could commute easily from the Island. This could push housing prices significantly making it more difficult for locals to buy houses. Hotels would definitely suffer and the knock on effect would be on eating places. Parking at beaches is already horrendous - anybody who has been in the area around West Witterings in the Summer knows about traffic congestion and the impossibility to park. Having to plan to travel is part of life on the Island and part of what makes it special. Ideally the ferries should be more competitive and run til later at night especially on a weekend. Our roads cannot cope with the increase in traffic that a fixed link would bring. There would be an increase in house prices due to an influx of people who would see the Island as an attractive place to move to. I want my children to be able to get on the property ladder if they choose to remain here. With the state of the NHS at the moment there would be an increased likelihood of our hospital being closed. Risk of grey squirrels making it to the Island. As a resident of Essex we are used to the criminal element from London preying on us, tunnel to island will make it very accessible to them and the more trusting residents on island would be targeted. We are also inundated with 'travelers ' in summer, however, they may prefer to holiday in Iow if more accessible. Also feel it won't be good for island business as residents will go to Portsmouth or Southampton for shopping. Good for IKEA perhaps. Bound to be more traffic so more pollution and more money would be need to be spent on roads. Special island status would go. The island would be overwhelmed with gyppos coming on a stealing day out. Damage to environment. Increased traffic problems. See above The environment and tourism would be negatively affected without any evidence of the benefit to residents The IoW would cease to be an island, and lose the individuality and tourism benefits that go with that status The Islands main selling point and what makes it the place it is - is it is an Island. It is not a suburb of Portsmouth. The only people interested in this are the ones interested in making short term ££££. Forget - go away. Leave the Island in peace. Leave it as an island. That's why we live here and why tourists come. Our island roads are not suitable/fit for more traffic. Coaches should be banned. We should have smaller narrow coaches on the Island which tourists use when once on the Island. "To many vehicles will just make the island feel like living on the mainland, (it would need to be a rail link tunnel which connects to island line)" The character of the Island IS that it is an island. Tourist business will be lost with the loss of that character without the gain of other sorts of employment unless the links is totally free. And pigs might fly. Island residents should benefit from Miles Equivalent Tarriff in the same way as residents of Scottish islands not already linked by a bridge. "-negative impact on the natural Environment at the entrance to the area, wherever you put it it will have significant impact on nature. PAGE 151 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • -aesthetically it will be seen by a large proportion of the island reducing the visiual amenity for the island and therefore loss of tourism. -the island will become a commuter belt to London thereby driving up house prices and so islanders can't get a house. - the island will become a suburb of Portsmouth and Southampton inheriting its crime problems etc. I do note the issues of education, etc on the island. - the fixed link is wanted largely by people, who want all the accessibility and lifestyle of the mainland but then want to escape it by living on the island. You can't have it both ways and the life you are trying to escape when you come back to the island will be no more if there is a fixed link. -the islands infrastructure simply can't cope. Look at the rural roads, too small and too poor. There will be more accidents. - we should be proud that we are an island and the life it gives, it isn't a lavish one for myself and majority of islanders but we are happy with what we have. I would like more money and more opportunities but that doesn't outway the lifestyle the island gives. " "I.O.W. would become a 'suburb' of Portsmouth / Southampton - including all the negative points of both those cities. IOW does not in any shape or form have the infrastructure to cater for additional traffic on the island. Holiday trade would diminish as the Island became a 'day trip' destination. IOW is an ISLAND - clue is in the name...........? Energy should be spent improving the Island as an Island, instead of wasting time and effort on 'fixed links' just because the ferry times don't suit people. Concentrate on Improving the ferry service first ! " I am opposed to a fixed link. It will bring more crime to the Island, as well as traffic and pollution. It would also take away the "magic" The IOW already suffers severely from traffic congestion. Making it easier for people to travel here will compound that problem. A link in the name of "progress" would be a very sad day for the IOW. "More cars would make more congestion, more air pollution and have very little benefit for the Island as a whole. It would encourage day trippers, who are more likely to bring their own beach gear and food, instead of buying from local outlets. Litter would increase, leading to further environmental pollution. No objection to a rail link, in fact this would have benefits." It's a pipe dream to have a feasibile foxed link. And even if it was feasible, there is no infrastructure, nor likely to be one, on either side of the Solent. Far better to investigate the apparent cartel of the 2 ferry companies. A fixed link would also reduce the Island to a dormitory for the nearby mainland cities. it would totally spoil the beauty of the island. The Island's roads are already too busy and the 'mainland' rat-raced style of life is already encroaching upon us. If people want a bridge or a tunnel, then shame on them for wanting to spoil this beautiful little island! I feel that if there was ever a fixed link then the Island would not be an Island anymore. It is a lovely place to live and bring up your children, we don't need more traffic on the roads, more building work, more land being taken to create access for tunnels, the island is unique and it should stay that way . "There's a bit of a clue in the title really- ISLE of Wight. Whatever site is picked on the Island there will be objections from nearby residents. Whatever site is picked on the mainland there will be objections from nearby residents so the scheme is unlikely to ever get off the ground. PAGE 152 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Island roads are already in an awful condition and unable to cope with the traffic we already have. A fixed link could create extra traffic entering and leaving the Island from one point, causing even longer queues than we already have. If you are honest about the costs involved people are unlikely to vote in favour of a fixed link because we would be paying just as much to get across as we do on the ferry." Most complaints I hear / have are about the costs due to the monopoly of 2 ferry companies. A fixed link would defeat the whole purpose of coming to live 'on an Island', or coming for a holiday away from the pace of life on the mainland. Other alternatives could include allowing other companies to operate across the Solent without being driven out of business by the existing ones. we don't need a fixed link I think a barrage would be better as it would generate constant electricity for the Isle of Wight and provide a fixed link for road traffic. Many services including St Mary's will all move to the mainland. Excessive gridlock. The Isle of Wight is an island if you don't like it move to the mainland. The majority of the fixed link antagonists are mainlanders so no comment. Do not support a non starter project and pander to the few. THE QUESTIONS ABOVE ARE LOADED ONE WAY? gridlock on the island can hardly drive around now without traffic jams, crime will increase, "I like our island as it is, crossing the Solent via water transportation is part of the islands charm. Having tourists pop over for a day impacts negatively on our beaches and to our accommodation stays such as beach hut rentals, B&B's and hotels. Heavy traffic during the summer months leaves our roads congested and commute times for locals doubles. Road ware increases with big coaches! The view from Tennyson will be spoilt with a bridge or tunnel entrances. There is no need for a fixed link, either tunnel or bridge! I moved here because of the ferry crossing! A water crossing to the island aids in the de-stress our island is known for and what people come here for, stress free and relaxation. " Island businesses will demise, tourism will demise, crime will rise. "The Isle of Wight is unique by the sheer fact it is an island part of the adventure to tourist is the journey across on the ferries. Any spare money should spent on improving the island facilities. We have already had a number feasibility study's wasting £££££ all ending with the same result. The only people who seem to want keep resurrecting this are people who have relocated to the island ,why on earth having moved here because of its beauty and uniqueness do they want to change it. I was born and bred on the on the island and proud of it, if the people who have moved here feel that the facilities that are in place already are not up to what they require then perhaps the island and island life is not for them." It would drastically change the Island's economy and affect many businesses negatively, as it opens up the Island to mainland competitors. I moved to an Island because it was an Island, if I wanted to be part of the mainland I would move back . I am concerned about the negative effect on ferry services, particularly to Southampton. Travel time for me could be tripled if the only route off the island is by tunnel, followed by additional transport into the city. There are currently several points at which one can travel to the mainland - these could potentially be reduced to one single point. I am concerned about environmental and social effects on the island and mainland. Our status as an island is what makes us special. I would far rather see a determined campaign to reduce ferry costs. "Crime is low compared to Southampton or Portsmouth. Fixed link will make travel easier and cheaper for criminals to and from the IOW. For those residents who don't enjoy living on the Island, perhaps they'd be happier moving to Portsmouth or Southampton? PAGE 153 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I have numbered the options to Q8 sequentially without any regard as to what the options are. I am happy with current connections to the mainland and do not want a FS on a fixed link. Q8 is biased as it assumes a FS will take place, disappointed with this biais. " Silly poll - if you don't agree with a feasibility study, why should you still have to list the factors in order of importance? At this time the council has neither the money or the time to even consider this. Tourism will be ruined. At the moment the Isle of Wight has a exciting factor of travelling on a ferry to get there. With it being a tunnel i personally feel it would ruin the experience. "It would ruin the Island if i wanted live on the mainland I would of moved there I work there already. The people who want an fixed link will always moan let them move off and stop winginig about Isalnd life." "As an Islander, who has made a conscious choice after university to return to the Island, I know and accept that accessibility of this region is limited by cost, weather and other conditions. As an undergraduate student my dissertation was on the accessibility of the Isle of Wight, with a focus on a fixed link. I did not conclude that the perceived benefits of a fixed link would outweigh the cost (both environmental and economic). One of the unique points of the Isle of Wight is that it is an island. Having travelled to other islands in the UK that are connected to the mainland via a fixed link, there is something missing. People may be encouraged to visit (e.g. Anglesey) however they are not encouraged to stay or to spend money on what might be only a visit of a few hours. Because people have to take a ferry to the Island, they stay longer (either low budget camping or the more expensive option of cottage or hotel) and therefore contribute more to the economy of the Island. I still believe that the ferry companies hold a monopoly over access to the Isle of Wight and this is what needs to be addressed at a national level, not the expense and environmental destruction caused by a fixed link. If the Island were to be connected to the mainland with a fixed link, I and my family, would seriously consider a move to the Isle of Man where they fully understand and accept that being an island is what makes the experience of living and staying there unique (and their ferries are far more expensive than ours! I know this as we'll be visiting for the second time in May)." The ferry limit amount of cars entering IOW a fixed link road would mean a constant flow of traffic the roads could become gridlocked the laid back feel of the isle would be destroyed I much prefer a rail link A fixed link would be a good excuse to close our local hospital and force islanders to travel further for healthcare. This is already happening on the mainland. Tourists would only come over on day trips meaning hotels would struggle even more and many would close. Many visitors see coming over on the ferry as an exciting start to their holiday. This is the case with many of my friends who come to stay. Our roads can barely cope with the traffic we have now, a fixed link would add more cars, especially in the summer. Crime would increase as it would make it easier and quicker for criminals to come and go, the ferries act as a deterrent. There is a big risk of the island becoming a dormitory for Southampton, Portsmouth, and even London. This could drive the cost of houses up making it even more difficult for local people to afford to live here. This is happening in the west country and in other rural parts of the country. please don't encourage the council to waste money on any studies for this proposal which, as in previous cycles, will go nowhere . Thanks Too easy access would spoil Iskand life as we know it. Without the 'time out' on the ferries, cars coming down the M27 at 100mph will not slow down because they are on a fixed link - they will hit the Island roads at high speed. PAGE 154 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Upgrading the Island roads to motorway standards will destroy not only the life of Island people, it will change the Island completely and tourists will no longer visit. I'm 26 years old, and feel that there are no positives to having a fixed link! "Too costly. other things to better spend the money on. Too much land taken to site a tunnel entrance and exit. Mainland residents would be against having a tunnel entrance/exit in their area" If a fixed link was built this island would lose all its stores and hospital downgraded, fire service cut, island would become retirement wasteland This would cause massive destruction of wildlife habitat both on the Island and on the mainland. Many new roads would be needed over here, including a Newport bypass, with consequent destruction.. At present crime is lower than the mainland but would no doubt increase with a tunnel as it would be easier to leave. I just can't understand why people living on an Island want to be part of the mainland. If you don't like the Solent crossing, look how near the mainland is. Stop wasting your time and effort. If you choose to live on an island then you have to submit to accessing a ferry or other vehicle to get to the mainland. Although its expensive to cross that is the reward for living in such a beautiful place The answer is in the word Island. Usual thing people come to live here and then complain about ferry costs. We've been paying the ferry costs for years, get used to it or go elsewhere. The idea of a fixed link had been around for years it's nothing new, the Island is decreasing in size with erosion so why try to consider a fixed link which would imoact greatly on the environment. The Island is an Island and that is its charm. The roads on the Island would not be able to cope with all the traffic that would come over if there was a fixed link, its bad enough now in the summer. The problems with employment, NHS etc would still exist because they are not unique to the Island. Comparing the Island to the Isle of Skye is ridiculous because the Isle of Skye is in remote Scotland and does not have the population living on the 'mainland' that the Isle of Wight does, or the tourists. Not everything in life is about getting somewhere quicker, faster! Road infrastructure could not support the inevitable increase in traffic. The number of second home owners would increase significantly and kill off communities - just look at Bembridge now. Traffic would increase. Crime would increase. Insurance would increase. Attractiveness as a holiday destination would decrease substantially. Train tunnel would have less impact The Island is unable to take a great influx of cars that would arrive should there be some kind of fixed link if (which I doubt) the cost was cheaper than the ferries unique island leave it alone We are an island and that's the reason I live in this beautiful place. I agree the ferry is very expensive and that should be looked at but I really want us to stay an island. I feel if people don't like that they should move away. not needed It would ruin the Island in every way. we will get all the people over here at one time and our roads wont cope we will get all the people who we don't want and crime will go up As above, would bring many small Island businesses to their knees trying to compete with nationals. Catastrophic to the people we need for this Island to work for. . PAGE 155 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It will exacerbate not solve many of the Island's problems. More Incoming traffic will simply make it less desirable for all and hasten the pace of decline, given the weakness and self-interest of those in Council. Because Its gunna bring more traffic and it's not fair on the ferry services We currently have an amazing eco system which includes red squirrels; if we have a fixed link there would be a high likelihood of invasion by the grey squirrel. In addition a fixed link would mean more people would wish to live on the island; we have some wonderful villages that would be spoilt by builders. The infrastructure would be worsened, we already have heavy erosion & more building would mean a further strain on water drainage, etc. I believe that more people would also cause far more traffic on roads that are unsuitable for heavy vehicles and high numbers of cars. There would be a higher likelihood of more frequent crime on an island that is currently relatively safe. In addition I do not want to live in an area that is merely an ignored suburb of Portsmouth & Southampton, I would like to the Isle of Wight to be its own autonomous county. "The Island would no longer be an island, it would be like any other part of Hampshire and have to compete with them on equal terms. Being an island brings a distinctive character which may be to our advantage in some situations and maybe not in others, but at least we have the opportunity to exploit the difference where we can. People who haven't lived in a city don't appreciate how comfortable it is to live in a lowcrime area, and we should keep it that way. We've got a defensive moat! " will ruin the Island Utterly impractical and exhorbitant build cost This beautiful Island is unique and a fixed link makes it just another bit of the mainland. Negative to the overall welfare of the Island. It will mean the island will become more congested and crime will increase. The islands road network will not cope with any additional traffic and peoples lives will be changed forever. I love the peace and tranquillity as it is and this overweighs ANY benefit of linking to the mainland.There is no positive argument. will go from a duopoly to a monoply I choose to live on an "Warts & All". A fixed link would only serve to increase traffic, crime & pollution. It would appear to be only those that are interested in themselves and not the Island community & way of live that seem to be keen to pursue a fixed link. The holiday industry would be destroyed as everyone would just come over on day trips,there would also be much more traffic clogging up the Island roads.Cornwall have exactly the same problems as we have & they are not an island,they have roads clogged with traffic & their children usually have to leave the County to find work What part of "island" isn't understood? The Isle of Wight is an Island ? A fixed link to the mainland would rob the Isle of Wight of its identity. NO FIXED LINK ! A fixed link will remove all other options Ferries etc. What then happens when it is closed Removing the ferry crossing 'security barrier' will ruin everything that makes it what it is to live on the island today. "Many, many people were born, or moved here, because they enjoy island life. A fixed link would be a disaster. IOW council cannot maintain basic facilities/environmental issues for current residents/visitors. A simple example: If it were not for numerous (mainly unrecognised) local groups and individuals cleaning up, the island would be even dirtier, and more litter strewn than it is now. The inevitable increased population and 'through traffic' would ruin the island. Add to that the inevitable increase in crime in currently 'sleepy' locations, and the sharp rise in 'no go' PAGE 156 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • areas. That leads to re-housing vulnerable residents in (non-existent) housing. It would cost so much more to mop up the effects of a fixed link .... and we can't afford current necessities. It's a no- brainer!" We will then become part of Hampshire and I fear we will lose the Hospital and Prisons etc, reducing the wages on the Island. Nobody is actually going to pay for it so unless it's a viable proposition for a regulated private company I feel it's never going to happen. Even if it was decided to build it, it won't happen in my lifetime, so I have no interest in our taxes being spent on a white elephant either. Too busy. Too much traffic on poor roads and more crime "i believe that it will increase the risk of crime on the Isle of Wight and also create a monopoly that will eventually destroy the ferry services entirely, which will then give the owner of the toll on the fixed link the oppurtunitiy to charge more than the ferries did if desired. i also believe that it will take our island status away from us." The ferrys are an important part of the islands attraction. Any tunnel will compleatly wipe out the ferrys Potential risk to island health/social services and complete transfer of, increased pressure to utilise greenbelt land for potential increase in Islands population, already congested roads, potential decrease in tourism due to losing 'island' status. I was born and raised on the Island and have always valued my Island identity. A method of bringing traffic to the Island which is cheaper and faster is a crazy idea. We practically have gridlock already at times. I say to all overners who want to change the nature of the Island "why don't you go back to where you came from?" It is not thought through at all. Not one mainland local authority wants it, and I have not met one person along the South coast who wants it anywhere near them See all the above VERY NEGATIVE! With a fixed link, it could no longer be considered an island......and would thus lose it's tourist charm and main form of income. It would be difficult to justify separate governance and would fully become an extension of Hampshire. This is AN ISLAND. If this is a problem then the ferries provide an exit route. A tunnel, or bridge, would change that. Also we currently have 3 exit routes, a link would reduce that to one. Try googling 'Dartford tunnel closure' and count the hits - or any other tunnel, or bridge. Plus, many other factors. Lose of the Island's unique character. Fixed link will create over crowding and greater pressures on the environment. "Impact on road congestion, higher pollution levels and environmental impact plus of course cost would far out weigh the perceived benefits. Money would be better spent on accessing cheaper, more frequent ferry fares for residents. Note: Where is ""other"" on drop-down menu?" People on the mainland are envious of our island. We already have perfectly good links to the mainland. More than most islands. A fixed link would just bring crime and traffic. "Money. It's a waste (please see previous question) Plus we are an Island. I am proud to live on an island. I feel a fixed link would heavily detract from this. " See previous questions! There is too much uncertainty. The island would lose its identity. The feeling of escapism lost. As above Impact and cost will devestate the island and the environment. For what purpose other than to possibly travel to mainland slightly quicker. Pointless waste of money and time. PAGE 157 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "It would encourage 'Low life' day trippers. More drugs would come on to island. I like living on an island." The ferry costs are rather high, but if people think that a fixed link would address those concerns I don not feel it would. Also, the island has a unique quality because the only way onto it is over water... that is a big part of what makes the place special. The clue is in the name - it;s an Island "The Island infrastructure would not be able to cope without being detrimental to existing residents. Do not spend time and money debating this. There are far more viable and important issues to be debated and funded!!!" We do not need a fixed this would be a bad idea this is what makes the island unique and this would be a very expensive and how would they build this fixed link anyway, it would have to big enough to fit the tallest cruise liners through The island is special and to have a fixed entry would be horrendous for the future. I am someone who moved here from the mainland to get away from the traffic, gangs and crime. I don't want us to open the door to all the madness. Despite the fact that I spend a good deal of money on the ferry service as I travel to the island approx 25 time pa I believe a fixed link would destroy what is special about the island. I also think it would be unaffordable and would create too much traffic for the island to cope with, "Its an Island It should stay an Island." The IOW would cease to be a real Island! I like living on an Island - there are plenty of options for people who don't want to. Keeping the IOW 'special' will only enhance its' appeal to tourists. loss of identity NO FIXED LINK MOVED TO THE ISLAND BECAUSE ITS AN ISLAND Let's keep the Island as an island, not a New-Botley islands are a good thing a fixed link changes that. a rail link would be ok A fixed link takes away the unique feeling that the therapy of a holiday starts when on board the ferry. A fixed link is a boring featureless monotony which replicates any number of existing tunnels, e.g. Mersey, Rotherhide. In other words, you could be anywhere certainly NOT the I-o-W. The island should capitalize on its unique geographical position by retaining the fact it still IS an island. Current IW road network cannot cope with more traffic, We are an island. A link takes that status away and is a big attraction as far as tourism is concerned! The pro link group are belittling the opinions of islanders like myself who's family also happen to be islanders as far as the census can go..... "worse road chaos on IOW " Because we are an island! Many people, those who live here and those who don't have all said the same. When get on the boat and to the island a sense of peace and relaxation comes over you. Can see that being the case if you drive under ground for a period of time and come across a tail back because the world has decided to go to the Isle of Wight after taking granny out for Sunday lunch on the main land. All we get is pollution and traffic jams and shattered peace, nothing in the coffers etc. See answer to Q9 Not everything can be measured in economic terms. I believe the character and uniqueness of the Island will be negatively affected even if there were economic benefits. In the same way that people choose to live in the countryside for its peace and beauty rather than a city with easy transport and shops, I favour the disconnection from the mainland. PAGE 158 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Increase in crime inevitable with fixed link. Hospital, medical and education services under pressure - roads too congested already The IOW would cease to be an island, it would become part of Southampton. I do not want that. It will detract from the 'holiday' feel of the island. Most of our tourist when I have asked them choose Iow because it feels like they are going on holiday because they travel on a ferry. How many of these people will choose other places to visit if we had a fixed link? It's an island, a fixed link would make it a suburban car park of the mainland "Loss of business to larger mainland companies. Spread of business meaning I will have to travel further and work longer hours to stay afloat. Meaning less time with family." I am completely opposed to a fixed link. The island will become a glorified car park. The roads and villages will not cope with the influx of traffic, especially in summer. It will be like opening Pandora's box, never to be shut. For gods sake, wake up and smell the roses as to what you have there. I can't wait to move back...hopefully to an island with no fixed link. It's an island... it's the Island. With a fixed link, we just become a suburb of Portsmouth and even more of our services can be moved off the Island. Too costly Total nonsense. I live on an island as I chose to do so. The island will simply become a suburb of Portsmouth or southampton We are an island. Crime would increase our over subscribed doctors & hospitals could not cope. We are already sending people to the mainland for treatment. People would not pay to stay here if they could pop across in minutes so our torisum business would suffer I think that a fixed link would encourage mainland businesses to invest in the Island thus helping with unemployment on the Island.Easier access across theSolent would help the Island out of the backwater it finds itself at present. I think they should look at a road link If I wanted to live in an urban sprawl I would move to the mainland. Concerns about traffic, security, squirrels, movement around the Island roads at night. It would encourage more building when we would like the Island to remain an untouched rural environment. Negative as this would effect many issues for the Isle of Wight The roads on the Island could not cope with the increase in traffic. It would destroy the nature of the Island and I can see no way that the millions and millions of pounds it would cost to build the tunnel could be justified in the present economic climate. When there is no money to pay for the tunnel what is the point of paying for a feasibility study? I chose to live on an island. I enjoy crossing the Solent by ferry. I know many tourists that I speak to, friends and family that visit enjoy the ferry, for many they feel that it makes the visit more memorable, like they are truly 'getting away'. I can see some positive aspects to a fixed link, but I also see many negatives. None of the, arguments I've heard have any strength to them, particularly. A fixed link for me would certainly remove some of the charm of living here. I absolutely do not think it is money that the Council should be spending, there are far higher priorities for the budget. I do think alternatives should be considered, constantly, but these should be with development of economically and environmentally friendly alternatives to travel, for which I don't believe there are, at this time. Infrastructure doesn't exist to support large scale traffic increases It will become as bad as the main land at the moment it is a great place to be Increased traffic flow. Plus, Islanders feel very proud and protective of the IOW and many choose to live here because it is separate from the mainland. A fixed link would destroy this special status. PAGE 159 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I think it is negative, because although it is painfully expensive to use the boat, those boat prices mean that we don't get gypsies, or undesirables over here. "We would lose our identity as an Island. It is the separation from the mainland which gives the Isle of Wight its unique atmosphere, more peaceful and safe way of living. Please dont ask the council to waste our money with this idea, when we should be putting it into social care and education on the Isle of Wight." A road link would increase traffic to an unacceptable level on the island. I would only be in favour of a rail link. I firmly believe that more money would leave the island due to retail spend by residents, than would be spent by mainlanders visiting the island. There would be a negative trade differential that would further jeopardise the island economy. It's an island and if people don't like living on an island they should move to the mainland - it should be developed and invested in for it's uniqueness as an island. It should be viewed as an independent entity and funded accordingly by Central government . All that the bridge will result in is rich pickings for developers - both the construction of the bridge / tunnel - or whatever 'fixed link' is in fashion and afterwards on the island - but then it would if still be an island ? The beauty of our island is that is an island not an add on to the mainland "There are far too many cut backs in social care and all public resources, emergency services etc already on the Island. How on earth would this fixed link be funded? The Island's infrastructure can't cope with the population of the Island now. Surely a fixed link will make matters worse. Also the Island is a tourist attraction because it is an Island. A fixed link will mean that it's not really an Island anymore. There are far bigger problems on the Island at the moment than the need for a fixed link. Money should be spent on healthcare, education and emergency services. " There is no evidence to suggest a fixed link will produce any of the benefits claimed. If people want to live on an island with a fixed link go and live in Portsmouth. The money would be better invested in giving the island a better education and health system with real investment. Even with a fixed link why would businesses choose the island? Plain and simple it's an Island, part of the fun of a holiday over here as a child was the thought of it starting with a trip on a boat. I'm fed up hearing how it's going to solve all failing businesses and dying towns over here, these people clearly haven't actually travelled around much on the mainland, it's happening all over the country because of internet shopping etc. Short term people think they're going to save so much money on ferry fares but £10 fare on fixed link wouldn't be guaranteed to stay that way for ever, especially when repairs needed in time. My husband travels to Southampton to work every day and doesn't want a fixed link, gets a bit more work done on the jet home, couldn't if he had to drive. The red jet fares are probably subsidised by car ferry rates as well so those that say carry on using the jet when the fixed links built, it wouldn't happen as the prices for that would go up. If it's only10 mins drive away the NHS could close our hospital to save money therefore taking away jobs from the island. Sick of hearing how we are selfish and don't like change for disagreeing about this, all entitled to our opinion don't have to agree just coz they try and shout and swear opposition down. Also just because funding for feasibility study is coming from a central source it's still money that could be better spent elsewhere. I feel a rail link would be more beneficial than a road link and may prove to be more popular as it will not lead to an increase in car traffic which is one of the biggest concerns people have. I believe a fixed link would jeopardise the uniqueness of the Island as a community and that the positive aspects in terms of accessibility would be outweighed by the negative e.g. impact on hospitality industry, devolution of services to the mainland and therefore subsequent loss of jobs and income. PAGE 160 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Isle of Wight will no longer enjoy the benefits of being an island. The purpose of the link (according to Macquarie Bank) is to facilitate opportunities for an Australian mining company to frack the island for gas and to provide opportunities for large property developers. The unique character of the Island would be destroyed, we would become a dormitory for Portsmouth Fareham and Southampton, I like living on an island. I like the sea journey to get here as do all my friends and rellies... If you want to be attached to the mainland, then go and live there. I commuted to Portsmouth and London from freshwater every day for 6 years so I know the problems, and I still would not want a bridge! It's called the Isle of Wight - we choose to live on an ISLAND. If you don't like it then move to the Mainland - don't force YOUR ideals on the rest of us. We don't want it or need it. IoW would become another dormitory settlement for the central south coast Push up house prices due to lots of second homes, local businesses will suffer from increased access to services on the mainland, increased crime. This is an Island, it needs control on how much traffic comes on the Island. If people that need a tunnel or fixed link, do they really want to live on the Island. They are free to move to the mainland. End of their problem. This is a very special place and a fixed link would detract from that big time. It seems like such a waste compared to an affordable ferry service. We pay such obscene amounts to travel compared to people from other islands. A fixed link seems to be overlooking the most obvious solution. People love the Island because it's exactly that....an Island. Many parts are unspoilt and should remain that way. Just because a handful of people find it an inconvenience to have to travel by boat to get here or away isn't a good enough reason to be wasting monies that could be put to better use elsewhere in my opinion. For my above reasons I have made a conscious decision to live on an Island. If I had wanted to live on the mainland I would have moved there. The road system on the Island can barely support the current number of cars let alone at more. I feel there is a very real chance that crime would also increase. Might be worth looking at the impact the fixed link had on the Island of Skye !! Benefits to the isle of wight and it's people. NOT RUING THEM OFF.Not just giving wight link and red funnle a new way to monopolise the travel to and from.Being particularly carefully to keep.the island ENGLISH. .!! AND NOT RUINING IT WITH IMMIGRANTS FROM ALL.OVER THE WORLD (( MUSLIMS ESPECIALLY )) like far too many areas of the mainland are currently being besieged ! ! I love people. From all walks of life.. but our country is being changed for the worse and our good nature being abused...The island is too fragile and too small to cope with these abuses.. as is our whole country.. ! Leave MY ISLAND ALONE !! 😠😠 The national infrastructure cannot affford nor accommodate such a project. The Island cannot cope with such traffic as a tunnel would generate. Realistically the Island would become a dormitory area for Southampton and Portsmouth. Tourism would be seriously affected. Too much traffic, adverse environmental issues and turning the island into something it isn't and doesn't need to be i.e. suburb of Portsmouth or surrounding area. "more crime will be committed on island easier to arrive / leave island after burglaries etc ports can be alerted at present if crime reported quick enough eg house burglary / vehicle crime / shop bank etc theft " PAGE 161 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • To many people and criminals having easy access to the island and the resultant loss of hospital etc which will inevitablely follow It means the Isle will loose its uniqueness. It will make it easier for people to come here who are not intending to have a positive effect on the island. Ferry jobs will be lost. As above plus a toll would still need to be charged. Taking the ferry for many tourists actually makes the holiday for them. A link would encourage more daybtripoers spending less money it would devastat tourism. The traffic generated by a link would bring the island to gridlock who wants to come here on holiday and sit in traffic. We should be working with the ferries to encourage green tourism. "I believe that the roads on the Island are already insufficient for the current level of traffic without making it easier for even more traffic to cross over " We have a unique way of life here which is a lot safer and healthier than that on the mainland. This fixed link will be very costly and this money could be better used on the health service. We are Islanders and want to stay islanders, I wonder how many of you are ? It is not a magic fix for unemployment etc. Crime rates would go up, traffic would get worse, roads would deteriorate quicker and all the other stuff that would go with increased traffic. I lived on the island for 40 years,my family still do.As the name suggests it is an ISLAND. Any fixed link would be detrimental to the character of the Island. The cost would far outweigh the benefits to Islanders. The ISLE of wight is exactly that, an isle which is not connected to the mainland IOW will lose is unique identity. If I wanted to be part of the mainland I would have stayed there. I chose to come and live here purely because of it's unique qualities. Let's put our energies into negotiating better rates with the ferry companies for Islanders, I'd rather spend money on more important things like the NHS, education and other essential services. I don't want a fixed link with a never ending increase in traffic. Island roads can't cope with the current population, any increase would have a detrimental affect on the environment. I am all for an Island owned non profit making ferry service. to many issues - traffic, safety, environmental etc with a road tunnel. far better to have a rail tunnel Its obvious so doesnt need explaining in my opinion there is nothing positive in any way about a fixed link its totaly not feasible end of In my opinion it will have a massive negative impact on the delicate exo systems the island has, traffis is horrendous in winter let alone summer and adding to it will make things worse, it will encourage second homes which we have too many as it is, competition to trades will increase and more than likely put small island companies in a worse position, it will give the government another reason to cut healthcare on the island and put more pressure on hospitals in portsmouth and southampton Our roads would not be able to cope with the extra traffic, it's bad enough when the festival is on around Newport also what will the cost be to the islands residents. The cost of any tunnel is prohibitive for Government and no Independent business will even consider it. end of story. I feel that the financial impact would not be as advantageous as it appears, and it could end up costing residents / tourists more in the long run. I also feel that the Isle of Wight would lose it's 'island' image that many tourists enjoy most about visiting here. The island is unique and people move here for a different way of life away from the stresses of the mainland. If a fixed link was built it would change the culture of the island. We should not be an extension to Urban Portsmouth. We are Islanders. Better access means more traffic, more pollution,more roads, more people. WE ARE FULL. The expensive ferries act as a useful deterent to holiday 'homers', day trippers & traffic in PAGE 162 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • general. Leave the Island as an Island and concentrate how on earth you could fund it without charging a toll equivalent to, or higher than the ferries. This is an Island..if you dont like it move It would be beneficial to be able to travel without the need to rely on fixed time's ferrys day and night, It will destroy the Island's unique character. We might as well just live on the mainland. IoW would become a suburb of Portsmouth and Southampton and a preserve of the rich. A fixed link would ruin the Island's essential character - it's island nature. A link is naively seen as a fix for a problem that is more deeply rooted in under-investment in appropriate economic activities that can realise the potential of the Island as a tourist and cultural attraction, a unique site for research into sustainable technology and environmental matters. A fixed link would require extensive destruction of any Island site at its 'departure'/'arrival' point. Its cost would be immense - most pro-fixed linkers seem naive to the basic economics of building extensive bridges or tunnels - a cost that would have to be recouped through charges. What is really needed is a more radical approach in franchising the cross-Solent routes so that appropriate national government subsidy can be provided. A simple calculation shows that doing so would cost a fraction of any fixed link and retain the essential character of the Island on which it can build and sustain its brand - an island. Road brings traffic , road management issues, congestion, crime. It will solve the employment problem , look around on the mainland it's there too. If a fixed link was constructed the IOW would become just a giant roundabout at the bottom of England. We live on an island, we understand it is surrounded by water, if people want mainland facilities, crime and decay, then move there. This old chestnut comes up time and time again, it'll never happen, most people dont want it ,get over it It would take away the Island culture FL will destroy island identity, community and culture Supporters of a fixed link appear to imagine that any benefits will only be in favour of the Island. However, it will also be just as easy for business competitors to travel to compete against a host of local businesses and thus put at risk a great many jobs. A fixed link would also be likely to increase the total amount of traffic on Island roads which would be a serious detriment to the Isle of Wight environment. I also feel that many fixed link supporters have missed the point of what makes so many visitors like the Isle of Wight, as for a great many of visitors to the Island actually like that they have to travel here by a ferry. Sailing across the Solent on board a ferry is a very important part of the holiday experience for many visitors and often becomes a fond memory for so many people. The Isle of Wight is called the Isle of Wight for a very good reason, in that, it is an Island! More crime, more people so more houses needed, total traffic congestion. It will ruin the Island. It will NOT be an Island any more We will no longer be an island We are and island and should stay an island. A road tunnel would never close just like any road, the ferries have a limiting affect on traffic and generally traffic will have dispersed around the Island before the next one arrives, it would not be the case with a road tunnel, how would one control it? In batches maybe? .................Keep the Ferries then It will cause a lot of big problems ! Will spoil the character of the island and the reasons why we choose to live here. "Increase in day visitors who will contribute little to the local economy. Reduction in long term visitors. Potential increase in crime committed by individuals from the mainland." More people retiring to the island (I am a retired native) putting even more pressure on services. If a road tunnel - more traffic and if a train/tram tunnel there is no infrastructure PAGE 163 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • in place on which these forms of transport would progress around the island. If that is put in place it won't be just the cost of the tunnel which will have to be funded. Criminals won't have to wait for a morning sailing to get away with a tunnel(when they could get caught by the police at the ferry) Some numpty might decide to bring grey squirrels across. Price of property could increase we would become a commuter area of a Hampshire city. More cars less clean air Look at Skye - bridge has not replaced two ferry crossings. Ask why? Having more direct, convenient access to what the 'mainland' has to offer can be achieved by moving to tell mainland not connecting the island to it. Cheaper ferries, yes........fixed, no. Island should remain an island. I believe that the existing ferry companies are only interested in profit for their shareholders and that another ferry company maybe state / council run would be a far better alternative than a fixed link. No benefit to the Island I am not interested in any way shape or from in having a fixed link to the mainland. We live on an island, ergo a piece of land not connected to the mainland. By choosing to live on the island I know and understand the implications this has on travel on and off the island. I agree that ferry prices are too high, but I do not agree that a fixed link is the solution. People struggling with the concept of living on an island should consider moving. It would put a lot more pressure on the roads as there would be a lot more traffic. The uniqueness of coming to an island on holiday would be lost. Although it would presumably be cheaper I think the ferry companies should be questioned on why the Solent is the most expensive stretch of water to cross & how they could make it cheaper. Isle of Wight should remain an island, fixed link takes away the 'feel' of a holiday island, which would affect tourism. Sort out the cost of the ferries. Cost implications cannot see how tolls can be lower than ferrys Why live on an island and then bleat about the fact it is not connected to the mainland. this is a small island always has been and sorry to say always will be this is not a suburb or portsmouth or southampton or even kingston do we really want to become one, having spent four hours each working day in getting to my place of work, this action was my free choice the only regret was missing the eight o'clock return by 2 minutes and having to wait the next 58 for the nine, but I can still recall when the last boat back was the 21.30 to ryde and the next being the mail boat at Five in the morning so all things considered i do feel that the current service is far better than in the not to distant past, that said once we have a two boat service on the Fishbourne route we may consider have very nice it could be to have a FL but the money is and always will be the major problem and not even considering where the link will land in england just depends if i want to go to Kent or the midlands as always at lease with three landing points one can cut in to the overall journey time and have a drink on the way there and back, what could be better not rushing around might a well live in town I like the fact we are an island and that must remain. Massive amount of money would be involved too. Never have never will want it. Born and bred here and thats why i like it - its an island. If anyone doesnt like it they have an option. Move Rail tunnel preferred - too many road vehicles already The nature of the island would be changed for the worse. There is potential for an increase in crime, as well as negative environmental impacts. Traffic volume is already high on the Island, major crime is low due to the stretch of water! Not easy to escape if you've done something bad!!! It's called the Island for a reason! When you live here you know you have to travel across the water and pay! If people don't like living here because of the stretch of water then move to mainland! Yes it would be easier for people to get on and off the island but at what price???? PAGE 164 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A fixed link would be a possible benefit for one area only as far as business is concerned, I think it doubtful that businesses would be attracted to the island with one. The main protagonists for a link seem, to me, to be frequent travellers to the mainland, the answer to their argument is obvious. I seriously doubt whether a fixed link would make much difference to the island and as such would be an expensive mistake, providing, of course, that funding is forthcoming and that I doubt. It would spoil the Island. More traffic would come over and be on roads which can't cope with the volume of traffic already. It would spoil the Islands atmosphere. I cannot see that a fixed link will help. It will cost a huge sum of money and we would undoubtedly have to pay a "crossing fee" as would any companies using it. What we need is the Government to freeze ferry prices and stop the companies charging so much money especially at peak times. Island roads are not made for the increase in traffic a fixed link would bring. We are an island and should remain so. If u don't like the ferry don't live on an island. Island means island Have seen a fixed link to another island and the negatives out weighed the positives plus it impacted tourism and the attraction of it being an island Already answered above. R.O.I We are an island. It will become over crowded and generally a unhappy place to live. If people don't like using a ferry or find it a inconvenience then don't live on a island. Move away to the mainland. A fixed link is a terrible idea. "A total waste of time....and money. More needs to be done to reduce existing ferry costs. Pie in the sky idea, with followers who constantly hijack every IWCP comments pages." The problem is the ferry prices. That is where the efforts should be used. A fixed link is cutting your nose off to spite your face attitude. A fixed link will kill the island. No no no I want the island to remain an island and not attached to the mainland, even with the growing population of the island I do not think there are enough benefits to outweigh the negative impacts of a fixed link. I feel it would adversly affect the crime rates on the island , the present ferry system does act as a deterrent. Would be detrimental to the Island..Feasibility study would be a waste of time. People behind Pro -Link are obsessive and waste people's time. The Isle of Wight is an Island. Just because a few people have a dream to ruin this island with more traffic, no more business's no advantage to education and an adverse effect on the environment is certainly not a positive move. An island is that an island a special place . Ferry operators would suffer putting people jobs at risk "For the reasons given above. It is unlikely any positives will be felt on the island and even those who commute on a daily basis to the mainland could find their options reduced as ferry and hovercraft companies end their services. Journeys to Portsmouth and Southampton would undoubtedly be longer than the fastest current crossing (under ten minutes by hovercraft) and may well be considerably slower given traffic levels and disruption caused by maintenance, breakdowns and accidents in the tunnel. Companies which are currently based 'on-island' could service the IW from Hampshire and local offices and branches would close. The same would happen to healthcare - a full scale hospital would be unnecessary as the IW could be considered part of the Portsmouth or Southampton conurbation and health services provided in these cities. Crime and traffic would undoubtedly increase as would bio hazards such as foot and mouth which the island can currently be isolated from during outbreaks. Tourism would also suffer as onisland stays are replaced by day trips through the tunnel. The appeal to the majority of visitors is the island's isolated nature. There is no evidence that either tourists or businesses would be attracted to towns on the island any more than they are to other south coast locations like Bournemouth, Eastbourne or Bognor - with the added disincentive of the tunnel fees. PAGE 165 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The island's USP is similar to the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey. With a fixed link this would no longer be the case. Even as a daily commuter it is plain to see that those who want a fixed link are ignoring the benefits of being an island in pursuit of something which has the potential, not only to be a huge failure, but also to destroy all the positives which currently exist. How vibrant are the economies of Hayling Island or the Isle of Sheppey? the answer is not at all, yet they both have fixed links." More important things to put money into. A complete wast of time and money. IT WON'T HAPPEN. Fixed Linkers should get real and grow up. They don't even know how to get a delivery to the island free of charge. All they do is moan. If you don't like it here, clear off to the north island. You won't be missed. I value the separation that the Solent provides. If people do not like the ferry fares or the limitations that being an island brings then they have the choice to move off the Island. I believe a fixed link would lead to increased traffic, push up house prices, increase crime (burglaries, rogue traders etc) and may lead to some established businesses actually leaving the Isle of Wight. We are an island and should stay that way. A tunnel will invite people to come over just to cause trouble. Also means that business could suffer from mainland firms coming over and out pricing Island firms. Therefore losing local services. If people don't like the ferrys MOVE!!! Ferrys are part of the attraction for tourists. "Astronomical cost - who would pay? not the government or EU... Surely not enough returns for private investment. No obvious place to put tunnel exit / entrance either on Island or mainland without massive disruption and destruction Only solution to problem, on my view, is publicly owned, or price controlled ferry service, with public subsidy like in Scotland, More frequent sailings too. I am a native Islander and I like it here!" Any fixed link making it easier to travel to/from IOW risks making the island a "roundabout" encouraging low spending day trippers and bringing pressures on housing, education etc from people looking to move here to commute to the mainland. Car Traffic will be increased local roads won't be able to cope and it will spoil the Isle of Wight forever , it should be a rail ink . With more public transport . this is a leading question ie leading the completer to answer positive otherwise it would indicate that they don't care about the future welfare of the ISLE of Wight. Read the name it's an isle not linked permanently "The IOW would lose a great deal of its charm if a fixed link were introduced, and I believe traffic congestion on the Island would become worse. Ferries would probably have to be retained for the transportation of hazardous loads, and their profitability would be compromised, hence maintained through public subsidy. " Traffic chaos & loss of being an island It's an Island! Let's keep it that way. It is unneccesary Major concerns about loss of NHS services (see above). Increasing property prices pushing locals out and destroying communities (already bad enough in Cowes, Bembridge etc. but imagine the housing demand if people could commute to Portsmouth/Southampton easily!). I also choose to live on the island because I like the idea of being slightly separate to the mainland, the island is unique in this repsect and should stay that way. A fixed link is un-necessary and would change what makes the island special. "It has to be a Bridge and will be a bridge when the time comes in the very near future. A tunnel would be too expensive and would only be a rail link which is much too restrictive for commercial traffic both in the manufacturing side and also the employment side. • PAGE 166 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A bridge and the sooner the better to bring the IOW up at least into the 20th century if not the 21st" "The island would lose its unique identity i.e that it is separate from the mainland. If people do not like using the ferry to get to and from the island for work - move to the mainland. You have a choice. On a purely selfish note I work at the hospital and it would close in an instant if the fixed link happens. " Would turn the Island into a suburb of Portsmouth or Southampton, encouraging commuting FROM the Island, without necessarily bringing new work. House prices would rise, making it hard for youngsters to get on the housing ladder. It would take away from the tourist experience, and encourage day trips rather than traditional holidays, leading to reduction in hotel use. It would encourage Islanders to visit mainland shops, rather than shopping local. The only good thing is to help a few disgruntled commuters from the Island The island roads are not built to take the traffic a FL would offer another option would be a direct rail link without vehicles. At the moment crime is lower on the island than anywhere on the mainland, crime would increase 10 fold overnight and a FL would not be able to be policed adaquatly enough to deter, and lastly, the arrival of the so called Travellers would destroy greenbelt and farmers land without a doubt. See 9 avove This is an island and tourists and residents like the idea of an island. Effort in time and finance should look at ferry charges and capping them. there is no case for a fixed link to the island, for many of our visitors part of the charm is the "crossing the water". and in financial terms there is no prospect of any fixed link giving a return on the cost of construction, maybe a handful of people would make a killing selling a bit of land, beyond that, no benefit to anybody. I like that this is still an ISLAND Because the island is a beautiful place we don't want trouble here if they build a tunnel or bridge then crim would increase We are an Island. End of story. Oh and I object most strenuously to having to answer Q8 when I think the whole thing is a waste of time. NONE of them should be considered. All my answers would be 1 but you won't allow it. I think the island would very quickly lose its unique character and charm. It would lose tourist appeal. It would become an extension of Southampton or Portsmouth and become overpopulated I firmly believe that those who want a fixed link for commuting to mainland for employment should either look for an island job or move to the mainland like my family did for most of our working life. All they do is moan about the island so why live here. I don't think you can have the best of both worlds, which is what they think they'll achieve. Expense and timeframe Fixed link would spoil character of the island. The Isle, at weekends/ holidays will become a giant parking lot ! House prices whether to purchase or rent will rise far beyond the pockets of local residents . It would change the nurture of the island. Though attracting many tourists, out of season it's slow, relaxed and friendly people are what attracts many AT all times of the year. It might lead to even worse traffic congestion. It will kill the island as a tourist destination, the ferries are a large part of the attraction. Better to improve ferry services and make them less expensive as above we moved back here 10years ago with our family because we wanted a better quality of life which island life offers it can be difficult to get of or on the island and problematic with health care etc but we knew and understood this and this is the life we chose opening the access to the island up would result in us losing some of the quality of life we chose making us more like the mainland which we wanted to get away from PAGE 167 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "The tunnel entrance on the Island side would need to be of such a size I believe it would be inappropriate in scale. I believe the cost cannot be justified and the ferry crossings could be subsidised with the money." "I think it will have a negative impact on crime, putting the island at risk of more violent and gun crime. I think a fixed link would increase house prices. I also feel there would be more holiday homes which stand empty for most of the year. This will have a negative impact on the local economy. " No Fixed Link what part of 'island' don't you understand? look at POrtsmouth, that's an island. No to a fix link ever no changing my mind "You have predetermined that the fixed link should be a tunnel. I have no problem with that as long as it is a train tunnel, linking the island with the main line route to Waterloo. There are already too many cars on the road and we should not seek to expand care yseage either on this Island or the North Island. Multi-million pound developments should not be proposed to meet the needs of s small number of car commuters, or those with substantial property holdings who might reasonably expect considerable capital gains if there was a fixed link and property prices matched Hampshire. Those who don't like living on an island should maybe consider living in the mainland." There are any number of reasons a fixed link is not likely to be a good prospect for the Island not least is the whole character if people want to enter the rat race move there do not bring it here. I'd like to know who this fixed link is supposed to benefit certainly not me. It will have a negative effect on tourism Island roads cannot cope with vastly increased traffic, extra strain on our social and health services from too many extra visitors, increased pollution, increased house prices will price out locals, and who is going to pay for this tunnel which will cost billions? Local businesses will also suffer as they will be undercut by larger mainland businesses. Detrimental effect on tourism. People would only come for a day, spend less money, clog up the roads. Businesses would not come to island as people could commute. Would lose local services like hospital, council, fire stations , high schools as easier to merge with mainland Environmental damage and safthey plus cost I feel that a fixed link will cost too much money. I strongly feel drugs in circulation on the island will increase as well as other crime. I also worry house prices will rise significantly in already expensive market. Also I worry about traffic and pollution and its increase. "It's 27x13......it's an Island...... I'd consider leaving....." I believe it would be negative, mainly because crime rates would increase. It would take away the fact that the Isle of Wight is an island along with the red squirrels! We don't have the road infrastructure to cope with lots of traffic, our hospital couldn't cope and crime would go sky high I don't feel that the Islands infrastructure could cope with the amount of traffic that would ensue in particular on weekends/bank holidays and school holidays.There would need to be more alternative means of transport around the island, better and more frequent bus routes and more safe cycle routes, to help ease an already congested island transport network. PAGE 168 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • what ever link is put in place we will not be an island and will bring more crime to the island The run on and off, would be huge, destroying a large area. The parking, would have to be considered, as would the whole transport infrastructure on the island. The fact that nobody wants it . Island life is important to its people , and has been for generations. We haven't got room for the current population, why encourage more traffic? The ferries are not a perfect answer but they do mean there is some level of control over incoming traffic. This is a special place because it is an island, a unique place which should not be just another 'add on'. The island is beautiful as it is and loved by many for being an island. Any fixed link would ruin this. I moved back here after a number of years on the mainland because of the way the island currently is. See above It would lose its character as an island. Enough cars on island already have a rail link would be better We would no longer be an island and that is the beauty of The Isle of Wight As above Simply do not want a fixed link Mainly would affect jobs on the Iow especially healthcare will not be good for the Island i have yet to see a single irrefutable argument for a fixed link. There simply is no need. No one wants to sit in gridlock through a tunnel Though the island needs affordable means of going to and from the mainland I believe that lower rates for ferry crossing for island residents would be a less disruptive and overall more viable scheme than a fixed link. I don't believe we need a fixed link or that it would be beneficial to the Islands uniqueness. We are an island community. Ferries add to the wonder & magic for children travelling to the island. Fixed link will increase crime. i would never want a fixed link but would like a study to prove my negative thoeries This is an island that is what makes it special. With a fixed link it just becomes part of mainland Britain. If businesses or residents don't like the premium costs associated with living on an island and want all the benefits to be had from living on the mainland they should just move there. It would destroy the unique character of the island forever There is a negative attitude towards the link. In terms of people thinking that there will be no control over immigrants and no security . "Down grade/ closure of St Marys Hospital Job threats to all hospital staff Grey squirrels transition over Higher crime rate easier to flee Traffic congestion " I feel a fixed link would have a detrimental effect on the community and social factors on the Island. We do not have the same level of social problems on the IOW as the'mainland' and I believe that a link would change that and unfortunately not for the better. That stretch of water almost acts like a buffer and does make it more difficult for the more undesirable aspects of society to come to and make a negative impact on the Island The Isle of Wight could lose its Island identify! Leave it as it is - look at more cost effective ferry transportation. The absence of a fixed link has no significant effect on my own life, and I think the money could be better spent elsewhere (eg social care on the island). PAGE 169 • • • • • • • • • • • • I believe crime would increase as there would be easier access from the mainland and easier escape route. I think holiday makers love the journey by sea and the feeling of escapism from coming by ferry. My main worries of a fixed link would be volume of traffic on our roads, parking, beaches etc all becoming too busy over holiday periods/bank holidays. Increased crime rate similar to that on mainland. Reduced employment opportunities. Funding is needed for more realistic projects such as Island infrastructure before this time of project is embarked upon. Any 'surplus' funding that is made available for this nefarious feasibility study should be put towards more efficient ferry services and/or transport subsidies for Island residents. Unfortunately there are a lot of incomers that feel a fixed link would benefit (them) and they do not understand that the majority of people live on the Isle of Wight because it's an Island and are prepared to deal with any inconveniences this brings. If they don't like living here with the limitations of Island life they should move to the mainland. Why should the Island to change their desired way of life? You can't just change an environment to suit your own needs. We have a lot of history and flora/fauna that would be risked by a fixed link. We need to protect this special environment and start to appreciate more what we have. Have not got right infrastructure for more traffic More should be done to entice bigger company's to invest on the island instead and make the island more self sufficient. That would create more jobs and help towards improving public transport routes and frequency on the island. The Island will not be able to handle additional traffic on a regular basis. The infrastructure wont handle it and, unless there is a lot of compulsory purchase of land to widen roads it will be too dangerous. Theb amount of crime will increase due to potentially easier access to the Island. The pro-linkers have made varying wild assumptions about what a tunnel would bring to the IOW. They believe that we could, for instance, get rid of the Air Ambulance if we had a tunnel stating that it is quicker to get through a tunnel than flying by helecopter. I bel;ieve that a tunnel would mean the end of A&E on the IOW. They think that it will make people want to commute to the IOW to work. Can't see how that will be the case and be cheaper than the Red Jet. Too many wild assumptions from the pro-linkers for their arguments to hold any water. Their bullying tactics will also not win over any undecideds. This is a beautiful island and should be kept as such. Tourism is our biggest business, building a fixed link will just create an excuse to keep on building on green land..this should not be allowed. The island is behind the mainland U.K. In many respects, but this is the charm of the island. It's a different way of living, a relaxed and carefree way of living. This is why people retire to the island and the wealthy have holiday retreats here, a link would destroy this and make it no better then Portsmouth. I was born on the island and live here with my wife and kids, I feel there are few places in the U.K. That are as feature rich to bring my children up. Focus the money on improving education and lowering ferry prices. what makes the Island special is that it is separated from the mainland and that the environmental impact from the construction of a proposed tunnel and the increased traffic it would bring greatly outweighs the possible benefits Socioeconomic issues and infrastructure problems such as those present on the island will simply not disappear by throwing cars and money at them. These issues I believe can be tackled with smart thinking and smart investment. The building of such a link may mean financial progress for the companies who build it, but that would be as far as it goes. The environment will be damaged and many of the unique benefits of island life will quickly diminish as well as the myriad irreversible unforseen consequences, all for the sake of a few rich men's greed. . This is a small island that could not cope with the "free run" of traffic from a FL. If you do not like living on an island accessed by ferries, move off. PAGE 170 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Ease of access to mainland and more cost effective than ferry " Will change the island and lose its character It is an island, not an urban metropolis if you want to visit the mainland so much, stop whining and move there. People seriously think they'll be better off? All it will do is push housing costs ever higher and the £50 people haven't spent on ferry tickets will quickly be lost to the inevitable toll for the bridge/tunnel and the increased cost of living. I think it would make the island too easily accesible to the mainland, and the Island itself won't be able to cope with the high level of visitors. It would be good for business but a nightmare for residents. because it takes away something from the island uniqueness, it also takes away from the islands potential as a tourist attraction. It would increase traffic on the island. I would like to see more speed restrictions and incentive for carbsharing and small cars. The current arrangements are an effective lowlife filter. Sure, we have homegrown undesirables, but not to the extent that plagues the mainland. It's a reasonably safe place to bring up your kids. Not a lot of theivery and violent crime. If you don't like living on an Island move off. Don't wreck it for everyone else. There is no need for a fixed link. Putting a 'fixed link' will put both ferry companies out of business and take peoples jobs, when you think of the isle of wight you think of the ferry crossing, it is all part of the islands appeal and character. The idea of being on an island is unique. The idea of coming across a stretch of water and being separate from the mainland is why I live here. Ferries are the price we pay for living in the beautiful place. During my career I have commuted across the water and yes it is annoying, costly and inconvenient but more than worth it. After all people who live on the Island were more than aware that there is a stretch of water to cross, if you don't like it them move to the mainland. 1) It would concentrate all traffic in one route, rather than 3 as at present. (2) would cut down travel options. (3) would lose our identity as an island How much will it cost using the fixed link , who is paying for the survey and construction of link , What increase to the carbon footprint will arise from construction . I believe that a fixed link would have a negative impact on the Isle of Wight and that the ferries should be subsidised which would be a much cheaper alternative to a fixed link. The fixed link would just ruin the island that stretch of water is what keeps us safe, I'm from the mainland so I know what it's like since moving here I have felt safer and my children have a better life, a fixed link would just be an easier invite for low life's that can't afford the ferry to come over here and cause trouble, I'm not saying that there isn't already troublesome people here but they are the minority at the moment and there are more decent people that live on the island, the crime rate will go up and so will our insurances !! The island is unique and part of its appeal as a holiday destination or as a place to live is because it is seperately from the mainland! If the tunnel makes it easier to cross it may increase tourism which is an obvious positive but it may also encourage some more unsavoury characters to also visit or even move over. I do like the idea of being able to drive across myself and not be stuck on a boat for an hour but I am concerned what it could mean for the future. an influx of people wanting to move here could raise property prices and make it harder for young islanders to get on the property ladder. It takes a unique selling point away of being an island but the price of ferry crossings need to be reviewed. If there was a fixed link the island would lose its hospital I believe the island would just become an extension of Hampshire and lose its unique island character. PAGE 171 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "We will loose our individuality to an extent , becoming a meer arm to the mainland which is sure to affect tourism and therefore businesses and income generated on the island. Red Squirrels - how will this affect their conservation? People living on the island and working on the mainland, and vice versa, have made that choice based on situations at the time they accepted their employment. Therefore, surely, this cannot be a ""valid"" consideration in facilitating a fixed link?! As a family , we can only see negative points to a fixed link. Yes, we do have family members in the mainland and yes it does cause expense to visiting, but that's something we all accepted living on and/or moving away from, our Island. Please keep our Island as beautifully unique has it always has been." Too much traffic now for the roads. A fixed link would encourage more traffic, these visitors would bring little if any to the Island. Negative because of the sheer cost involved in a tunnel. Where would the billion come from? If I was a landowner whose land was needed for an entry point on either side I'd be rubbing my hands at naming my price. Would have a very negative effect on our roads our countryside Apart from the obvious increase in traffic and associated pollution it will completely destroyed the unique nature of island living. Increased traffic for tourism, business etc will placevextra demands on local services which will need to be funded by increases in council tax. There will be an increase in crime. I feel that many tourists who come to the island enjoy the ferry crossing and the ferry companies employ hundreds of islanders whose jobs may be at risk of a fixed link takes traffic away from the ferry companies. We are an Island & have been for many hundreds of years if you don't like that fact then move to the mainland. Yes a fixed link would make transport easier but would also take away the uniqueness of the Island. Also how far inland on either side of the water would you have to go to make either bridge or tunnel as you would need to have a gradual slope to go over it as the height of a bridge would have to be extremely high for passing ships. So a lot of lovely countryside has the potential to be lost & damaged both here & the mainland not only during the building process but afterwards as you would never put it back to how it was as you would want buildings around the area for trade/retail no doubt few travel lodges etc. "Living on an island is a choice A link would mean that it becomes a part of the mainland. " Please see above Our roads cannot cope as it is, it will bring more crime to the island too "The Island does not have the infrastructure - roads, etc - to cope with the increase of traffic and the 'quality' of th e roads leave a lot to be desired. Instead of looking at a fixed link, which will cost millions to build, pressure should be put on to the ferry companies to lower their prices for Island residents and allow other companies to operate travel routes without fear of being out-priced" The island being entirely seperate from the mainland is what makes it worth visiting and worth living here. A fixed link would lower tourism and woukd agrivate the vast majority of residence who bave chosen to live here for it's beauty, closure, enclosed community. I live on the island and commute daily to London and have for the past 8 years. Don't waste money on "another" feasibility study. It will never happen a fixed link. Put the money to good use instead. Keep our Island special and keep it as an island. Wont be good wont sohve notging Predominantly because of loss of cultural identity. The island is a cultural haven, an escape from the mainland, a special trip out, as witnessed by the music festivals, old car, scooter and bus events. I see it as becoming as log jammed as the isle of Dogs PAGE 172 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Negative because it is an Island with its own special character and environment. I think a fixed link will have a negative effect of our locality. The Islands infrastructure is already at breaking point, adding more traffic to the Island would be the result from a fixed link that no one here wants. Loss of unique Island feeling from locals and visitors. Crime increase, taking opportunities away from island residents, cost too much, Based on existing studies I believe the cost of a fixed link would be as prohibitive as the ferry services whilst opening our community up to a volume of residents we are ill equipped to deal with. I think we would lose more business to 'mainland' hubs than we would gain due to rising property costs and there would be a natural overspill of crime from the inner city areas. Car crime and import of drugs being just two areas for consideration. Our health service is already being reduced. I think we would naturally see units closing with "easier" access to alternative hospitals, reducing our local healthcare further. Although there are some positives, the cost of creating a fixed link teamed with the overwhelming negatives make it a non starter in my eyes. Address the ferry services, the cost, the reliability... and no one would even consider a fixed link. The tunnel should be a rail tunnel Because of a fobia, I would be to frightened to use it, WE NEED A BRIDGE ! An island isn't an island if it is linked, it just becomes the same mass of land. We would have to change our name to Wight rather than the Isle of Wight if we had a fixed link A fixed link will cause too many problems. Crime will go up. There will be more gangs of shoplifters The whole point of being an Island is that it has NOT got a fixed link. We just need the government to support the travel. The Solent is what makes the Island unique,having a fixed link will ruin the island There isn't enough jobs and housing for the residents already, never mind opening the flood gates for more people It soul be a massive drain on our already limited funds Too much traffic and we dont need a link Impact on peace on the Island, traffic, red squirrels in danger, keeping caracter of the Island Will take away unique position as a tourist destination. Will increase traffic congestion, will facilitate major crime. The cost of providing a fl is, in my opinion, likely to cause far greater harm than the benefits it will bring, in particular to the environment. I am in favour of a study, simply because I am sick to the back teeth of hearing about how wonderful it would be! Impact on traffic levels, environmental impact, no benefit as a daily commuter to Southampton in cost or time, resultant impact on house prices, crime levels and overall detriment to island life The island is special because it is an island.It has a limited road network which would not cope with extra traffic.The island has a delicate eco system which would be affected by pollution if there was an increase in people and traffic.More and more corporate businesses would take over the island and would kill off local businesses. A tunnel is not a necessity and in the future for the sustainability of the health, welfare, employment and leisure of which this Island offers many are far more important and a more important resource of funds. Want to remain apart from mainland. Less crime. I believe it could result in costs to residents ultimately becoming even higher. It could also lead to even more massive overdevelopment of the Island as there has been already in southern coastal resorts. People want to retain the island as an island and this would be spoilt with a fixed link of any kind. PAGE 173 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It's an Island, it is detached. This is why many love it. It doesn't need ridiculous schemes like tunnels and bridges, it needs sensible investment and oversight to ferry services. Because it will drive up property prices, shops will close as it will be easier to go to the bigger centres on the mainland, crime will increase. The special nature of being an island would be lost. I think a fixed link would be devastating for the Island. It would leave it as part of Hampshire. There would be no need for St Mary's. The islands traffic problems in the summer would be even worst than they are now Because a fixed link would encourage more vehicles on the island. The money to be used for the study and eventually the proposed fixed link would be beter spent on a reliable, sustainable, environmentally friendly public transport system. The hovercraft was one of the first hovers from the Isle of Wight the tunnel would ruin the tourist attraction of the island people may be put of with driving on the beach The case has not been made for a fixed link. No-one is held captive on the island. People can choose to leave. And a fixed link will change the island and cannot be undone. I am not convinced by the arguments for a fixed link as they currently stand. There's no need for it we have boats The whole part of being an island! Do your homework, crime , gypsys , traffic, The appeal of the Isle of Wight is, and always has been, that a good proportion is unspoilt. It appeals as a destination away from the mainland. With a fixed link it will inevitably change that perception. What the tourism trade needs is more of a draw. We need investment in attractions. We've had a lot close and whilst Blackgang and Robin Hill are great, it's not enough. We need at least one fun pool with waves and flumes for when it's wet, for example. We need to encourage more regeneration within towns. We need to encourage new businesses not the opposite (eg Asda). Our towns need to be busy and vibrant. I'm tired of paying to travel to the mainland to shop. I also feel that you have not asked enough questions as to tge people answering. I have lived here all my life. I was born and raised here, as were my parents. You need to ask how many generations in those that are answering are, as there are a lot that retire here, etc. Also whether they have children born and living on the island, as I know my consideration is also for the generations to come. I would also say that I'd prefer to see us becoming more self sufficient with wind turbines than adding a tunnel or bridge. Prohibited costs for Island taxpayers. Ruinous to the character of the island and it's people. Loss of tourism. Because that's what I believe! Would impact the island and change the whole feel of the Island It would raise house prices, increase crime and destroy the island way of life. Character of Island could change to the negative. The majority of IOW residents want to live on an Island. The noisy minority seem to be business men new to the island (last 5 years or so)who want more customers. If they want easy access to the mainland they can move there Enough traffic as is It would remove our unique selling point, that we are an island, and would be greatly to the detriment of quality of life here. A fixed link would significantly change the character of the island. This in my opinion would be a bad move. There would be no positives for me in having a fixed link. The increase in traffic on the road infrastructure on the island would produce another Hayling Island effect especially in the summer months. There is indication as to where a tunnel would be placed and in my opinion would be severe issues on the other side from people living on the mainland. Any council money spent on studies into a fixed link would be a stupid waste of scare resources at a time of cut backs. i choose to live on an island with all that it entails. i do not wish to see a bridge or a tunnel. PAGE 174 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Having a fixed link will be disastrous for the island! We will lose services from our hospital to mainland hospitals creating extra travelling costs to patients and separation from family support. It will mean hospital staff will lose their jobs and have to work/move to the mainland. Devastating if you love living on the island and island life. All because some selfish people don't like using the ferries! This should never be allowed - they should move to the mainland instead of ruining it for everyone else! What will be the impact on hotels and b&b's if people can just come for the day? And how will our roads cope with day trippers, when there is often gridlock and congestion with normal holiday traffic? Leave our island alone! The list is long A fixed link will destroy the appeal of the Island. It will bring many more vehicles than these roads can cope with, and all year long, especially at weekends. It will make it much easier for crime to be committed,with far less chance of detection. There are few, if any advantages. I belive the fact the Island is an Island is why the tourists come. "Day trippers" would not help the hotels and campsites in any way. Detriment to rural nature of iow. Traffic congestion.loss of island status. Cost. The Island is the place we love because of the Solent and the disconnection from mainland U.K. that it provides. Poor use of the funds required, enviromental impact. My professional view as a Home Office crime prevention design advisor is that it would have a significant impact on crime levels. I believe the money if it were available would be better spent elsewhere on the island and that economic migration should be allowed to take its course as it does elsewhere in the UK Loss of Island life. "Nobody will pay for it We can't cope with the current cars We don't need extra pollution" The fixed link would take away the uniqueness of the island sort the ferry prices out I don't think it will be good for the future. Plus there are a few ferries and I did live on the main land and moved over to be back with my family. I've never had any trouble getting a ferry if I needed to be here quick I used Wight link if no rush got which ever ferry. Don't try to fix something that doesn't need fixing Would not be cost effective when the island needs money spent else where. Would also be a easy route for crime on the island The current road infrastructure could not cope with the influx of traffic, the extra traffic would cause damage to the delicate and fragile state of the island's environment. It is likely that house prices would rocket with second homers moving in on the housing market - shutting out islanders for generations. Many islanders would still face a high cost of commuting and commuting to the mainland would not necessarily be easier for foot passengers. The hospital would most likely close, probably the prisons too. Personally I would rather see investment in SMEs in the digital economy to create decent employment for young people rather than seek retail and tourist opportunities (with low paid jobs) that are more likely to flow in with a FL. I know of many online SMEs whose businesses are booming without the need for commuting - it's a far healthier and greener way to work. I would prefer to see a study in how to grow the digital economy on the island and how to invest in young people wanting to go into the digital sectors. With Ferries, the Island is more exclusive and keeps the scum out. With a fixed link that would open the Island up to organised crime with an easy access. We ferries everyone is recorded entering and leaving. Also the effect on the Red Squirrel, this would allow the chance of grey squirrel to get across. If this has been feasible then then Victorians would have already done it! "There is many companies based on the island that rely on and thrive because of the uniqueness of the island. PAGE 175 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • All coming and goings from a FL would become inevitable once the ferries are forced out of business meaning we would have 'all our eggs in one basket' and would be worse off as ONE company would dictate prices. Instead of the current 3 companies. The Island is and should be viewed as a holiday spot, a ferry trip adds to the experience. Also if a FL is built meaning people visit for a day, how would the Hotels stay in business? I fear the island would just become homes for commuters with very little industry. I also do not understand how the large amount of dangerous goods that come and go from the island, many of which are not allowed in tunnels, would still come here or get here cost effectively. Again this would mean loss of business or higher prices. " I believe that a fixed link will be detrimental to the environment and also the identity and soul of the Island Basic maths really.... the islands roads infrastructure struggles at the moment with no fixed link... fixed link = more cars/traffic simples! "Higher influx of people but infrastructure not able to cope. Higher crimes rates " We live on a island. Some like my self was born here and decided not to leave, some was not and chose to come and live here. This is for a reason. I beleave this reason to be the unique and special environment we have here. Not only the geographical environment, but the people and heritage created on this fair isle. These are things you can not put into words, describe, use as a tangible argument or write statistics about. It is something you just know and feel. Unfortunately others do not seem to "get it" and insist on living here but complain it's not like the mainland. Well that's for a reason because we are an island. I agree there are negatives to being a island, however there are negatives to everything. When I here all the propergander about having a fixed link, it is as if they don't understand that the whole country is having problems with lack of tourist, businesses closing, unemployment, NHS, infrastructure the list could go on and on. I do not feel the roads on the island are equipped to cope with the extra traffic. At peak times, traffic in some areas comes to a standstill, in the summer the queue to get to the beach will be ridiculous. Unfortunately public transport is neither frequent or affordable so using that to get to work instead of driving is not plausible. "I have spent many years traveling back and forth too the island and spent almost two years living on the island. I only lived there as it was convientent too me and did not move off due ferry issues. We had many holidays on the island and one of the most exciting parts was the ferry. My parents were not well off by any means but we always managed to afford to travel on the ferries even with our caravan. The island is great as it is and the ferries do a wonderful job. I now bring my kids across and they absolutely love it. I look forward to many more holidays and eventually taking our grandkids ACROSS the solent. " I chose to live on an island. I have been to plenty of mainland towns that are 'deprived' or 'dead in summer' and there are no ferries to blame. Surely it is better first to lobby the ferry companies. How much does Red Funnel pay the CHC each year? Maybe Cowes HC need to reduce their fees. I strongly feel this issue should be a referendum issue. Is there is no magic bullet to solving the island problems. What ever you conceive them to be These are responses from those answering UNDECIDED to At the present time before the study is undertaken, would you consider the prospect of having a road tunnel "Fixed Link" from the Island to the mainland as positive, or negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight? PAGE 176 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • There are potential benefits, particularly to islanders for travel, but there are also many potential negatives which should be fully acknowledged and explored given a fixed link would completely change the infrastructure of the island. I would like to think that the infrastructure is able to cope with more people coming to and from the Isle of Wight. I don't think the hospitals - Education system will be able to cope - let alone the policing. We don't have a decent road infrastructure to adequately handle a permanent increase in road traffic volume. and I would vote for a beautiful suspension bridge. Why do we always have to be looking at the 'cheapest' options. For heaven's sake make a bold statement that we can be proud of ! Dare to raise your sights above a hole in the ground ! Neither as there are arguments for both sides that are strong, however I'm leaning towards no tunnel due to the effects it would have on day to day life for us people that would live here, especially in summer time. Also the tunnel would take away from it being a island. My concern would be higher theift on the island as it would make it easier for thieves to get away and make it more desirable for them, more traffic on the island on the other hand it would be better for buisseness's and easier to commute to the mainland and back but what makes the island special is it being an island "There are both pros and cons to a fixed link. The IOW ferry services are extremely expensive and are surely driving away tourism and a boost to the iow economy as a result. A tunnel would supply that boost as tourists are faced with a £30 charge minimum before they even start! It's also making it extremely difficult for island residents to be able to afford get of the island if they need to or if there work commitments require them to make daily trips. " I worry about the impact on our community, particularly in terms of crime and how it will affect our overall standard of living. I'd be hopeful that it would improve and reduce the cost of travel for Islanders and visitors alike. I feel as though it's a good idea, but depends if the island roads will be able to handle it Price I believe there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to a fixed link for the Island. But I feel that the issues that the fixed link would solve could be solved through other methods. For example the improvement and increased accessibility (reduced prices) of current forms of travel. Depends if cost effective, job loss, squirrels, impact on tourism... Would need to look at similar projects we need the full study to decide either way "At present there is no real evidence to suggest it would be cheaper than the ferry crossings. This argument is pure speculation. Who would fund it? There is barely enough money for the local council to currently work with now. If the island had to foot the bill itself could people actual afford the increase in council tax it would most likely mean? Especialy ad council tax has been increased this year along with other bills and expenses but wages are not really rising in line with this. As a county as whole when so many other essential departments are desperate for more money is this really fair ? If it resulted in loss of jobs can the island support this unemployment? Before I could say either way the answer to this questions would need to be weighed up against the benefits. Ultimately we need to know if the huge cost would benefit the island enough to deem it an appropriate way forward. Just arguing cheaper crossings isn't enough. Hard facts and evidence need to be shown. These should also be unbiased (I'd this is actually possible - which is doubtful). " THE ISLAND NEEDS TO BE KEPT SEPARATE FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR CHILDREN. PAGE 177 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • there are good and bad points for this. people assume that a tunnel will rid the island of the need for ferries. I work in the blue light sector, and have many experiences of how a small incident in a tunnel can cause huge disruption. an incident on a ferry can to a degree be isolated so services can deal with it while remaining ferries continue to provide a reduced but functioning service. a tunnel would allow business to prosper but will also allow crime to prosper at a similar rate. the infrastructure of the island cannot currently cope with more traffic, which a tunnel will bring. lots of pros and cons! Would be good but concerns for wildlife I answered undecided because I think it would be both positive and negative effects. Both with allowing to come on and off the Island easier. I personally think it would be better to tackle the ferry prices first, since the ferry prices are ruining the Island economy. I can see both the positive and the negative effects a fixed link could produce. There will be some positives like ease of crossing but some negatives like more trouble coming to the island and island business's having to compete with mainland pricing. Easy access I see the benefits but I also feel a solution can be made with reducing ferry fares and making crossing times more frequent. The council should put pressure on boat services such as red funnel and wightlink to consider islanders over their profit margin I am undecided as I can understand the positivesand negatives of both arguments. I also think I am undecided as I don't think the outcome will have a major impact in my day to day life. I enjoy the fact it is a holiday island but by being on the island the cost to return to the mainland is ridiculous to visit family or go for family days out do not know enough "Positive because coming back to the island would be much cheaper and easier. Negative as I wouldn't want the island to be much busier through busy times. " waste of time and money, will never happen Undoubtedly there would be economic benefits, but would these be outweighed by increased house prices, increased traffic, increased house building, destruction of the environment and the transformation of the island into an identikit suburb of the southeast? We could turn into another Hayling Island. This is why I am undecided. I also do not believe the Government will ever come up with the billions required for this project. The ferry fares are prohibitively expensive and it would be good for tourism and businesses to have better access. On the other hand I would be concerned if traffic, congestion and littering became a problem. I also wouldn't want to see small businesses suffer and large chains taking their place. I think it is a BAD idea - we have more to loose than gain! I think the undecided question should be the question to be answered, to understand the reasons why, the positive and negative are easily analysed. "A Fixed Link would change thw whole culture of the island and allow all and sundry to inhabit it, At least the Ferries control that to a certain extent" I think a bridge would be better because I think it would incur the least about of 'ongoing maintenance' money. People have more confidence in something they can see (ie a bridge rather than a tunnel) . The way things are going with the NHS and obtaining certain treatment, along with the fact that we have a high elderly population on the Island, I believe that we need to look at alternatives to ferries with the urgency of getting off the Island at any time of day / night when required and a bridge would enable this. I know a lot of Islanders are opposed to a fixed link but then some them have never been off the Island or very rarely go off Island, all their family live on the Island, but for those of us who have family on the Mainland and travel quite frequently, it would be far more beneficial, especially in an emergency. I think it would also help with tourism and encourage young families across for holidays as the ferry companies hike up their fares PAGE 178 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • during school holidays. I know ferry companies do deals but these invariably come with conditions (ie you can't travel on certain ferries etc) and it still works out to be a very expensive day out! Unsure....however see my comments above in (9). This is all pie in the sky and until the nations finances are as buoyant as say Norway's we should concentrate on improving the existing facilities - which are actually not too bad! Because I feel that a fixed link is really important to the future prosperity of the Island, but would prefer a bridge similar to the Oresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden, which I have crossed on several occasions. "Positive:Create an alternative to Ludicrous boat fees, it will reduce waiting and crossing times, increase tourist which in-tern will increase business for the island. And probably most important will enable emergency situations to be quicker than they currently are. I.e fatal injuries having to rely on a helicopter which is charity funded(atleast partly) Also if armed police or bomb disposal need to get across to the island they wont need to take the red jet, ferry crossing for an hour or dinghy!! Negative and Undecided:Firstly where will this be located? Obviously on the North or east side of the island but according to the plans it says Whippingham.. Im curious to know where abouts as i currently live in Whippingham and cant really work out where you would have this going from... then go to Gosport, seems abit strange to me personally, i thought you would be looking at the Ryde-Portsmouth route to get to the M27 and A3. Iknow this will probably render the Portsmouth Harbour useless(with all the cruise ships and warships in and out) so perhaps look at going from, and this is just a punt because its national nature reserve land, How about from say Hamstead or Bouldner on the westside of the island to South Baddesley or Lepe. Just a thought. Here is another curveball which might be even simpler East Cowes to Lee on the Solent. perhaps even look at Totland to Milford on Sea. All just ideas. One big question also is that this could be a massive strain on boats coming into and exiting Portsmouth and Southampton harbours. Will this be an underground Tunnel system, will it be above water, how will it be dredged, how long will this process take, will this use wave turbines to power and lastly will this have a affect on current island residents taxes as someone has to pay for all this to be built or are they just going to cut more NHS jobs and take more money from the education sector....?" I am more negative than positive, but open minded. The island is in a dire economic situation and obviously the lack of decently priced access to the mainland compounds the problem. However, I am more inclined to wish for a prosperity that comes from within rather than one that is sought by connecting to the mainland. I feel that the island lacks strategists in positions of power who can galvanise its positives. "I like To moan #neanderthals." I can see both sides having family on the mainland we struggle especially in emergencies. But as an island born resident I worry what a fixed link would mean for island life. Undecided, though ultimately the fares for using a FL will reach that of the current ferry operators which is what is having a detrimental impact on the Island in the first place. PAGE 179 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I think it would be positive to the Isle of Wight in general having a Fixed Link as it would make it easier for Isle of Wight residents to head to the mainland. It will benefit Island businesses by providing cheaper and easier access to resources. It will also benefit mainland residents like myself who grew up on the island and so have more social life on the island. Would need to find out the feasibility of a link... It would benefit the business and economy with more people able to visit the Isle and people to live on the Isle and work on the main land, but this could destroy the very nature of the Isle we all love. As above. Pollution and traffic. Perhaps a train link to the Island would bring more people in without the extra pollution and traffic. Overall positive but it will completely change the nature of the island and I think it would be a shame to see that change as over summer it can feel we are bombarded with visitors so this would increase at all times. That said the employment opportunities here are so limited and the ferries are expensive and so you are faced with a choice of accept it or move away. "My family all live on the mainland, so it would be very useful to have a more efficient, faster & less costly means of getting to/from the island. Also, as my daughter is getting older I am concerned about what there is available for her on the island. There is plenty for her a she is young, but as soon as she gets to her teens and beyond the island has nothing. The island is a pleasant dead-end; businesses are deterred from being here, many rely solely only on seasonal trade. We need some modern attractions & serious investment. An island, boasting a nautical history, but without an aquarium? Life needs to be breathed into the island. I don't know if a fixed link is the answer, but some major investment must come from somewhere, & hopefully a study can highlight what is required." I think it has the potential to overpopulate the island, if you could easily work in the city and live in a place as beautiful as the island you would, I think it will bring more crime and also pollution. But the only other option is a petition for the ferries to lower their prices (which I would rather have than a bridge). It's disgusting how much they cost and it makes going away on holiday, visiting family or doing anything off the island so much more difficult. You can't see into the future to see what would happen either way but a petition for the ferries to lower their prices rather than a bridge I feel would please far more people. A road tunnel is NOT the only solution there are other greener options. Why not build a tidal barrage across the western Solent that could produce green electricity for centuries and build a railway line that could connect to the mainlines on the top. I remain open to the possibility of a fixed link but also feel if the effort and cost is made for a full survey it should explore all potential possibilities for the future of cross solent travel. I would like to see air travel further up the agenda and consultation made with budget airlines that currently operate to many small Islands around Europe. Until the funding for construction and operation are decided, there is a danger if not by the State, carpet-bagging PFI investment banks will hold Islanders to ransom in the future just as much as the ferry companies do today. This is a critical decision needed to avoid our continuing being at the mercy of investment bankers (usually hiding in tax havens.) If the decision was PFI I would vote against an FL in a referendum, ptherwise I could be persuaded about some of the benefits. I have not answered to your ways. Why do you not pay towards the study. The island needs to spend it on sensible things, especially as they are short of monies. Congestion at arrival point. I think a tunnel with a train would be better! undecided PAGE 180 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The pro fixed link supporters always extol the reduced cost for visitors coming to the island, however, the construction of a fixed link will not be a panacea for all of the islands ills.Whilst it will make it easier to get onto the Island, conversely, it will make it easier for Islanders to get off the Island, and obtain employment at higher rates of pay to that available on the Island, which will result in a skills shortage on the Island, it will also result in increased traffic on the Islands roads. "I'm not sure if increase traffic is possible, it's infrastructure is already limited. But it may have a positive factor on access to mainland for work. It may increase demand for housing on the island and house prices may rise. I'm not happy about the loss of land for large developments. I'm not sure if my husband would lose his job in Healthcare if the link occurred as the work would be absorbed with the mainland. I already think the hospital is at risk of closing as more services are lost to the mainland, and I don't think the public are aware of that factor. We don't have enough beds for the number of island residents already, let alone tourists. There are pros ans cons for a fixed link, but I'm not sure if I want it or not. One major question would be, who pays for it? Increase taxes, tolls? We need more information. " Not enough information about the impacts is currently known. I am unsure of the implications Traffic is already congested. A foot passenger service with mail would keep the ferry companies in business while benefitting island transport services and lowering parcel costs. There are both benefits and disadvantages. Ferry companies will loose out, it's risky to the environment and house prices will rise? but on the other hand travel time will be cut shorter for commuters and tourism may flourish better, bring prosperity to the isle. I'm all for it as long as the build is carefully planned and the impact to the environment is assessed properly. Speed and cost reduction compared to current situation will benefit every part of society I think it will ruin 'island' life, people live on the island for that reason. However, I do feel trapped at times because of the fact I cannot afford to leave the island and visit family, friends etc The tunnel would also need a passenger service of some sort to be a viable solution for all, and made affordable to all enabling Islanders to cost effectively work on the mainland. It would make life so much easier for Islanders to travel to mainland and eliminate extortionate fares but would could mean so much more traffic on our small roads and less use of public transport. I think although putting in a tunnel will make us better coonected & up to date with the rest of the uk, however will.it take away parts of why people love the island because it doesnt have the chaos & has kept its natural beauty. I feel that it would be both a positive thing as it will mean people can travel when ever they wish, making hospital trips, holidays, shop & work earlier for lots of people, but also can see a negative side if it is going to affect the environment. There are both positives and negatives to a fixed link, islanders would probably be less wanting of a FL if ferry companies weren't so expensive, a luxury they would not be able to employ if there was an option of a FL. Ferry companies may however become obsolete should a FL be carried out, which would likely reduce the tourism income to the island, as it would become a much more readily accessible place, much like another area of the mainland, as opposed to being an island. This survey is definitely a manipulative one . Typical Local Isle of Wight Council . I hope the creator of this survey see my comments . Look in the mirror and ask yourself about your own honesty to oneself ! PAGE 181 • • • • • • • A fixed link would be nice but we're not there yet. 100 years down the line we will have more advanced engineering not only for the construction of a link but to keep both sides stable in terms of economy and environment. We have far more important issues at present. I love the fact I have to get a ferry to where I live but doing a crossingweekly or several times a week can be expensive. TBH, I think the only people who will really benefit from the tunnel is islanders wishing for day trips, doubt the tunnel will be cheaper than ferries as I highly doubt that government will pay for it, therefore it will need to be privately funded. Even looking at figures given by pro link (which are way off btw) no one in their right mind would finance this. It is such a terrible business idea. It simple does not give the return in any reasonable time frame. The current island road system would not cope with an influx of supposed traffic. The ONLY way a tunnel would work is if was government funded with the road system also being upgraded. However, the government do not have such cash to please a few disgruntled residents who decided to live on a small island, then decide it's not what they wish for! Awaiting results of the feasibility and impact study More informative news required from both sides I'm undecided and I have always been against a tunnel because of the type of people that would come here causing trouble taking Islanders jobs etc, but its happened anyway. I was always happy to have the Festivals helping with the Island economy but they have bought bad people here and they don't go back, they stay resulting in awful things happening when we were always so proud of our Island. My Grandparents and great Grandparents would be horrified at the way the Island is going Traffic already too heavy These are responses from those answering POSITIVE to At the present time before the study is undertaken, would you consider the prospect of having a road tunnel "Fixed Link" from the Island to the mainland as positive, or negative to the overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight? • • • • • • Ease of travelling. Current risk of being left behind n society Positive, because it will enable people to get to and from the Isle of Wight at a faster and cheaper rate. This will have huge benefits for commuters, the tourism industry on the Isle of Wight and will also create more jobs. It might also encourage additional businesses to the island. I have visited an island in France il da rai that has a fixed link and I don't feel it has affected that island It would promote the improved economic and social welfare of all Isle of Wight residents and the Island community, without being mediated by poor quality, expensive ferry services available only to those who pay for them Having lived on the island most of my life (but now on the mainland) a lot of my friends and family are still there! This makes Holidays, birthdays, events very expensive for me due to the extortionate ferry prices (especially in the summer). I also think, for my experience, that this same issue has a negative effect on Islanders, especially the youth, as they feel as if they're trapped which I think leads to alot of social and educational problems. Also, it seems to me that the islands economic situation is pretty dire and that if there was a cheap and reliable route to the mainland, alot of people would stay on the island and work on the mainland, bringing disposable incomes with them! I know I would've done! I feel it would have an overall positive effect on business and social effects. The ferry services are so overpriced it makes it difficult for residents to visit mainland very often. It can also feel isolating if you can't get off the island to visit family. PAGE 182 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • For reasons above. The Island is dying with no industry or young people, we are at present an elderly escapist ghetto this needs to change and the only way this can happen is by access. 24 hour transport link, ferries are often cancelled / delayed due to bad weather, a tunnel would be all weather useable, if the Solent became uncrossable for 24+ we would not be self-sufficient in terms of food, etc I think the island is limited in so many factors (e.g. business, social, tourism to name a few) by being segragated from the mainland. The implementation of a fixed link will open up more opportunities on so many levels and would allow the island and it's residents to thrive. To develop the opportunities and economy of the Island "1. Ferry companies have us over a barrel 2. Weather which prevents cross Solent travel would have no effect 3. As a business owner, cheaper deliveries " I believe it can only lead to massive increases in opportunities in employment, education, tourism, business, healthcare, the economy and everything that is important to a prosperous modern life. The negatives (if any would actually come to pass) could never outweigh the positives. Quite a few areas on the island are showing signs of dying as more people regard the cost of visiting the island as inhibiting. Because it will encourage more people to come into the island haven't not need to pay for the ferrys. It will encourage days out and overall speed up the process coming to and from the island The freedom and opportunity it would bring to the island, specialist hospital care on the mainland accessible, help people with employment opportunities, ferry services are incredibly expensive restricting residents. Because of the rising ferry cost.we are held hostage by these two companies In the modern age of cheap flights we have lost a large percentage of our tourism due to ferry prices. However if they are not to be dramatically reduced then why not a fixed link? More people will come if they can simply drive. I guess it would have a toll to assist in paying for its construction but I'll bet that'll be cheaper than the ferry prices by far. We will be moving to the mainland soon purely because we know that if our children want a decent job, they will have to move away. As we want our children to have opportunities and we want to see them regularly, we feel our only option is to move. We would stay if there was a fixed link. A fixed link would bring opportunity and prosperity to the Island and it's residents. It would also bring job mobility to residents who would otherwise be unable to afford to travel to the mainland for employment. The building would provide solid construction employment opportunities for years. The current services to and from the Island are too expensive, infrequent and do not run in the interests of residents or visitors. I have lived and work on the Island all my life, and I feel we are held to ransom by the ferry companies.Leaving and returning I'm always clock watching,"Will we make the ferry !!".I believe that the Island will be swamped by all those criminals Enable commuters like myself to travel to/from work without being stranded due to cancelled ferries. Also more freedom of movement on and off the island for everyone After spending many hours waiting for night Ferries in my past job, being able to drive straight home would be a dream come true If the Island is to avoid further economic and social decline it has to be made affordable/ accessible 24/7 365 days a year for both Islanders and visitors. This will allow opportunities for economic growth, enable people to work on or from mainland. It would boost visitor numbers, attract professionals to work here, support businesses, improve PAGE 183 • • • • • • • • education and health services and help prevent social isolation. The Island is dying whilst at the mercy of the ferry companies. We are failing our young people especially if we do not give them this opportunity for future affordable/accessible/inclusive travel to and from the Island. Ferry prices .. days out with kids .. easier travel planning.. not having to stay in a hotel coz u miss the last ferry etc There are no negativets. All the scare mungering is not based on anything factual. There 18.9 million homes in the uk, why would anyone bother to travel to the Isle of Wight to commit a burgulary . Immigrants have crissued continent to get to the uk, crossing the Solent is at the moment the least of their obstacles so why would a fixed link increase that? Drugs, walk down any high street on the island and you can smell them, so they are already here, how would a fixed link increase them, we don't have customs to pass through at the moment do we? Medical problems, there are no back surgeries carried out on the island at the moment, imagine how much easier it would be if you could just be driven to the mainland.....Southampton has cancelled no surgery and has rescued many of the islands ones . Education, we lost a top head teacher as his family didn't want to relocate to the island, with a fixed link and subsidised essential worker travel he could have carried on working here. Look how much Brighton benefits from day trippers whilst it's too expensive to travel to the island as a "whim" day tripper, check a show and go in August . Every way you look at it, we benefit........even our kids can look at jobs on the mainland without leaving home. "Transfer of seriously ill patients to mainland hospitals The need to visit sick friends on the mainland at all times. Direct transfer of purchases, not by cowboy delivery delivery firms as so often happens now. The elimination of surcharges by companies to deliver to the isle of wight. To avoid the rush to meet ferry bookings that mainland traffic constantly happens and the risk of accidents in driving fast not to miss ferry. To eliminate the stress of travel by ferry. To have the freedom to go and come as you please and not limited by ferry timetables." It is becoming more and more difficult and expensive to get on and off the Island when suddenly needed. We are currently at the mercy of existing ferry companies for cross Solent travel and effectively they have a monopoly over the routes they provide, which limits choice and restricts opportunity. The concept of a cross Solent tunnel and all the positive benefits it would undoubtedly provide should be embraced wholeheartedly. The cross Channel tunnel between England and France has had no detrimental impact on England's identity as an Island and those who believe that a cross Solent tunnel or link would lead to the Isle of Wight losing its identity as an Island lack forward-thinking and vision. A tunnel would become an exciting and unique part of the holiday experience for visitors to the Island. revenue taken by the ferries comes directly from the economy of the island, they are owned, crewed managed on the mainland, a very small percentage of the staff at employed on the island, except for one recent vessel, the ships are build and maintained and repaired on the mainland, there is a very good reason to believe a bridge, tunnel or tidal power station link would employ far more islanders. It is said a bridge could be more expensive , the only bridge toll which came any where near the island ferries is the Oresund bridge from Kastrup to Malmo 4km tunnel then 4km Island and 8 km Bridge AT 46 euros the old island ferry now in Sardinia doing a similar run charged something like 6euros I did look up the fares and sent it to the county press but they didn't publish Until I read the letter in County Press from the person in Sussex I was not going to complete this, but, his attitude and believing he knows better than people that live here and have to put up with poor NHS service, high fares, unemployment, cost of living etc. made me so angry. If he loves it so much on Island suggest he moves here and experiences it for himself. PAGE 184 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • As I have mentioned above fast and comfortable access to hospitals at Southampton and Portsmouth is of paramount importance particularly for the aged and infirmed "I spend a lot of time (and money) on ferries trying to go to my granddaughter's school events. A tunnel would make life a lot easier for me. I would be prepared to pay a reasonable toll to use it. " "The island is becoming increasingly isolated due to the expense of travelling here via ferry. Tourism is suffering and businesses are reluctant to invest in developments here so jobs for young people are hard to find they are therefore leaving the island in large numbers. Healthcare is also becoming harder to access on the island as services are moved to the larger hospitals across the Solent. All in all the island is slowly dying The Solent has become the most expensive stretch of water to cross in the world!! ." The people living and working on the IOW need a permanent link to the Mainland esecially in times of emergency. The island is dying a slow and painful death as it's so isolated. A prime example of why there should be a link is Bestival; it has moved to Dorset now because the costs are too high and this is mainly due to the ferry prices. The ability for our band to play gigs at Mainland venues, and the ability to enjoy an evening out on the South Coast, without always having to have an eye on the time, in case you miss the ferry..... Alternative routes and more options The island is dying! The cost of crossing the Solent is ridiculously expensive,putting people off visiting and the reliability and frequency of crossings is unacceptable especially in an emergency. Hospital services are going to the mainland and people need a cheaper more reliable way to cross the Solent. "I feel its positive as today we need more freedom in getting off and on the island for better job prospects also it would be better for tourism all year round which would bring more money to businesses and the island. " The economy relies heavily on tourism,the island has declined over the last 30 years,we need to be more accessible to tourists being 24 hours a day ,cheaper fares. Also islanders need to access the mainland 24 hours a day ,my daughter lives on the mainland she is petrified of going on the boats and has never been home for some years now ,a fixed links would bring family closer together.The thought of a fixed link would bring hope to a withering island ,we need to bring this island into the 21st century. when i moved to the island in 2005 the ferries ran timetables that were reasonably priced and frequently timed , that is no longer the case.bit by bit it has become more expensive and more difficult for all kinds of activity groups,sports teams,holiday makers and friends and families to visit or leave the island. Island is dying a slow death, something needs to change 100%. Boost in tourism/education/jobs! Easier to go anywhere. At times it is imperative that people can leave the island (and get to the island) urgently, this would be possible with a tunnel, which is rarely the case using the ferries. The cost of the ferries is at times extortionate (don't think they've heard of basic economics). To have the freedom to travel, as and when I want to the Mainland. Not to have to pay such expensive costs. To be able to order things online and know that they will be delivered without incurring surcharges. One word. Freedom. A rain only system would again place us at the mercy of another greedy corporation and time tables. 24 hour non time tabled access to the mainland is invaluable. PAGE 185 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Better for independent businesses and would be quicker to get to Mainland hospitals rather than rely on expensive and unreliable ferry companies. Islanders are trapped at the mercy of unscrupulous profiteering corporations. There is a general economic lethargy due to a lack of significant employment opportunities. The additional cost of transportation to reach the Island affects: employment; tourism; living costs; education; and social well being of residents, detrimentally. The fares are so highly and service suspended at the drop of a hat , health care needs a simple way of being reached The uncertainty of ferry crossings in bad weather and the horrendous costs in travelling makes it necessary to have a fixed link. The island is a beautiful place to grow up or a place to retire. Sadly many leaving school and indeed even some in employment lack aspiration to improve their lot because "that is how it is on the Isle of Wight". Building a fixed link can only attract higher tech business with better paid job opportunities.This will feed back into the community to improve the very low standard of living on the Island and change the inward looking negative culture to a brighter and more positive outward looking one. "It's something that has been needed for many many years. Ex islander who hasn't returned since I moved off due to cost and timetable of ferries. The Island is dying and it needs regeneration and not be stuck in the 1950s anymore." Easy access will encourage more businesses, more qualified professionals, more tourism and can be the only way this island will regenerate. I have lived here 40 years and seen the island spiral downwards.....it could be fantastic if the islanders would open their eyes and consider future generations. No....it wont spoil the island only generate more wealth. People on the Island who want to get employment on the mainland are currently hampered by the unreliable and overly expensive ferry system. I think we should have the choice for alternative and cheaper travel both for residents and tourists a lot of people are put off coming to the island because of the cost of the ferry The young people from the island are our future , there will be nothing here for them soon and will have to leave to have a better way of life. The young are islands future. They need direct access to education, and career opportunities without being forced to choose between staying at home or living away. Those already at work need access to a wider work force and a fixed link would encourage investment in the island. The island is killing itself by living segregated from the rest of the world. I feel a better connection would add benefits to the island in terms of increased investment, logistically placing it in a better position and not being beholden to an extremely poor, inconsistant and expensive ferry service. This is strangling and isolating the Islands economic progress which I feel is steadily getting worse. The young generation are moving to find proper employment leaving an elderly generation that isn't helping in any kind of progress or development. With proper detailing on the proposal I feel that if the link can offer a far less expensive alternative it would be a lifeline. The Isle of Wight will be enriched by easy access, it has become a backwater due to the current expense of the ferry companies, I note that Red Funnel made a profit in excess of 17 million in 2015 and they are the cheapest! The ferry services are not fit for purpose and do not meet the needs of today's frequent travelling society. Because the ferry is so unsatisfactory and expensive and time consuming The benefits are too numerous to list in this box. However one important issue is the opportunity for much better employment opportunities for Islanders, with a fixed link, not being very severely restricted by ferry travel. PAGE 186 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • from question9 answer Cost of ferry and dependence on weather conditions The iow needs the support of the mainland to survive in many key areas as further cuts are made to services. Accessibility will increase economy and provide greater choice to current and potential residents of the island "I have just finished treatment for leukaemia where I had to spend the last couple of years in Southampton to be treated as our hospital wasn't equipped to treat me. If we had a tunnel I would have been able to stay in the comfort of my own home which would have made the experience so much more bareable. There's lots of people that have to travel over everyday to receive treatment. Getting on a busy boat when you're having chemotherapy is a nightmare especially when you have a low immune system and feel fatigued and nauseas. " Opportunities for growth in tourism A fixed link would bring many positive improvements to me and my family through access to better education and healthcare, and also the mobility to pursue opportunities that are not currently available to us as island residents. As a commuter I strongly value the importance of access to industry and jobs which are not represented on the Island, without being forced to relocate away from family and friends. At present I am forced to lose precious time with my young family whilst I commute off the island to work. In addition, a fixed link would vastly improve business opportunities and access as well as improve consumer options. It will be easier for residents and tourists to come and go and without high ferry prices , better for ambulances and other emergency services to get access to the island . People will no longer feel trapped due to high ferry costs and can commute at a lower cost. "Would bring the Island out of the dark ages. Will enable Island businesses to compete with our mainland counterparts. Also will give a better access for mainland tourists to visit the good parts of the Island cheaply. " Extortionate ferry costs. It would allow for better access on and off of the island. The Island is not a listed building or tiny enclave that needs wrapping up in cotton wool to preserve its heritage. It's dying because older folk are frightened of change - and without either a fixed link or nationalised ferries, we're held to ransom by the ferry companies. Modernise or suffocate. It could allow young people to still reside on the island with their family connections AND have reasonable job prospects. A thriving community needs people of all ages, not just retired pensioners. Every community needs to change with the times. It could allow young people to still reside on the island with their family connections AND have reasonable job prospects as I believe the prospects for industrial expansion would be possible. A thriving community needs people of all ages, not just retired pensioners. The Isle of Wight has declined beyond belief. I was born, educated, married and worked here. I have observed the dreadful deteriation slowly over the years to the culmination of a bankrupt council with appalling neglect in all other public services. A fixed road link is the only common sense answer to overcome the total stranglehold from the ferries domination of life and business, tourism, deliveries etc on the Island!!! With economy that we live in now I believe it is disgusting that although I earn over the living wage it is a STRUGGLE financially to leave the Island as and when I need to. The prospect of a fixed link would solve more issues than it would create. Makes education/work more accessible due to the lack of jobs, as well as reducing the cost to seek medical attention We need to.move forward the island needs acsess to the mainland for jobs and health and just generally more options . PAGE 187 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A positive boost to the island economic climate would be achievable with a fixed link in my belief more would come visit as it's a beautiful place unfortunately it's falling into disrepair in many places with the old attractions being left to fall apart, if made more tourist friendly and with a fixed link more jobs would be created for island residents and it would attract more holiday makers to visit (id also be more inclined to visit family if there was a fixed link as ferry times aren't usually appropriate for my family to travel) it will encourage and make financially viable the opportunity to leave and visit the island. Because we are being held to ransom by two ferry company's who cannot give a decent service, and you are restricted to when you can leave the island, we need a fixed link so we can get to the mainland hospitals as our own is failing miserably. Access to and from Island too limited and expensive through ferry services only. This has to have a negative effect on business and employment. Unemployment or poor employment prospects has an immensely negative effect on society in general. Health and education impacted as recruiting high quality clinicians and teachers is hampered by people in their 30's/40's not wanting to live on the island because of poor/expensive links. I believe improving access to the island would dramatically improve employment prospects for the young...and not so young. We chose to move off the island 4 years ago as couldn't find a job on the island that provided enough income or the chance to progress and the ferry fares were crippling us. The schools were failing my children and our quality of life in the terms of being able to travel or educate ourselves was non excistant. Now can't afford to come back and regularly visit our ageing families or friends.... Increased opportunity for all residents, ease of travel, choice, time constraints, revive flagging tourism, attract businesses... "The cost of travelling across on the ferry is extortionate! They have a captive audience as there are no other means of getting to and from the island so they charge what they like which prohibits both regular travellers and holidaymakers from using the service more frequently. A fixed link option would give people an alternative route That is both cheaper and not weather dependent!! Fixed link access will lead to increased business, new job opportunities and improved revenue for the island - it's a no brainier!!!!" The island is slowly dying through lack of investment and reducing tourism. A fixed link is the only way to give the island a fighting chance of a decent future. Having a fixed link could really help the island economy in tourism and business at a time when many of the islands towns are dying. New investment is needed. The opportunities for people to gain employment and increase education opportunities could be a benefit to islanders. Look at the thousands of people on the island who have to pay expensive ferry costs to commute to the mainland for employment (me being one of them until a few weeks ago). I love living on the island but I think a fixed link is the best way forward for the good of the island and its residents. Continued decline of opportunities leading to a loss of youth talent as they move to the mainland. High costs of transport inhibit business development. The island needs to attract visitors to encourage new business and increased tourism in order to have a healthy future. The current costs of traveling to the mainland for a student make it completely unsustainable and lead to a massive drop in social effects as well as limiting our life choices the are offered to mainlanders a similar age showcasing a lack of equality for local citizens. Better for businesses to move goodsome and people access to and from island 24hrs a day. We should do more to capitalise on the skills base in the South "Because people who are seriously ill, have to endure travelling to the mainland to receive the treatment they require. PAGE 188 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • As we have a huge population of elderly people currently living here, that should be a major consideration. " We need to be able to work and visit family on the mainland. Because of jobs for the youngsters and the island economy as a whole. Medical treatment, Easy accessibility to family and friends, rejuvenate the island tourism "Cost of getting on and off the island has increased prohibitively over the years, which does put me off coming over as often as I'd like. I've seen many fantastic businesses close down and worryingly I have no trouble parking in Sandown in the height of Summer holidays. Presumably tourists are going elsewhere. Also the lack of jobs on the island mean either an expensive commute or the decision to leave. Getting deliveries to the island is ridiculous. A fixed link allows 24hr access which in this day and age is essential. " Positive overall - there is without doubt some negative consequences there always will be but in my opinion economic growth is severely hindered by the lack of a fixed link It is crucial to the future of the island The ability for the Island to compete for business contracts and in turn generate income, employment and regeneration for the Island. Whilst the majority of people already bring their car over on the ferry, I do not consider this would ultimately increase the traffic if a tunnel was the alternative. Jobs. Access to hospitals on mainland. Able to visit family. Cheaper access to and from the IOW. Help businesses. House prices rise too. Cost of ferries makes the crossing unaffordable for too many ... Can't not! And the ferry prices are ridiculous and is massively contributing to the islands downfall I think the cost of crossing has a real negative affect on the island and makes it very expensive for everyone. The companies who run the ferries have a monopoly and are rude and quite conceited about their companies. I would love to be able to drive through a tunnel rather than cross the Solent. I don't see any negatives to this. It would increase the property prices and stop island mentality against being included in the mainland of the U.K. I needs to be made chaper ro get to the mainland to see family, tender for work and go on holiday. It will open up opportunities for business on the island to be started and expand. The cost of ferry services are out of proportion. A fixed link is common sense step to reduce cost of transport to mainland. The economic benefits of having a fixed link must be looked into. The cost of visitors coming to the IOW is very very high. Tourist numbers would soar, employment locally and on mainland would improve greatly. Cost of living will be reduced. Surely it is only the ferry companies that would lose out, which is natural business cycle they cannot expect carteblanche on transport methodology. Due to job shortages on the Island, many people need to work on the mainland to provide for their families. The cost alone is excessive (often thousands each year) and the parent is still required to travel from their home to the ferry port, catch a boat and then travel from the mainland port to their place of work which can often take hours each way this meaning that children may likely not see their commuting parent for days at a time as the parent leaves before waking time and arrives home after bed time. It will give the people who wish to leave the island a better chance, but will also allow a great many more people to enjoy year round trips to and from the island without red funnel or wightlink extorting them. PAGE 189 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Island needs to expand positively therefore a fixed link would be a 100% positive move. Everything we buy here , and that is IF they deliver to IOW , is more expensive. Having a fixed link will benefit , residents, businesses , health, tourism , in fact the list could be endless AND we could even get back Bestival. No other county can be accessed by us on Isle unless we PAY through the nose, we are held hostage by cross solent transport. If you book a Sun newspaper holiday you can get cheaper ferry travel TO the Isle than what we have to pay if we are going across ourselves. If we had a fixed link our tourism would increase majorly, our hospital service could be cushioned by IOW residents able to access health care on mainland. "It would have a huge positive affect on the island and I do not know why it was not done years ago. I live on the mainland and visit my partner on the island as much as possible but have to limit this because of the extortionate prices charged by the private ferry companies. I run my own tiling business and if i choose to move to the island to live with my partner then i would be forced to leave my van on the mainland as that is where my business has been established for the past 10 years. Meaning that I would have to drive my car to west cowes, catch an early boat, use a fold up bike as the red jet does not facilitate bike riders, then cycle 2 miles to my van each morning. Very long winded and on top of that would cost me nearly £3000 every year and cause major grief. As a result of that I would have less money to spend on the island which ultimately damages the economy and stops potential growth. Also I would be stopped from establishing my business on the island as the price to bring my van over would be extortionate. Therefore I have been forced to turn down jobs on the island. If a tunnel or a road was built I would happily pay the £2000 every year as it will be saving me a fortune and so much time everyday aswell. More money in my pocket means more money for the island. This has to be built. It is madness that it has not already been done. Thanks Karl" "The island and its residents are economically handicapped by the cost, time and inconvenience of being phyically separated from the mainland. All around the world there are examples of road links, bridges and tunnels providing 21st century access to neighbouring economies. The isle of Wight is adjacent to the most prosperous part of the UK and yet it is unable to share in the prosperity." Need to consider needs of the next generations. Advances in Tunnel engineering across the world could be a viable option. It will end the ridiculous monopoly the ferry companies have over travel to and from the island, I believe the extortionate prices we and tourists have to pay damage the islands economy,limits tourism, restricts business growth and keeps islands wages deliberately low. Also more importantly it will provide faster access to potential life saving medical treatment,should it be required. Our island is in rapid decline, we desperately need this link to improve our prospects not only for our generation but for future generations The high costs and inconvenient ferry timetable would not rule our life decisions. It's the 21st century & we shouldn't have to live as prisoners to the weather conditions in traveling to a mainland that is so near & yet so expensive to get to. The tunnel would be much more efficient for both business and for the young people of the Island to get worthwhile jobs. a tunnel is hidden so the island would still look like it's not got a fixed link . PAGE 190 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • improvement of medical care to isle of Wight residents and the increase in tourism as the ferry controllers charge to much and have a monopoly, the channel tunnel was a great idea Because I travel to the mainland a lot and it runs very expensive for me and my car. I would rather pay a toll fee. It would also be quicker and I believe safer. I believe it would benefit business and the Island as a whole I also have experience with going to a hospital on the mainland regualary and a fixed link would have made it so much easier during an incredibly stressful time . The Isle of Wight is no longer an island. The ease of travel and cost needs to be investigated. The positivity of a fixed link would far outweigh any negative impact. Because the Island needs a cheaper and reliable link to trade and cultural events. Watched the rapid decline of industry, tourism over the years I have lived and worked on the island. If nothing changes the island will just rot away to nothing and become a money pit. The restriction of the monopoly by ferry companies, is having a negative effect on tourism and investment on the island in my opinion Without a Fixed Link the Island will continue to die as Tourism (its main source of income) becomes less and less each year. Without Tourists the Island will no longer be viable. Businesses rely on being able to trade and buy goods from the Mainland - this is increasingly becoming impossible for anyone choosing to live and work here. Ferries are becoming ever more expensive and less frequent. The island isn't a little novelty with low population, it has a large population in need of good links, jobs, healthcare and tourism. It will allow the island to be lifted out of deprivation, raise aspirations, attract business and jobs. "The ferry companies completely isolate the community on the Isle of Wight by charging such huge amounts which clearly are of benefit to them considering the profit they currently make. Residents of the Isle of Wight should be able to access the mainland without having to add a huge cost and time consideration to heir journey. " If it is 24-7 and cheaper I think it will be positive I think it will be beneficial for the islanders and community "Will enable families and friends to visit more easily and cheaply Will enable people to commute much quicker " Ferries are over expensive and take too much time so a tunnel would make the travel between Island and mainland easier, making people more willing to work and live here Need to have more convenient connection with mainland. Not bothered about cost but Islanders (and others) need a conne tion that can be used any time and not when the ferry companies deem most profitable. Hopefully the cost and environmental cost to travel across the solent will be greatly reduced. The island is becoming run down and tourist numbers are rapidly decreasing. Long standing tourism businesses are being forced to close due to lack of trade in peak season. Feedback from tourists always reverts to the high ferry prices. At times tourists are paying more for a short ferry crossing than for their whole weeks stay on the island! Preventing lives being at the mercy of the ferry companies would make the island a more popular place to live and work. Island trade is dying off, summers are quieter and we are tourism based- a fixed link should give the island the boost it needs to keep businesses open The positive for my family is A, it will be cheaper to visit the mainland B, if we wanted a change to our day at short notice, just jump in the car and go to the mainland for a day out..... with the ferry its wether they have room for you , the cost factor of the ferry as it's outrageous, wether it's sailing due to high winds etc.... a tunnel would be a permanent PAGE 191 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 24/7 connection to freedom ..... I love island life and wouldn't want to live on the mainland again, but we all need a break and to see our families that live away from us Positive ... I often need operations in Southampton general hospital as the cost of the ferry alone is extortionate. This is just one of many reasons A fixed link would be a boost to the island. It would be easier and hopefully cheaper for tourists to travel here thus bring money to the island which must help the future welfare of IOW. Charge for coming over to the Island but no for leaving. Put a passenger service in that starts on the Island and ends at Waterloo or Victoria. Put vehicle size restrictions in place to stop the extra large lorries and coaches coming over. "my reason for the fixed link is that it would bring financial benefits and better services for everyone on the island. " The island economy is declining. The longer we wait for a link the worst the island's economy will become. It would bring more business and eould make ease of travel to the mainland. "It's a great way for people to widen their aspects in life Just get on with it! " Transport costs would reduce. Students wouldn't have to leave the island to go to higher education. Higher tourism. Better work opportunities. Faster travel to and from mainland. We deserve a investigation and serious consideration in to this. For years it has been spoken about, with the elderly having the majority of the say despite the fact that young people are the ones who have to live through their choices, every person should have a say about this, an island wide vote should be completed with all options readily avalible for viewing so an informed decision can be made. Because the island would feel less cut-off from the mainland; there would finally be a much easier and cheaper way for traveling to and from the island for locals and tourists which would definitely have a positive influence on the economy of the Isle of Wight. It would be a step forward that is way overdue. Better health care and more opportunities for young people. It takes so long to get across the solent and at extortionate prices. The island is doomed if something isn't done about it. We already lost revenue from one festival moving how long before the other one goes?. Then what will the island have to offer main landers. A fixed link would be better for all its only the people too stuck in their ways that don't want change Wages are higher on the mainlands , a link would mean I can commute to work on the mainland , 10 min journey . And return to the island to spend the extra wages on the island economy Easy commute for work opportunities, education and accessing health care off the island. Businesses will benefit from easier access e.g logistics for essential supplies such as supermarket deliveries. I spend way too much time sat in Portsmouth or Southampton waiting to go the last few miles when I can almost see home. Then have to get on an overpriced ferry The ferry companies have total control of passage to and from the island. There is no other viable way of transport currently. A fixed link would offer this and offer a greater choice As above plus speed of access none weather dependent and I'm sure it would be cheaper Lately the ferries have been unreliable. They don't have regular sailing through the evening, night crossing is non existant. If we want an evening out on the mainland we have to book over night accommodation or cut our evening short. PAGE 192 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It would make the Island much more accessible. Could still be a significant charge for using it e.g. £40 - £50 return. You need to put self employed in the drop down box for status, Would allow greater access and means people aren't held to ransom by the extortionate ferries. Crossing would be less time consuming and more cost effective. People would save money on the ferry, which would boost tourism as visitors would have a little extra to spend over here. Because it will allow people to commute and get jobs to help island economy Positive, because I believe that the Isle of Wight needs to become part of the 20th century. The island needs alternatives to ferry travel in order for the economy to survive I believe that there should be an alternative to travelling on and off the island. Large ferry companies monopolise the routes and can charge the earth purely because we have no other choice I am an Islander but feel that we need a better, more reliable way to cross the Solent. Also more affordable I cannot think of any real reason why there shouldent be a fixed link It would help for the future generation with employment and health services without having to pay sky rocketed prices of ferries. Ferry prices are still pretty extortionate (even with the "islander discount"). It would mean easier access to larger shopping outlets, hospitals, quicker access for Hampshire police and fire etc. Improved service, access to work? Boost economy, tourism and business. Access to healthcare. Run 24-7. Reasonably priced A permanent link is required to positively affect future generations. Ensure young people do not need to leave the Island to seek further education and job opportunities. To improve tourism, a key industry. To enhance job opportunities for all. To ensure health inequalities are reduced - will be easier to access specialist health services. Would improve tourism, work opportunities for the young people without needing to move away, only problems personally being possible opportunist criminals, travellers etc. Might have adverse affect on my business as I serve retired people with gardening etc, but I'm sure the positive business opputunities would outway the negatives I feel it will boost the island tourism trade allowing the younger generation to grow as they are not as cut of or isolated I feel it will bring more community and growth for education and small businesses Tourists are put off by the expensive and unreliable ferry services that add an hour at least to every journey. Residents are also fed up of not having the freedom to travel on and off the island when they please, because they have to pre-book tickets in advance if they are even available! The whole island would benefit from having a fixed link, education wise and more job opportunities Encourage tourism, business and growth It would most defintely help my buissnes and many more peoples buissness The ferry are far too expensive making it prohibitive for day droppers. A fixed link would benefit tourism all year round and improve the wealth of the island It would encourage business growth, which would give more job opportunities and would encourage younger people of working age to settle . This would also give a more cosmopolitan effect and much improve the overall standards of work opportunities and encourage higher standards of education. Overall bring more wealth to the Island. I am certain that ease of access and cost of access between the island and mainland would have a strong influence on future investment in the island PAGE 193 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I think a fixed link would make travel to and from the island so much easier and would make us feel more connected to the rest of England because we don't have to get a ferry everywhere. It will be easier and quicker to travel between the island and mainland and hopefully much cheaper. It will make it more appealing for people to come to the island for day trips or longer holidays because they can bring their cars easily without having to use the expensive car ferries. Since I've been living on the island, work and wages have always been a problem. It would bring more business to the island, and help bring prices of every day goods and services in line with the mainland Positive becaus otherwise we are all trapped on this island with the ferry expenses I've answered positive because I think we should be able to leave the island at any time without relying on whether the ferry is operating (only 1 ferry going on Christmas day or no ferries during bad weather) If I urgently had to go to the mainland during Christmas I wouldn't be able to so I am very much for a fixed link The strangle hold of the ferry companies, it is cheaper to travel from UK to fnace than it is travelling from the Island.. Its long overdue that the island moved with the times. Were only just getting an Asda and its 2017 for googness sake. We see more and more people having to travel to the mainland for surgery and other health investigations and for business and jobs it surely is time we improved our long term prospects as a whole from health, education and business. My view is that the increased opportunities for islanders outweighs the negative impact. The IW is gradually declining bothe socially and economically. More and more of our health care is off Island and it is expensive and time consuming to access, this not to say extremely tiring. The time is right for a fixed link. The job opportunities are so limited on the island. I think a fixed link would allow mainland employment to be possible without a long commute. This Island needs regeneration to survive and I don't think it will be adversely effected by a fixed link. In order to keep the island a place of outstanding beauty and nature, as well as make it socially desirable for young island population the council require large amount of money which in the current government can only be brought to the island through attracting business. Permanent link is paramount to bringing business to the island and as a result to its community. We need to be able to develop and prosper as an Island, not be strangled by greedy ferry companys. The island is becoming very dated, and ferry prices are becoming more expensive. I feel that the island would get more tourism all year round if there was a tunnel that you could just drive across in. Because the economic and social decline on the island needs to be reversed The poverty is here because people are locked here. If you can't afford the ferry prices you are stuck in low paid jobs if you are lucky enough to find one. Even those with good salaries -teachers, health workers, council workers are all trapped here. If you love the isle of wight (it's an amazing place) you are stuck in a fixed amount of work places, career progression is limited. A fixed link would mean people could cheaply migrate for work. The island would become more beautiful because there would be a greater influx of money to spend in local shops. People would live here because they love it not because they had no choice. Ferries are unable to provide a consistent & sustainable service. Healthcare is suffering, island tourism is held back by ferry costs. Lack of career jobs due to ferry crossing times. I need this for work purposes and also it would boost tourism ten fold and bring some life back to places like sandown PAGE 194 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Future prosperity for the island. The opportunity for more business to invest, more jobs & increasing tourism. (The Island currently shuts down from November to March, this could make the island more appealing & excessible)" I dont want my children feeling suffocated like many young peole do stuck on the island in the winter months I feel the island could benefit from having more choice when traveling feel that were are trapped by costs from ferry companies and that having the tunnel would help the island thrive Ease of access to friends/family on the mainland & also healthcare facilities. Will attract better education & medical staff to the island. Positive for the sustainability of the Island community and developing an Island fit for the future The Island is on its last legs and something needs to be done as soon as possible! In other places these tunnels/bridges to islands have been built, they have been shown to be an overall beneficial advantage to the places concerned. The fears on crime, immigration etc have been shown to be unfounded. "The island desperately needs the positive benefits that an easier and cheaper link to the mainland would have. Even paying a toll charge for the link would still make a huge difference for people needing and wanting to commute to the mainland. " "You only have to take a look at the empty run down island towns to see the Island is in decline and lacking money and investment, we are held to mercy by the ferry companies who hike their prices during peak tourism times and social events and cut them back to bare bones in winter, I'm fed up of adding £40 onto a simple daytrip if I'm bored of the Islands simple and rundown attractions, and my husband spends a small fortune when he has to commute for work. It is time to raise the Island out of the dark ages and make us better connected to our mainland." Extra postage charges/not willing to post to iow, lack of job opportunities, isolation from family due to cost across the solant, lack of product diversity, a clear need for a cash injection from the mainland for island improvements in infrastructure, lesuire and local amenities through increased business and tourism. Guaranteed /unhindered crossing at a cheaper price Easy link with the mainland. Would be so much easier/cheaper than the ferries! Would never have the problem of having to wait 2 hours for the next boat back to the island if you miss your booked boat by the skin of your teeth! Would be so much easier/cheaper for businesses to operate between mainland and island and therefore would bring more prospects/opportunities. I have a monthly meeting just outside Portsmouth and it costs my employer over £50 for a day return on the ferry. Surely the toll would be nowhere near that much. Gives us easier access incase of emergencies instead of waiting for weather updates about the sea and the long Ferry timings Having lived on the island for 20 years until 2012 i feel that the ferry prices cripple the residents, It is also restrictive to visitors, i still have to visit the island to see my children and ferry cost is one of the major factors, a fixed link would open up tourism and the benefits associated with it, with the recent debate in the commons about the down turn in island industry and brexit effect does it not make sense to make it more cost effective to import and export goods to and from the island. I feel very strongly about the residents small island mentality people need to see the bigger picture and embrace change. Job prospects, wealth of the Island, ease of getting access to services that are being cut on the Island. PAGE 195 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Positive as it will create a lot more opportunities. Bestival moved and part of the reason was the high ferry costs for transporting the equipment. With a fixed link how many businesses may want to invest in the island? It will give young people a better opportunity to study on the mainland and get access to courses that they need to help with their future. I have spent most of my working life here and also been a commuter. The high cost of ferry use has deterred new business from setting up and sent the economy on a path to terminal decline. A fixed link would revitalise the economy and help lift many people out of poverty. The main reason I can't come to the Isle of Wight to see my parents is because of the ferry prices. Tourism on the island is failing and making it easier to access the island would be helpful The ferries add significant time and hassle to every journey on and off the island, costs deter tourists and this is having a significant overall negative effect on the islands economy and the ferry companies(one in particular) seem to see fit to cancel crossings on a whim and fares increase without reason! This needs to be looked into as it would open up so many opportunities for the island and island people! It would be a great thing! Traffic does slightly worry me, To increase the prosperity of the Island & give people more freedom of choice in commuting either on or off the Island for business & Leisure. The massive increase in cross Solent travel, has resulted in the Island being around twenty five years behind the times, in a derogative way, for all those wishing to leave or visit the Island for all reasons. We have failing schools, a shortage of GPs, a failing hospital and a lack of decent paying jobs. Anything that helps combat any of the foregoing has to be a good thing we need to encourage more business,teachers and doctors to the island as these areas are definitely lacking .Also salaries here are shockingly lower than the mainland while cost of living of extortionately higher meaning firms would have to offer competitive pay to keep people here. Increase affordability of travelling to and from the IOW, both for business and pleasure. Broaden work opportunites for Islanders. Reduce the monopoly the ferry companies have on current cross-Solent travel. Convenience for every person living on the island giving direct links to/for airports, cities, health care, freight and the rest of the country. Just as on the island when a new store is opened, perhaps a roundabout should be put in place to prevent unnecessary accidents - but to be managed better than at the Lake Tesco. The second reason I believe for a fixed linked from the island to the Mainland is as a student, I was forced to choose a sixth form on the island as he cost of ferrys were too expensive to commute. It would have cost around£2,000. We are restricted to so little, my education is limited. "Bring more revenue to the Island. Ease of cobnection to the Island and mainland. Nothing much will change but will improve for the better. Mainland England is not much different from the Island, it's time to wake up and realise that. Island motto 'we fear change' " Life on the island is currently at an all-time low, traveling off the island even for one day is expensive, time consuming and highly inconvenient, healthcare would be greatly improved as would business and job prospects, all in all a tunnel is the best option for the island to prosper Any fixed link would be better than the current system - tunnel or bridge Will increase business and tourism PAGE 196 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It's would provide enormous benefit to the islands residents and reduce the inequality the island has. Present situation stifles tourism, causes hardship, financial and otherwise to be reliant on ferry services. It is a cash drain for the Island economy and much much more. A carefully managed fixed link is a must in my opinion. If a fixed link was available, employers would have to raise our wages in fear of commuting else where. The islands wages are much lower than the mainland. Also would make it cheaper for visitors to come view attractions, improving tourism. "Well I use the ferries every week for Business but the time table is no goof as I'm late by 45 mins or 1 to 2 hrs early Barry williams " "The island needs a link to improve the access for all, expand employment and new business opportunities. A greater flexibility in when you can travel and not be dictated to by 2 companies that work together to ensure they are profitable to the detriment to the island. No limitations and available 365 days a year, not effected by weather. A consistent and reliable service that allows all to plan a journey more sensibly and accurately and not end up always being delayed and late for anything you need to do that involves getting off of or onto the island. " Having access to other jobs for islanders and giving tourists a affordable & flexible way of visiting can only be positive As above it would help all the above problems At the moment we are currently have to pay ferry cost and only travel when ferry companies run! A tunnel or bridge would be cheap and allow travel 24-7! Unrestricted travel, especially for young people, would bring the Island in line with the mainland. Ferry travel is restrictive and expensive (hopefully the charges for a tunnel would drop over time, à la Skye I believe). Many that object are retired 'overners' I expect, but easy access to the mainland for 'caulkheads' will promote a positive dynamism that the Island is in need of - especially considering the state of our high streets. A tunnel will also ameliorate the often narrow-minded mindsets of Islanders 'stuck in a rut'. It's horrible being at the beck and call of ferry companies - a evening event on the mainland usually means staying over or rushing back for the midnight ferry! So all too often we don't go :( "Mobility of people working. Ease of access to mainland and vice versa " we need better links to build our economy Unable to compete as the site keeps freezing. See notes above. Hopefully my information reaches you.It needs to be realistically feasable and affordable. The country as a whole faces a potentially difficult economic and social time over the next five to twenty years as a result of Brexit. Lowering the cost of personal transport and making commuting more reliable, therefore bringing more money onto the island to be spent here. I think that it'll attract more tourism to the Isle of Wight & be a much easier, cheaper method of crossing the Solent! Wightlink, which we have to use at present is ridiculously priced, so expensive. There prices should be looked in to! The island is a fantastic place to live, but the younger generation need a chance to decent employment on the island, I think a fixed link would be beneficial to the next generation who live here. PAGE 197 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It would provide more efficient access to and from the Island. More efficient than boat travel. Supposedly better tourism. At present not only do the ferry company's have the monopoly of how residents get off the Island but their charges are outrageous. It is the dearest stretch of water in the world. In an emergency you have to rely on the ferry times. We need to be able to travel quickly and safely to and from the island. Goods and deliveries to be supplied to the island cheaply. Not to be held to ransom by the ferries. Allow more day trippers To be able to visit family more frequently without worrying about weather affecting the ferries, the rediculous cost of travelling on the ferries and not travelling back worrying wether or not you'll make your crossing in time would be a dream come true. Roll on a fixed link. There are so many positives for having a fixed link I would be here all day listing them. If ever you needed urgent medical treatment on the mainland and it was foggy, the ferries aren't running and the helicopter can take off or land a fix link would be your only chance. Better chances of getting job on mainland and shorter times getting to/from island/mainland. Island business suffer when it comes to logistics. This needs to change to sustain an island economy. For work, healthcare and ease of movement would nt feel trapped on the island by extortionate prices of ferrys.movement for potential work would be a lot easier and faster.same with emergency services that need to come across would be faster. Business would grow, more opertunities, better education. Keeping touch with the real world Young people are forced to move off the island to seek further opportunities and life options. Given a link making the island more accessible, this may not have to be the case. It would make it much easier and cheaper to visit the Island where my elderly parents live. Better accessibility to leisure and entertainment variety. Access to wider range of educational establishments for my children. Hopefully cheaper. Better for tourism. The Island needs more visitors, people need to be able to commute to go to work {better paid jobs across the water} more money coming in means better services, more money means a better standard of living for all I think ya tunnel would solve many problems on the Island . Unemployment, a open area for visitors to get here easily and cost effective. Buisness would increase . Life for the young would be better filled instead if being stuck financially. Costs of travel. Costs of exporting island goods to mainland. Cost of importing goods to the island. Accessibility. The fact that ferry pricing actively discourages tourism e.g. The longer you stay the more it costs, people then stay for shorter periods to save money. To stop the island missing out it should be the other way round. It will make the island more accessible to people without having to pre book & pay extortionate prices on the ferry. Also, when the weather is inclement people will not have to endure delayed & cancelled sailings! fed up with poor ferry service and rip off prices Getting to see relatives on the mainland and vice Verda whenever we would like without have to book an over priced ferry More choices of transport and freedom of travel times. Very positive for the isle a big step forward Residents are being held to ransom by the ferry companies. Our economics would improve hugely with a fixed link. Allowing more freedom and opportunity, also we wouldn't be so cut off from the benefits of government funding. Our children would be PAGE 198 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • more able to experience a future on the island, commuting to and from the mainland allowing jobs and education to grow. It will give people choices and flexibility without (as is at present) being held to ransom by the ferry companies We are currently held hostage on the island by the unreliable and extortionate ferry companies. Every trip we make whether it is for pleasure, business or to attend hospital appointments is governed by cost and for most people this means they cannot afford to leave the island as often as the want or need to. If an emergency situation arises and you need to get to the mainland, especially with a car the minimum time is at least an hour. A fixed link would cut this time dramatically. Increase in business and tourism which is the main trade on the island and keep younger generation on the island Wightlink and Red Funnel together hold an oligopoly and effectively surge price over peak periods to the point that tourists do not consider a trip to the Isle of Wight economical. The island desperately needs its tourism to be revived. I have to travel to hospital on the mainland every so often, so a fixed link would make it much easier. Reduce cost of travel. Help business. Freedom for residents. Assist those travelling to mainland hospitals especially as they are cutting services at St Marys. Remove the monopoly the ferries have and the time restraints that brings. However there would need to be restrictions and planning as our roads are already full It was boost tourism, helping businesses which in turn would help the state of the island. Road Tunnel would give 24\7 movement to the mainland for jobs, healthcare and education. At the moment you cannot move freely between the mainland and IOW as you are bound by ferry times and cost of ferry. A tunnel would open up the island to more spontaneous tourism and offer business and employment opportunities to people on the island but also on the mainland Because ferrys are overpriced shit More opportunity for business from tourists as it wouldn't be as expensive as the ferry. More people could commute to the mainland for work and university without having to move off this beautiful island It will enable more freedom.for islanders and bring more money in with tourism As I believe the island is falling behind in many ways the boat timetables are just enough to get by to provide a service and all we're asking for is to see if it can be done, how much will it cost Choice of transport options will force price competition and should drive down the overall cost of Solent crossing. "A fixed link would hugely improve the accessibility to the island thereby improving tourism which would benefit businesss and would improve the economy on the island. Commuting would be a pleasure and not a daily burden " To make the island prosperous and give young people on the island a chance to succeed and prosper and be able to seek jobs and opportunities on the mainland Improve the economy of the island by boosting business and tourism from the mainland, improve prodpects for young islanders I am an islander living on the main land with an elderly father on the island I am not able to visit as much as I would like due to the increasing cost of ferry travel. I would like to go home to the island and live however this is just not an option due to low employment and cost of commuting. PAGE 199 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Island residents are in effect, held to ransom by the ferry companies. A fixed link would literally open the horizons See above Cheaper more reliable transport, not dependent on weather conditions would be good for the island' prosperity. Will be a cheaper alternative to extortionate ferry prices which will lead to increased trade on the island booting the economy Seen it in Scotland. It will attract top professionals to the island as isolation puts people off. It would make it a lot easier to access mainland England, which I'm sure would help many people especially those working across the water. We are a part of England and it would be nice to feel like that. As a student, the horrific pricing of the available transport types across the Solent prevent me from coming home to visit my family as I simply cannot afford it. If there was to be a link I could easily drive across or be picked up. I see no negatives of a fixed link whatsoever. "Freedom of movement. Since moving to the mainland the amount of freedom and choice in travel, recreation and work is freeing. The current ferry links are financially crippling, not fast and apply mental barriers for islanders working on the Mainland and also deny access to lots of businesses that could open businesses and employ islanders. It just makes sense " "Positive: Increase tourism to the island, i.e. Day visitors. Residents have access to local Southampton jobs. Business trade cheaper after cutting ferry costs. Residents more freedom in choice of travel time. Negative: crime rate may increase (i.e. Car theft) " Jobs, economy for island, tourism, wages for islanders, more opportunities for younger people on island, If supported by a good connection to the Island highway network, I see many benefits for the island including tourism, business, health and wealth. It also removes the privatised monopoly of the profit focuessed ferry companies which we should not have to rely on. to reduce the monopoly that the ferries have on the residents of the island I would like to see the Island share properly in the opportunities for business and prosperity that characterise much of the south of England. More jobs for islanders due to increased tourism, better access to mainland healthcare services, access to mainland improvement in terms of cost and convenience It will be easier and cheaper to get from the island to the mainland and back again "It allows easier access to visitors Tourism being very important on the Island It would allow flexibility for Islanders to work, or be educated on the mainland There would be improvements in Health Care " It will be easer for people to commute to the island and from the island with less of the time spent on the boats and at much less of a cost to the people having to pay for a boat journey every day to get to work or school or college. Quicker Travel, and hopfully cheaper! Easier, cheaper access to and from the island can only be a good thing for business, healthcare, tourism etc. "I would love to be able to get up in the morning and think today we will go to.....on the mainland, not get ripped off and have to plan our journey in advance. This will give many job opportunities for Islanders and just make our lives easier " A fixed link could only be a positive choice for the island. It would help tourism and would be good for island residents who need to commute. Also it would enable easier more flexible travel for islanders wanting to travel more often to the mainland especially those needing hospital treatment. PAGE 200 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It will improve opportunities for work and businesses Island and mainland be connected Being able to travel as and when you want/need rather than having to rely on an unreliable service and waste so much time sitting around waiting for delayed sailings. Business opportunities, tourism opportunities, a chance for the island to receive more investment and diversity. Employment will go up as people will be able to drive to work, people's finances will be better as they wont have to pay rediculous ferry prices. Emergency services will be able to travel more efficiently. Families will be able to see each other more often resulting in the elderly being looked after better. Because the ferry fares are so expensive. Access for Islanders for mainland jobs,to help business on the Island. for social reasons of connecting families together "Ferry fares TOO high for TOO long!! This is needed because ferry company has become TOO greedy over TOO many years" I see no negatives. Only a positive future with a reasonable link to the mainland in line with progress. The island is being forgotten, even tourism. Some people pay less for a flight to Spain than ferry travel here, including myself. A £60 flight to Spain v £72 to go to the mainland with a car. I have answered positive as I have to commute everyday to work it take a hard toll on me as I work long shifts and if I miss the last boat I am stuck on the mainland and it's not worth working if I have to pay for living accommodation on and off the mainland and my family suffer as they don't get to see me much but if the fix link was There I could always no I can get back to my family i believe that the island is losing to much money now, because the ferry prices are way to high. which means we are losing tourism, unemployment is sky high here and our towns now have more shops closing down because of cost for shipping it here. Our island is dying Easier for businesses and tourists Easy commute. Not having to rely on expensive and unreliable ferry services "I have friends and loved ones living on the island. It's like they're stuck in a prison - can only get to them or them to me at RESRICTIVE TIMES & at GREAT EXPENSE. Also would improve the island in general for tourism, jobs, house prices, health etc. " There are currently people, who, because of their economic circumstances, are imprisoned on the Island. More competition must have a positive impact upon pricing. I feel it will increase business on the island, creating more jobs and a better economy for our residents. It is crucial to the economic future and sustainability of the IOW. Notably with current funding cuts and the costs of an ageing population. "More healthcare options More tourism Access to shops" A fixed link would bring prosperity to the island, by bringing in industry and tourism, plus enable residents and visitors instant access to and from the island especially in an emergency or inclement weather The Island is dying, with one of our main employers being tourism we are not getting holiday makers arriving in the volumes they used to as it is to expensive to come here. Having a fixed link would benefit tourism, more people would come to the island, healthcare it would be less expensive to go to a mainland hospital employment as it would open up more people working in both directions, education as children would be able to school on the mainland and just the difference it would make in being able to visit the mainland without the extortionate cost and having to book a ferry and ferries being cancelled. I think more people would travel to and from if it was easier and cheaper. PAGE 201 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Need to update and modernise the island. A link will only bring positives maybe some negs but .... the positives are miles in front of negs . Not only will the link be good for the island economy but also more inportant , this will be far benifictial to the island residents and the future residents !!! FUTURE GENERATIONS !!!! they will have fantastic opertunities in front of them ... otherwise the opertunities and travels for people in and people out will always be limited improve tourism We are cut off from a lot of things which are provided on the mainland due to high cost of ferry Although I worry that it would change the dynamics of the island I think it would also benefit tourism and business. Also make it easier for residents to leave the island on trips etc. I don't see a negative point to it at all. The island needs to have easier access to and from it in order to improve business opportunities but also tourism (and so jobs and future of its residents). I have been sent to the island before for a job and due to the nature of the job ended up stuck there as the ferries finished before I could get home. This costed my company more money for another ferry and accommodation. It's obvious,the island is suffering culturally, academically and financially. It will be a positive because it will attract more tourism which the island desperately needs, gives freedom to island residents and it will increase business opportunities and make communiting for working island people a lot easier. I feel this will give a massive boost to the islands businesses and tourism, which it desperately needs. It is a lovely place that unfortunately is dying a slow death due to inaccessibility. I feel this will help bring the Isle of Wight into the modern world but it will still be able to keep its charm and character. I think it would bring more tourism to the Island and allow for easier access to the mainland and visa versa, it would hopefully allow people to come home from the mainland at anytime of night or special occasion (Christmas day) . Positive because I strongly believe that the isle of wight is being left behind and believe a fix link would help in many ways to businesses, healthcare, jobs and many other things. It would be positive for business, tourism and hopefully easier and cheaper access to the mainland. It will give us more freedom and accessibility Younger people must be aware of the opportunities off the island, in both education and employment. In hope this will reduce teenage pregnancies and increase ambitions. A permanent link will provide a confidence for residents to commute and travel, always knowing they can get home at any time, no matter of weather or price At present I feel we are being held to ransom by the ferry companies regarding cost and frequency of service. During bad weather, services can be delayed 'indefinitely', especially on the Cowes Southampton run. Prices of fares increase at certain holiday times which is unfair on families needing to use the ferries during school holidays, particularly bad for tourism. Everyone with any intelligence knows connectivity is the key to growing economies and an improvement in quality of life. Why is every major developing country in the world building more and more airports, or areas with regeneration getting better transport links. It would be positive because Red Funnel but especially Wight Link are very good at ripping the public off by putting car fares up to suite themselves. I for one just give up going to the mainland by car sometimes because they tripple the fares overnight just because it's a bank holiday or because there is an event going on on the Isle of wight. Disgusting. "A link between the Island and Mainland would do away with the isolation felt on the island and would allow the island to be more accessible by the mainlands tourism without relying on ferry companies that struggle with the pressure during summer. The fixed link PAGE 202 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • would boost the islands economy and hopefully the construction of the fixed link would see more islanders working in building and maintaining the service after it is built. There's a fear of change felt by island residents but I belive once the island community has seen the huge benefits of a fixed link, it will become as proud a landmark to the island as the needles!" "Because ferries are expensive for the amount of time it takes Always running late " Need to be able to easily get of and onto the island without ferry delays due to weather The Island is dying. The solent is a huge barrier to the prosperity of the Island. The cost of ferries & time lost travelling stops business coming to the Island. With more & more of health care services disappearing from the Island making it going to the mainland for treatment is a huge burden on Islanders. A fixed link has become an urgent need. Cheaper commute. Better employment prospects for island residents. More tourism. More business as cost less to get stock etc. Ferries are far too expensive and have the monopoly. Island residents are crippled by monopolised ferry companies, when needing to travel for work/hospital/holiday etc, also has a negative affect on tourism, due to holidays needing to be cheaper during a recession It will bring positive business & investment to the island, allow more prospects for islanders in education and the job market and make living here so much less stressful all due to ease of travel, and not being committed to scheduled sailing, sailing being cancelled, running late, etc. Plus the obvious reduction in cost for those of us that need to travel to the mainland a significant amount. Allowing freedom of choice and not to keep paying a monopoly of ferry fees. "I feel it would be good for the island for business's and tourism,bringing money to the island can only be a good thing. The cost of getting on and off the island is way to expensive at present and something needs to be done about this." I lived on the Isle of Wight up until I was 27, I left purely because there are no job prospects on the island and the commute would have been unviable due to the extortionate and unreliable ferry service. If a link were to be introduced it would open up a multitude of career prospects, no doubt it will bring more business to the island and also force the ferry companies to renogotiate their pricing. Increased business opportunities, boosted economy, better tourism, will attract better teachers, easier access to healthcare off the Island, residents not isolated by ferries when full / not running As a past resident of 18 years with lots of family on the island i feel that whilst the Isle of wight had always been a closed community, that closeness has had a huge impact on the prosperity of the island. This had only worsened in recent years wroth declining employment and high streets which are now full of empty shops Less risk of being stranded on the island or mainland. I like roads The Island is being punished for being a large rock in the middle of the Solent. Ferry companies know this, as do some hauliers, who regard deliveries to the IOW as an offshore Island! If something isn't done soon, the education and job prospects for future generations looks bleak. Stop the ferry companies overcharging by taking them out of the picture Emergency healthcare accessability, cost of getting off/on the Island Lower cost to get off island and more possibilities for wok The island is too isolated due to the cost to cross the water. If ferry were significantly cheaper and bigger then no need for fixed link. PAGE 203 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Positive for the future of the island, its dying due to the cost of the ferrys, also, I have family on the mainland and would love to pop over and see them but just cant afford to do it often,the Yarmouth the Lymington ferry is so overpriced I begrudge paying for it, commuting would be easier and cheaper, tourism would happen again, the island would thrive. Its a no brainer. For the island to progress and better itself to current and future generations we need a fixed link. Ease of travel, ease of commuting, accessing UK mainland, good for business, good for tourism and better for island residents. Easy access is an enabler, in both directions. It would transform life, from education, business and health care - in both directions. Ferry is prohibitive cost and weather/ mechanical dependent, and choice is restricted. More freedom to get on and off the island - hopefully for less money! Think it will help the island economy. To reap some of the benefits of the rest of the south East enjoy I feel it would benefit island residents and visitors by being a more flexible way to travel to and from the island, both in time and hopefully cost. Also would benefit businesses by keeping transportation costs down when making deliveries to and from the island. Would attract more visitors, therefore helping tourism and the island's economy. Road tunnel would give more flexibility It will make commuting for my friends on the island much easier. Also make visiting them hassle free, with not necessarily having to travel at certain times & not having crossings cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. It would be a huge difference to quality of life for all.. especially the young for travelling to uni or work. The difference to families that can't afford to go to the mainland would be massive. There's are no negatives in my opinion at all. Because I work on the mainland and relying on the ferry is a pain. It is expensive and you always worry you won't get home if bad weather The Isle of Wight is in desperate need of restoration, once what was a bustling holiday attraction has slowly withering away. Gaining 24/7 access to the island from the mainland will have a huge benefit to the islands economy via tourism and business alike. This will allow the young to commute to local schools and amenities to further there education and broaden there futures. Businesses will be able to expand without the huge financial loses via the ferry service which has monopolized the Solent for far to long giving island comuters no benefits what's so ever! We are currently being left behind and from being an avid supporter of the no campaign I truly see the benefits of having the fixed link now! The island needs to move with the times... The island requires a fixed link, either a bridge or a tunnel if it wishes to have any chance of economic growth, as it currently is, the island is being chocked by pirates under the guise of ferry services. ferries cost a bloody fortune "People wanting to live on the island want easier/ cheaper access to mainland you would get more people take on jobs over here if they could commute without the hassle of moving house and still be able to choose where their children are educated" Same as answer above... Accessibility to island or mainland when weather is bad can be highly difficult so another form of travel to the island is definitely needed to be highly considered My sister lives alone on the island after having moved there to run a business with her husband from whom she is now divorced The combined cost of fuel and ridiculously high ferry fares means it is rare that she can afford to visit us on the mainland and vice versa Connects the island to the UK. The island is about 3000 years behind the rest of the UK and a FL would only be a good thing for the island! It would benefit all aspects of island life PAGE 204 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The opportunity for development is crucial on a microeconomy based on tourism Giving more choice and freedom to Islanders expanding horizons both ways I feel for the island to survive it must progress and improve the accessibility to and from he mainland. The answer is in the question "The overall future welfare of the Isle of Wight" It is imperative for the future of the Island to make transporting to and from the mainland easier. We cannot keep being held to ransom by the ferry companies. The Islands hospital is stretched already and my daughter has to have weekly visits to Southampton Hospital as do some of our friends and finding the cost very difficult I believe it would offer increased flexibility for Island residents and also visitors, it would remove the need to book outings to the mainland weeks ahead and reduce the cost of travel to the mainland. The island economy suffers from being cut off from the mainland. Employment opportunities would be given a boost. More tourists would come for short visits which would further boost the economy. It also may enable shared public services with mainland which could give cost savings. Travel to mainland healthcare would be easier. The flow of goods and services would be easier and hopefully cheaper. The Island requires some serious investment to help improve function and services. More opportunities for the island to grow economically. More jobs, education, more for people to do on the island. Reduce isolation for an ageing population of whom. Many are stuck on the island and their families on the mainland and ferry prices put their families off visiting. Would create a sense of open mindedness and positive growth which is not seen much on the island. It feels quite stagnant. Extortionate ferry costs leave people unable to leave the island Ferries are too expensive, unreliable, and time consuming for island residents. I feel a fixed link is essential for the iow. The ferry companies are extortatate and are ripping people off. This is having a massive impact on tourism, businesses and employment. The price to travel to get a decent education is unacceptable. no more waiting at ferry terminals for weather/breakdowns. The island is dying and needs this to survive and flourish. Faster and easier access to hospitals on mainland in emergencies will save lives. Businesses suffer due to boat fairs delivery's etc will vastly improve with a fixed link. So Wightlink are not dominating. It is so expensive to visit family or family to visit us. The ferry is the reason we think of leaving the Isle of Wight. I see no change in the exorbitant and debilitating rise in ferry fares along side reduced sailings, poor customer service and the additional stresses caused because of this. A road link will enable free flow access to travel more, enjoy social engagements, educate the kids more, have a happier life living & not be held captive. The freedom to get better jobs, see family more frequently and be spontaneous!!! Increase tourism and boost economy It will allow people 24 hour access to their own homes and family while still being able to access the mainland facilities and work opportunities. I think it will reduce ferry prices (which no one can afford!), bring new life, tourism and adventure to the island and overall create a better relationship with the mainland. Doing business off the island without the expensive ferries, quick and convenient as and when you need. Social trips again without ferries 24 hours a day/night We often travel to the mainland. We pay huge amounts of money to leave and return and to the island and are often let down by wightlink. A fixed link will allow us to travel as we please and not when it is most profitable for the car ferry. It would allow business and tourism to reach the island easier. Island residents feel less trapped. The ferries are so inconvenient, costly and restrictive. PAGE 205 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I believe the Island needs a fixed link to encourage business and growth on the island and to give a cheaper and more reliable travel option The expensive ferry is the root of all social ills in this island community We need a fixed link. The convenience of modern day travel should extend to the island by now! Id earn so much more money if i could hop in my car and drive right through to the mainland without having to waste time waiting for ferrys or worrying about being stuck the other side due to ferrys cancelling. The economy and tourism will suffer if we dont get a link soon It shouldn't cost over £100 to get off of the island and it means we are more connected with the rest of the UK Because it makes island residents life easier. We have to spend a lot of money on the ferry cross every time we want to move to mainland for any reason and we have to accommodate our lifes to the ferry timetables. We can't go to mainland on night time, Christmas, Christmas Eve... so we would be able to travel with no restrictions... The boat faires deter people from traveling Many people on the Island feel it is becoming unaffordable, both financially, and in time, to cross the solent using ferries. They are massively overpriced, and run to such a slow timetable. If we had a fixed link, I assume it would be cheaper to cross the solent, and also, quicker as there would be no waiting time, - just turn up, pay and cross. Currently, if you're on a return journey, and get stuck in traffic on the mainland, there are times when you get to the ferry port to see your boat leaving, and you can then be subject to a 1 or 2 hour wait. This wouldn't happen with a fixed link. This would offer a great chance of young people getting off the island easily. More jobs opportunities, freedom for all, great chance of income on island from larger companies, a destination easily reached aNd people not put off by ferry travel. "My son is at the university of Chichester it costs a fortune for him to travel back and fourth, also the delays with wightlink 😢 We have a holiday let in sandown , we are asked if we have any discount with the ferries as they are costly, we lose bookings " Because the cost of travelling by Ferry is exorbitant for residents and to enable tourism to survive Having been a mainland commuter, and spent many hours and sometimes nights, waiting for ferries to get me home, I would welcome such a link! We are prisoners to greedy ferry companies . A fixed link will give us freedom to travel , for hospital appt for jobs etc Easier access to the mainland for festivals, education and employment and that is a major factor as jobs are so hard to get on the island, it would benefit more then hinder. As above. Business are suffering, young people are leaving in their drones for lack of higher education or employment, the property market can't keep up, islanders face total extortion for the vital need to get to the mainland, and those who are forced to leave struggle with childcare in terms of access to grandparents / family back home. At night the only emergency access to healthcare is a helicopter which doesn't fly in fog, wind, cloud etc we need access to mainland hospitals 24/7 by road ferry prices much too expensive these days.....a day visit from my son will cost him around £60 with the car ferry It will open the future As above I feel that to rely on a monopolised ferry service has a huge negative impact to tourism on the Isle of Wight. Ferry prices are rising annually and as someone who visits to see my close family on the Island it does put me off visiting as it is so expensive. Furthermore, I think a permanent link would greatly reduce levels of unemployment on the Island as it would give Island residents a real opportunity to get to the mainland daily to commute for work. PAGE 206 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ease of business / tourism / travel / cost Ferry costs are astronomical. Avoid going to visit family due to expense Basically the same as stated above in 9 but ultimately to give the young people of the island a better chance of work commute, improve the island's standing as a tourist destination and maybe also business will be able to find more lucrative opportunities either from the island or to the island. People who object to a fixed link are being slightly selfish in that they are probably comfortable to continue their life without any changes. The island was once prosperous as can be seen from some of the big houses now converted into smaller dwellings. It needs some of that prosperity back to rejuvenate the island, like Sandown which was a place so popular once and now the centre looks quite sad. It is difficult for anyone to start a business/get a job on the island without a Fixed Link. I was born on the Island and over the years I have witnessed industry and tourism disappearing from the Island. We need a fixed link to revitalise the Island which is currently being strangled by the greedy ferry companies. I say yes to a fixed link ! I believe the arguments against a fixed link do not truly justify why a fixed link should not be installed. The benefits far outweigh any of the consequences. The Island thrives on Tourism. We will have alot more day visitors. Business would boom as it wouldn't be as expensive to truck over loads which in turn would bring back major shopping outlets which wold then increase jobs. So it's an all win Allows ease of access - improving commuting, tourism, business, etc. We need a fixed link. Times are changing and the island is dying the transport links used currently are outmoded. hopefully a fixed link will be a cheaper, faster reliable travel that encourages more tourists therefore more business I believe the island is suffering because of the ludicrous prices the ferries are charging and constant cancellations. It would be a huge economic plus to have a fixed link. Unemployment would surely go down from which everyone would benefit. We need better access to the Island to boost business, tourism and education. Also need 24 hour access to make travel and commuting easier. It is important the the IOW has a good and reliable link to the mainland to be able to maintain businesses through daily footfall and tourism and boost the healthcare options. The island is currently expensive to visit via the Ferry etc so another option could reduce prices and will certainly make a difference to the island's economy and popularity. It would bring a lot more tourism to the island! Boosting our economy! Would be easier for people my age to get off the island and do more things Stop being held hostage by Wightlink We cannot just have the ferry company's holding residents to ransom ,and inflating the prices during the summer .... Absolutely positive - will improve job prospects and standard of living etc. Affordability getting on and off island and also flexibility Positive as the island social and economic growth is severely affected. I left the Island because I couldn't get a well paid job after university so I had to move to more affluent area on the mainland The Isle of Wight is a wonderful place and we have friends and family who live there. However the extortionate cost of a ferry prohibit us from visiting regularly, especially as we are a family of 5! A permanent link cannot fail to recoup the initial investment over time as the benefits to the island in terms of tourism and business will be huge. Positive in allowing Islanders to get over to the mainland more often to enrich their lives more. More 'quality' young people would remain on the Island. Tourism would benefit with more money being spent on the Island to improve existing and encourage more facilities. PAGE 207 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ferry cost are too high and stop visitor coming. The ferry company can charge what they like. The island has failing schools, and everything is closing down due to the chokehold that the ferries have on the island It will help with work, family, and access to university and when the need to go to hospital trips. It is time we are able to go to the mainland when we want not when the ferries dictate. Easier and cheaper transport to and from the island increasing tourism, job prospects and make it easier to those receiving not healthcare on the mainland which is unavailable on the island because that is my answer to the question "More traffic from Island equals better emoluments opportunities which results in more income to be spent on island. Thus in turn improves island facilities. More trade for tourism comes to island to also improve above." People can not afford to work on the mainland, due to the high ferry costs. A fixed link would help to reduce some of the poverty here on the island. Though the island is lovely, I feel the island is behind with the times. Tourism is our main source & it seems to be deteriorating so quickly. The ferry prices are putting so many people off coming to the island & even residents on the island going off. It will provide additional financially affordable system for people to travel to and from the island. It will also provide access to the island when the ferries are unable to run. The residents need to have an alternative to the ferry monopolies Because we won't be held to ransom over ferry fares and won't be affected by the weather. It's because of the expense and the restrictive nature of the ferries. I desperately would like a fixed link. The unreliable, overpriced ferry service impacts my life every single week. I travel back and forth to work and i miss important meetings due to the ferries. I also have health conditions requiring me to attend Southampton general hospital regularly, which takes an entire day to attend a half hour appointment. Furthermore, we have family on the island, and recently an elderly relative was very ill, due to delays with the ferries, we didn't get to say goodbye to our grandad, because we couldn't make it back in time. Obviously it can only possibly have a positive affect. There will literally be no negatives, except less people will use the ferries but people will still use them. "It would mean much easier access on and off Island. It would encourage more highly skilled proffesionals to work here. Better education and health care. I could get to and from work a lot easier and cheaper!" "Ferries are over priced and infrequent Fixed link will increase tourism, encourage more business to base here leading to more employment and better demographic of permanent residents " the island is literally dying. I grew up on the island and now live on the mainland (since 2008) and have seen the island decline dramatically over the years and this is due to the cost of ferry travel. What would happen if the ferry companies went bust and stopped operating? We need an alternative Ferry fares "- more job opportunities - easier access to mainland shops and services -cheaper travel -more tourism to the island -better chance for education improvement " Any link is better than the current situation island residents are in. The ferry companies are holding us hostage by charging outrageous fees PAGE 208 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • TO CROSS TO THE MAINLAND WHENEVER WE NEED TO AT A REASONABLE COST. Fed up of paying expensive fares on the ferry. The ferry companies have an unhealthy monopoly over the island. Wightlink in particular charge ridiculous prices even outside of peak season. Seeing the life being choked out of the island year after year is so frustrating. Education is suffering ( i have a number of friends who work in the educational system there), medical patients have their lives put at risk when having to leave the island for certain treatments and are then reliant on the ferries. The tourism and local business has taken a real battering. The island could be a real jewel for the country not just of and for itself. This insular view that I hear from certain residents on the island just can't be maintained as a reality anymore. The island needs and deserves the huge boost a fixed link would provide. we need reliable link with the rest of the world, airports, cultural events and much more that would not be dependant on bad weather, ferry breakdowns or crossing times and all the factors resulting from being cut off from the mainland. Will make it more accessible to people to come and go. I have always been against a fixed link because I like the seperateness and difference about living on a small island. However the increasing costs to our household of commuting to the mainland using a service with few competitors makes me think that a fixed link could be a positive thing for many Islanders Boat prices are extortionate and business are going bust due to a decrease in tourism caused by ridiculous boat prices Prices of the ferry are ridiculous and people can't always afford the prices if they have to travel for medical reasons especially visitors and it leaves the patients isolated. Business opportunities, access to health facilities, tourism, Island infrastructure. Easier access to services in all industries you need to be able to get to mainland immediately in emergencies . "The ferry services on the Isle of Wight have monopolised the travel services, in some cases making it completely unaffordable for people to travel to and from the Isle of Wight. As a student living on the mainland I am lucky enough to receive a student discount as a foot passenger but have to leave my car on the Island as I can't afford to pay around £60 each way to get it on and off the ferry. In addition to this my non-student friends and family cannot afford to leave the island on even a causal basis, let alone regularly. The Isle of Wight is victim of an ageing population and the number of young people studying at University is soaring both nationally and regionally; these people are not just leaving the island to study, the majority will not return to the island because there are no affordable commuter options. A fixed link would enable educated young people to move (back) to the island, bringing new skills and a thriving businesses sector. Another factor is failing healthcare on the Island - a fixed link provides access to specialist medical care only available within mainland hospitals. The main argument against a fixed link appears to be the ""ugliness"" of the fixture itself and concern regarding the Island losing its ""uniqueness"". What good is it having such a beautiful and unique Island if other people can't actually afford to visit it and witness it's wonders? The Island is essentially one big tourist attraction; a fixed link would be a boost for the tourism industry and could actually help to balance the books in the long run. And as for the squirrels, studies are actually being conducted to encourage reintegration. " The island is the poorest county in the South. People are paid less and have low expectations for themselves and their children. If is too inward looking and economically stagnant. We are at the mercy of the ferries who use us to benefit their greedy selves Easy travel to and from the mainland would be really helpful for younger people to broaden our horizons and avoid the 'no change' nimby (even close-minded) attitude many older Islanders seem to have...especially overners. PAGE 209 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Island relies on Mainland for so many economic and financial issues. A fixed link should make a positive impact on these If we leave it too much longer this place will die. Best thing for the Island! To have the freedom to come and go without the extortionate expense of the ferry. As well as no disruption to traveling if there is bad weather that cancels boats etc I am a student who cannot afford to get the ferry home as often as I need, it would also be more convenient. I was born here and have seen the island slowly die because of the expensive ferry prices we are prisoners on our own island for too long the ferry companies have held the island to ransom Improvements in health care, education and tourism We need one The ferrys are getting more and more unrealiable and expensive The monopoly that the ferry companies currently have, I find, are prohibitive to exresidents who still have friends and family on the Island. It is highly expensive. Tourism & business opportunities - more money spent on island infrastructure, companies won't look to move to mainland for quality employees, university education made easier, family connections, improved salaries/house prices, job progression With the way it is at the moment, it is too expensive to access the island, including transporting business goods, and the job opportunities are minimal, due to the prices of the ferry, if you want to work off the island it's easier to move off as well. I go to uni in Gloucester, and as it stands, it's cheaper for me to fly to France than it is to get home to the island for a weekend Mainly for the tourism which can bring the island back alive but also for residents that have to travel to the mainland for work because if they can earn they can spend money on the island. Because the island tourism industry is dying and the ferries are holding the residents of the island to ransom To give people freedom of travel 24hrs a day and not be held ransom by the ferry companies. Ease, frequency and cost of travel. Access too and from the island made easy and cheaper also quite often ferries are cancelled Because it'll be easier for students, people who travel to work, cheaper than the ferries? The island suffers badly with a poor range of employment options, low salaries (the Isle of Wight salary) a lack of medium to large companies, poor schools, expensive ferry crossings and I believe that a fixed link would improve these areas where we fail so badly. Because it means more tourism because it would be cheaper to get over to the island. Tourists get put off going to the island because it's too expensive If it is cheap to use it would benefit commuting workers to the mainland. However, I am concerned the little jobs that are available on the island would be taken by mainland residents who potentially are more qualified and this mean those who don't want to commute have to. Ferry prices are killing tourism and locally owned businesses are suffering. People will choose to go elsewhere on the south coast where they will save £100+ by not having to get the ferry It would ensure travel across the solent is not disrupted by weather, ferry technical problems and ferry staff sickness. It is necessary for growth on the island. It would allow the Island to grow in many aspects, and would also allow the Island residents a chance to get on and off the Island without spending a fortune. It would also PAGE 210 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • allow others in the UK an alternative route to get here and see and enjoy the Beautiful Island we are so fortunate to live on. "One of the main reasons for so many young people, who were born and have grown up on the island, moving away is the lack of opportunity. A fixed link would open up so much opportunity." A fixed link would be better for everyone in the long run. it can only be good thing for the island Would be easier for couriers delivering and collecting from Island so better for business. Should reduce travel costs for tourists as well and the Island will always need tourists to survive. I think the island needs a fixed link, as ferries are getting too expensive for residents. The island businesses would benefit massively from this. It means that people like myself who's family and a lot of friends live on the mainland don't have to spend thousands each year just to see them. Easier to get off and on the island for business and pleasure. Opens opportunities for work and business for my family that all still leave there. Makes is easier to visit my family quickly. There would be more reason to have a business on the island creating more jobs, and also healthcare the fact people have to pay to go and have cancer treatments just because we live on an island is disgraceful healthcare would benifit enormously I run a tyre business and at times I need stuff from the mainland the usual answer is oh there's a surcharge for the island. also I would like to take the family away moor often for day trips to air shows etc but the cost of the ferries put that off also the cancelations, we have elderly parents that would benefit better access to the main land to hospital's and relatives. also there are better job prospects for my kids on the mainland but we do not want to move I lived on the island from 97-05. I recently returned for a short break after years away and I was saddened and shocked to see the decline in my old hometown of Sandown. I think more people would visit the Island or live on the Island if there was an affordable fixed link to use to get on and off the island. At the moment the cost of travel is too high and many young people are moving to the mainland to live and work where as if there was a fixed link that was free to use or affordable then they would have more employment opportunities open to them without having to move out. More tourists would visit for day trips and short breaks as well. I think it would really stimulate the local economy and reinvigorate the Island. "Travel not affected by weather. Overall journey time reduced." better all round More tourism. Holiday times such as christmas and new year would not mean problems for transports to and from mainland. Healthcare appointments would cost less on the IOW NHS and mean more money. Money savings and lowered travel time from no ferry! It would increase the financial status of the island The ferry services are far too expensive, especially for a student travelling to and from university. A fixed link would bring more tourism, more business, and more social change - we would be less isolated as an island and more susceptible to the positive influence of the mainland. As I said before the main reason I believe we need it is employment opportunities and growth and development within their career. Also there wouldn't be such a divide between islanders and family they have on the mainland. It would enable people to see a lot more of there family and friends without worrying about the cost of the ferry. Ferry prices are extortionate Boat prices are extortionate, leaving a lot of islanders unable to leave the island. It will bring more business and tourism. PAGE 211 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • More day visitors, therefore increased revenue for the island. Ordering online goods knowing that it CAN be delivered. Stop isolating and give poeple more freedom of choices I grew up on the island and have family and friends living there. I would love to visit more than I currently do, but the cost of the ferries makes that impossible The Island is slowly becoming a large retirement home. Too many young talented Islanders are leaving as there are no jobs for them. The cost of ferries, and there timings are making attracting doctors and holiday makers to the Island harder and harder. Have many ex neighbours on island but can not afford the cost of getting to the island by car ferry. A fixed link would encourage more tourism, improve education opportunities for the islands young people and encourage a free flow of professionals to and from the island which can only encourage economic growth. Will reduce time needed on journeys and increase flexibility of options to travel between the island and mainland. Would hopefully reduce the price increases that are typically seen in the summer/ Christmas periods. The island is dying along with the people on it. For the people that want/need to work there aren't any options Because we won't be stranded on an island and forced to pay a ridiculous amount to get off to see family members in hospital Because it would be faster, cheaper and easier to get to the mainland, would encourage tourists to come for summer holidays or even just for the weekend as ferry prices do put people off coming here and would help the island to become more connected to the mainland which will help businesses and education and ease of movement. Having lived on the island for nearly 20 years and returning a few times each year I have the perspective of both sides of the water. I can see some of the concerns, but ultimately the island is withering and the positive effects of being connected to the mainland simply outweigh the negatives. I feel that it would benefit the island greatly to have a fixed link between the island and mainland. I come home to the island every six months due to the cost of the ferries and in the four years I've lived on the mainland the decline in the island is shocking. I just hope that the people and business that are turned off from coming to the island because of the astronomical prices set by Wightlink, red funnel and hovertravel will return after the fixed link is built. Easier access to and from the island can only be a positive thing. We struggle with so many aspects of life, not even considered on the mainland, from medical emergencies to post not being delivered. Having to stick to timetables and hoping that public transport links up can be a nightmare. Freedom of movement can only be a good thing. Finally bring something back to the island and will bring more economy to the island The price of coming to the island puts people off it would be better for everyone if there was a fixed link! More people would visit the island and also would give islanders more opportunities for work and education in turn benefitting the island! "Tourism is one of (if not) the main source of revenue for the island. However, the high cost of getting onto the island is dissuading many people from visiting. All of my wife’s family live on the island, however we simply can’t afford to visit them very often, mainly due to the cost of getting across the Solent. Recently this cost has also forced the Bestival to move to Dorset, robbing the island of one of its biggest sources of income. This is surely going to have a hugely detrimental impact on the financial situation for many islanders and the community itself. Additionally, the ferries are so unreliable. Virtually every time we do visit the island, we have a significant delay either getting onto or off the island (Portsmouth to Fishbourne). Additionally, in very poor weather the ferries may need to be cancelled meaning there is simply no practical way to get to or from the island. As well as being hugely frustrating, PAGE 212 this is particularly troubling in cases where patients from the islands hospital need to be transferred to either Southampton or Portsmouth. How much time is lost (and possibly lives too) because it is simply not possible to get off the island quickly and reliably. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I am aware there is a fear that if a fixed link were implemented, that it would encourage an ‘unsavory’ element to the island. However, if there was a flat toll introduced (of say £20 each way), this would surely dissuade those trouble makers from coming to the island. At the same time this would provide a faster, more accessible (not restricted to crossing times) and far cheaper access to and from the island for those who have genuine reasons for wanting to cross the water Additionally, as mentioned above, a fixed link would allow vehicles to travel on and off the island at any time. This means there would generally be a steadier stream of traffic through the cities / towns either side of the crossing, rather than the big ‘release’ of traffic which happens every time a ferry lands. This in turn would allow better traffic management (as the flows would be more consistent) and would likely actually help reduce traffic jams associated with traffic coming to and from the island. There are other factors which would require resolution (protecting the islands red squirrel population from grey squirrels from the mainland for example), however I am confident the protective measures can be put in place. Tourism is the life blood of the island, but this has seen such a huge drop in recent years, with businesses failing across it. The Bestival leaving is just another nail in the coffin. The potential social and health benefits (hospital transfers etc.) are surely evident too. Surely the only thing that can save the island from failing completely it is to make it easier, quicker, reliably and cheaper to get people onto the island. The only way to achieve this is with a fixed link, be that a bridge or a tunnel." It would make getting on an off the island so much easier, no forward planning needed you could just get in your car and go To improve the ability to get on and off the island flexibly and whenever I choose. Increase the amount of visitors and improve the economy of the island. More tourists would visit as the ferries are massively over priced, also it would help businesses, plus the income of a 4 pound toll booth would give the island more money which it could spend more on making the island more of a tourist destination like opening up the steam railway as much as it can be again. It makes it so much easier and quicker for people to travel to and from the island especially if it's for islanders having treatment on the mainland A road tunnel means that it will be easier to get back and forth to/from the island without being restricted by time tables It's a positive idea because of the cost of getting to and from the mainland. Even with an Island discount it is still too expensive to travel regularly. Also with a fixed link there is no time limit to when you can travel or restrictions at certain times of year. It will also be good for job prospects, having the opportunity to commute off of the Island can only be a benefit especially when Island companies are slapping 'apprentice' in front of most jobs these days. Because it will make it easier and cheaper to cross over, therefore making easy access to the island/ mainland and it will benefit the islands tourism and local businesses A fixed link can only bring good to the island, the same way as it has to other UK islands that have gone this route. The ferries are just too expensive for everyday travel now, and their timetables abysmal. One major factor of needing a fixed link is the fact that St. Mary's Hospital does not now offer the medical needs it used to and many have to go to the mainland now for treatment. Unless you are of the few that qualify for help with PAGE 213 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • crossing costs this can be a major expense for many. A fixed link is the future of the Isle of Wight....... The cost of travelling to the mainland! The cost of travel between mainland and island make it impossible for me to work on the mainland, even though pay is higher in most jobs on mainland, I feel if we had a fixed link island employers would have to look at paying a better hourly rate, at the moment pay is lower as we are a captive work force! I lived on the Island from 1968 to 2002 and have been back every year since, it has changed every year for the worse with more and more businesses and shops closing and a general look of decay in certain areas such as Ryde and Sandown. It used to be a wonderful place to live and I always wanted to come back, now I could only afford to do that if I won the lottery such is the price of the ferry crossings, as you are so restricted being "imprissoned" on the Island by the ferry companies. For the Island to move forwards it needs to be more accessible both on and off 24 hours a day. It's a big Island with a big population and I find it ridiculous in this day and age we don't have the access to roam. We need to have the freedom to come and go at any time, night or day without having to rely on the extortionate fares charged by the Ferry Companies, that is of course, if they are running at all when you need to travel. I have Cystic Fibrosis. I have to go to Southampton for my appointments. At this moment in time it takes all day for the round trip and I have to use up my holiday entitlement to make the trip. With a fixed link I could be back to work in the afternoon. Good all weather connection When you need to get off the Island especially an emergency you feel like a prisoner if it is not possible to arrange as you want and also for family and friends to visit you it is and added expense for them to come especially in the Summer. Easier, quicker and cheaper crossing will give freedom to and increase quality of life for islanders at the same time as increasing tourism to help our economy. It will give people who live in the island more opportunities and be alot quicker and hopefully cheaper for commuters. Anything to make travel off and on the Island more cost effective for the average person is a good thing, the current arrangement is untenable Anything that reduces the cost for journey across the solent will benefit the island in its entirety "Rip off ferry prices made by greedy ferry companies.Link would bring more tourism to the island, and making commuting, easier and less stressful, Will also benefit younger people with traveling to universities/jobs/ and interviews without, horrendous delays and ferry overcrowding in the summer." Cost of travel for tourists. Cost to small businesses to transport vehicles an large items. The tunnel itself would be an attraction in itself if set out and marketed properly. Possibilities of having tidal power generation involved could have the island as one of the leaders in renewable energy. A fixed link would massively improve the social and economic situation on the isle of wight. Aid to tourism and the economy of the island. Jobs to and fro the island. And better accessibility to the mainland when needed. The IOW is gradually declining and we need to do this study now so that we can address these issues before the IOW gets to a very poor state in 10 years time. Bearing in mind any type of fixed link may take 10+ years to materialise if we leave our decisions until then it will be too late. "Our ferry services seem to be so 19th century. When you consider cities like Hong Kong, building tunnels and bridges to their sparsely inhabited outlying islands. To expand business and living opportunities. PAGE 214 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The isle of Skye, with a population of 10,000 got a bridge. " Personally, I am neutral and can see both sides, but long-term Island residents who run businesses have expressed a wish for a fixed link, and larger businesses such as GKN seem to work at a disadvantage compared to their mainland branches. I believe that the financial health of the Island depends on its economic health, and that is more important than many of my cohort's wish for peace and quiet in retirement. Increase in business and employment, forced investing into infrastructure and very close commuting to london The fixed link would make it easier to get off the island, which is often treated as a rare treat considering the prices of ferry services. Brings more opportunities to the Island. It will make mainland hospitals more accessible and reduce the burden on st marys. An increase in tourism spur of the moment visits even if the toll cost is as much as the ferries due the convenience to travel when you want without the need to book. Islanders are likely to take more day trips like Southampton theatre due not being constrained by limited late night ferry times. The poor state of the existing links Low cost frequent transport essential to improve business, health care and education here Easier access to the island Easier to get away Easier to get home from events,Easier to see family, Would also be easier to work on the mainland. No weather delays or staff shortage delays. It's 2017 Wages are shocking on the island and business are restricted growth by being crippled by high ferry costs. It's time to bring the island into the 21st century and boost tourism, healthcare and convenience for those with families off island. "Access to and from Current monopoly from ferries Reduced timing restrictions Cost " If the stranglehold the ferry companies have on this island continues, our beautiful island will die a slow and painful death. The island is a business technology and tourism based economy. With a fixed link making transport easier and cheaper would boost the economy. You've only to walk down the high street in any town, look at the beaches in summer or even the amount of empty ferries to see the island is dying and something needs to be done We will not be held to ransom by the ferries if and when we need to travel on and off the island The island needs one or is about to die!!! Having quicker access to and from the island can only be positive, who wants to waste precious time waiting! Positive because education, healthcare and social benefits all suffer significantly from isolation from the rest of the UK, not to mention the damage done to tourism and businesses as a result. The local economy suffers from lack of access, and regressive policies. Furthermore, the cost of ferry travel is so insanely high that the failure to seek alternatives demonstrates a complete disgregard for the people of the Isle of Wight and a continuation of the monopoly of the ferry companies is little short of shameful. I was born on the island and married an island lady, we both visit family regularly. We find the cost and timing to be prohibitive. He ferry companies have a monopoly and have restricted the opportunity for both tourists and island residents to have modern easy access. PAGE 215 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Increased accessibility to and from the Island. Opportunities for young people to seek work and education off the island would increase along with a flexible option for people wanting to travel to and from the island. I have previously commuted to the island which was not only expensive because of ferry costs but also additional costs of services such as parking. I am now living and working on the mainland, as an ex island resident. With a young family here and parents still residing on the island I find that the ferry services are currently far too expensive and inflexible to allow regular visits to and from family. I believe a fixed link would have positive impact on island tourism and improve the island economy. The high cost of cross silent ferries are prohibitive for many individuals and make getting to and from the island more onerous. Just being able to travel a little further afield with out such extreme cost and the inconvenience of time wasting of ferry travel would be wonderful, and of course the obvious advantage of our children having so much more scope to explore other job opportunities, business development would improve along with more tourism. For me and my family there are nothing but positive feeling towards a fixed link. I work as a chartered professional in the civil engineering industry on large infrastructure projects. The Isle of Wight is a perfect case for such investment as I have seen the benefits that this type of project can bring to communities. The Isle of Wight is withering on the vine as our young people leave taking with them their talent and vitality. The Island has so much to give in terms of quality lifestyle but it is available only to the lucky few who have the few good paying jobs or whom are able to sustain the expense and fatigue of regular ferry travel. More must be done and whilst I am very pro-fixed link I do believe it should be a rail tunnel rather than road as this would provide the much needed fix link without increased road traffic nor losing our tourism USP i.e. ferry travel. It will bring more life to the island. With very few jobs on the island and the ferry being so expensive young people are moving off the island more and more. It's about choice. The island is one of the poorest, socially deprived parts of the UK. With two cities nearby it shouldn't be. With a fixed link people can work and study on the mainland and the economy and island businesses can grow. The island needs to change and adapt. It would further the career opportunities, without devasting income through travel expenses. The ferry system is ludicrously overpriced and takes advantage of the island residents. So we aren't stuck in the 18th centuary with poor businesses, schools and hospitals? Perhaps a little more happening on the island would likely increase output for many businesses etc The island needs help need to break the culture that the solent is a barrier. Helps residents recognise that they can access specialist services, will greatly improve cancer survivorship outcomes. Neighbouring specialist centres are just 20 mins away. Being an island of high unemployment & limited opertunities in the economy the island needs to move forward and become more attractive to businesses and investment which can only come with a good, reliable connection to the mainland. It's gone way beyond a reasonable conversation, I personally feel that a fixed link will only help the island. Young talent is less likely to move up the country to urban cities, if they can combine palatial island living, with a fast paced job market ether on or off the island. Act now, or the next generation will suffer. The Solent has proved to be a barrier to investment. Industry and business has suffered from the cost and time spent on ferry crossing. A fixed link would bring a boost to the island economy no only for industry but tourism as well. The island is stagnating, a fixed link would boost tourism and investment. It is lunacy the ferry companies have been able to run an exclusive monopoly for so long on the island, there needs to be more competition/alternatives not only to challenge price but to challenge service too. PAGE 216 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The island is beautiful as it is but is stunted in growth by the limitations imposed by the current mainland connections. Easier access need not mean a total transformation as I would favour tolls to be paid to limit the roads use and finance the operation as well as perhaps help with the impact to the islands infrastucture. "The ferries are inordinately expensive and this means I don't get to visit my family (who still live on the Island) as much as I'd like. The joy of paying £70 for an overnight trip, and getting to add nearly 2 hours to journey time is such a treat! I'd like to hope a fixed link would be cheaper, quicker and create a better community on the Island." The island is slowly shutting down. Businesses, shops even festivals are relocating as tourism has been affected by the excruciating costs of the ferries. Why come to the Isle of Wight when you can get a ferry to France for cheaper? Either we have a fixed link or the ferries need to rethink their costs - especially for island residents. i travel to the mainland quite regularly,it would be nice not to have to rely on the most expensive water crossing in the uk,and be able to go without the hassle of trying to book a ferry at the time I wish to travel Simply put, it would save time and be cheaper to cross the Solent. It would benefit tourism, business, health care and education. Prosperity - Businesses Jobs tourism reducing high costs of crossing the Solent which is restricting growth and causing high unemployment figures. The Island has stagnated and is seen as a unattractive place to invest and visit! Change is needed now before it's too late Prior to retirement I ran businesses in Ryde & we faced many drawbacks as a result of the short stretch of water. Because the Island is always being cut off in bad weather Easier access to mainland hospitals no delays from the ferries just general traffic delays will boost our tourism and gain money for well needed island based businesses will be no restriction on post that is brought over Same reasons as I put above. Expense, delays, time on ferries. Being from the Isle of Wight i would like to come back and establish a business but the current transport links prove to be too costly to make this viable. It would benifit islanders as the ferry is too expensive Easier travel for resisdents on the island and for tourists to get here. A fixed link could increase social mobility for island residence, by making access to mainland services and jobs easier, and vice versa. It could earn revenue for the island if it was council owened and tolled, and any toll is going to be better than the ferry ticket price! It would drastically improve accesability on and off island much faster than is presently possible, which is good for both business and education. But mostly because it will bring an end to the monopoly southern vectis and the ferry companies have on the island travel prices. The cost if the travel to and limited market on the island prohibits business growth and therefore job creation. Travel is also a main reason for families leaving the island, as travelling anywhere off the island can require a small mortgage. It is also a difficulty for thise requiring healthcare as the NHS support on the island declines The island is dying and being held to ransom by the ferry companies. Isle of Wight residents and their The island is slowly deteriorating with business and tourism, ferry prices have ruined this, so feel a fixed link would be positive I left the island because of the lack of jobs and high commuting prices, many others have too. If I was still there I would be bringing more income to the economy. Increased business and career prospects, improved infrastructure and education, increased competition making businesses more effective and profitable. Positive social effects. PAGE 217 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I feel a fixed link would me much more cost effective than the ferries that charge exstautionate amounts of money. Will benefit tourism, the economy and reinvigorate the Island. Long overdue. The ferry company's namely Wightlink have a monopoly on us islanders, it adds another £100 to a holiday and makes regular trips off the island extremely hard for most and for people like me on the breadline impossible! A fixed link would make life more educational for my kids as we would not be confined to this rock so much! It would also bring more tourism and therefore jobs to us as holidays abroad are currently much more economic than coming here and our main tourist towns like Sandown in particular have suffered tremendously. A cheaper and quicker alternative would be beneficial to all aspects of island life. There would be higher mobility in employment, allowing islanders to work on the mainland without high travel costs. It would also benefit tourism in making a stay on the island cheaper. There would be more opportunities for accessing healthcare on the mainland. Would bring people to the island and increase tourism life would be much better for the people that need to go to the hospitals on the mainland to get there and the price of the ferry sometime u would like others to go with u but we can not always afford Terry prices Move the i.o.w into the 21st century! Better prospects for the future for our younger generation. Without a fixed link this Island will eventually be a place of more and more empty shops, sad and miserable families who cannot afford to visit family and friends on the Mainland or have them come here to visit, and people dying through being unable to afford or get to hospital appointments on the Island !! Very dramatic view I know, but it will all eventually happen as the cost of the ferry services, plus the unreliability when they either breakdown, or weather conditions prevent sailings, has a constant negative effect to people living here. This would be a great connection to the main part of the UK. Business will prosper as it will easier to get to our island, tourism will boom as potential tourists wouldn't be pushed back by expensive boat fares. As above As it would make people's lives so much easier when traveling to and from the island, much quicker, hopefully 1 set price and no arriving at the ferry to find you have to wait up to 4 hrs to cross. The sooner the better!!! "24 hour links to mainland More employment opportunities." Because the ferry is a unrealible service and due too traffic getting busier chances of missing a certain crossing are getting higher you should be able too go too and from the isle of wight 24/7 The ferries are far too expensive and nothing is done about it. Plus the standard of service is unacceptable. It would increase the Island's economy & commercial prospects, and create healthy competition with the ferry companies. I believe it would only be positive if it could be achieved with minimal effects on the environment & if the Island's road infrastructure could cope or be improved to cope. Having a tunnel would do this island so much justice not only for our own businesses but also for work and every good way you can imagine. We do not get as many visitors/holiday makers due to the cost we charge!!! We need a tunnel💯💯💯 People not tied to timetables, can come and go much quicker in family emergencies etc, potentially cheaper than the ferry so increase in tourism; the islands largest income. Because the ferry is very expensive & not reliable Cost of ferry's & time to got across the small distance of sea PAGE 218 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Freedom to leave and return when needed, without having to succumb to weather, faults and the extortionate prices charged in the summer. The island in my lifetime has lost so much business and tourism because of that stretch of water. Teachers and nurses simply don't want to come here. It desperately needs this to allow us to become part of what is available so near to us. We need something that is cheaper than the current public transport across the Solent. I grew up on the Isle of Wight and go back regularly. Given the proliferation of cheap flights over the past three decades and the barrier the Solent is to business, it has significantly deteriorated. Businesses have few financial reasons to settle there rather than the mainland, and that has resulted in low wages, a low skilled workforce and a sharp reduction in the number of services and amenities on offer. This trend could be reversed without the barrier of expensive ferries that need more planning to use than a fixed link. The Island is dying, I moved away at 18 as there is no prospects for younger generations, limited jobs and chances to study further education. People used to holiday there but now it is cheaper to go elsewhere in Europe. I struggle to visit family because it is so expensive. A fixed link would be hugely beneficial As explained above. Having a fixed link would help so many people. Commuters for workers and students , people traveling for hospital appointments, access to all the shops that we don't have over here. The list could go on. I think it will be easier for island residents to get off the island, for some that can't afford ferry crossings etc, and then venture off in the comfort of their own car. It will alow island business to grow and not be restricted to heavy travel costs Cost and commuting "Stress free emergency travel Less stress for movement of livestock Come and go when needed" It will happen eventually. We need an alternative to ferries as they have the monopoly on travel to and from island and can charge what they want in fares. It would be much easier and quicker to gewt to the mainland and cut down travel time. I believe a fixed link is the only way of restoring the island's economy and keeping young islanders on the island to generate additional wealth. "I grew up on the Island and all of my family still live there. Due to the cost of the ferries (particularly around holiday periods) I cannot come home very often. When I do return to the Island, there are usually ferry delays that add to journey time. Also the Island is suffering from a decline in tourism and the fact that the Bestival is being moved is a huge blow to the Island's economy. A tolled fixed link would improve flexibility for both tourism business and may help to improve the shortages of skilled professionals in education and health care. " If done correctly and there was still some way to control who comes on and off the island - I don't want the natural beauty of the island to be destroyed with more and more people coming and mistreating it or travellers setting up sites everywhere. I move from an urban area up north to get anyway from all that - The Isle of Wight has great natural beauty. I still think I fee should be paid more for mainland users than islanders For ease of movement from island to mainland. To help with people finding work in other areas and for cost and time reduction More people could afford to go to the island. Tourism will increase, business will increase, family welfare will increase. The currant prices of the ferry should be illegal!!! "People would have more scope to look further for employment PAGE 219 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Much more freedom to travel without booking and being held to ransom by the ferry company " "it would be so much easier to get to the mainland,for hospital appointments ect. also cheaper than ferry`s. also dont like boats so never get over there as much as i would like good luck. " Reduced costs for business, Tourism bringing money to local people, easier access to the mainland, step towards the future. Imprived Cost and travel implications for residents and ends monopoly of ferry companies. The island is dying it will help positively bring tourists and employment to island. "I believe it may bring down the cost of living on the Isle of Wight down and without the cost of the ferry crossing I would be able to see my eldest daughter who lives in Cornwall more regularly " We have in the past always wanted the Island to have no fixed link. The rising cost however on the ferries stop us going as much as we have in the past to the mainland. In reverse our children find it almost impossible to come over (especially at peak times Easter Christmas etc) because they cannot afford the price. We also find that in an emergency when we have to use a car train bus etc the delay that is incurred can be the difference between life and death. Other Islands have a successful fixed link some initial disruption at first and then quietly it settles into our lovely Island again. The gains are very beneficial easier access for transporting goods, price rises on housing so that we can compete with the mainland if we want to use. More industry relocating here as the time scale envolved is halved. More tourism. Crime might rise this is a subject that would be open to conjecture, but with good policing this could be controlled. Just a few ideas that we personally would find beneficial. Ferries often do not run early enough or late enough for me Business investments more jobs easy access to mainland as ferrys are unreliable source of getting off also more affordable travel as most people on this island on min wages can't afford to get off instead of just busy periods in the summer have all round busy times The ferry companies are constantly charging various rates for the same crossing, prices are going up and service is not always on time. I feel they rip people off. as the ferries and hovercrafts and red jets are sometimes affected by the weather a tunnel would enable people to still travel even if the ferries etc had to be suspended and also would increase competition and may make the ferry operators think more about the cost of transport to and from the island The Isle of Wight appears to be declining. The reliance on tourism is misplaced going forward. The ferry companies price according to supply & demand, which means a lot of potential tourists are immediately put off paying (e.g.) £130 for a return trip. I feel that with a fixed link between the IOW and the mainlandit will be benifitial for local businesses on the island. Also, it will also give a nice alternative to the extortionate ferry prices which are currently an islanders only transport off of this island with a car, not to mention that it takes an hour ... I feel people would have no restrictions to visit the island. If there was an emergency you wouldn't have to wait for the next boat etc. I feel there would be a lot more freedom of movement and the island wouldn't be so isolated. "There are no negatives to having easier access to and from the island using a fixed link: - More business - More tourism - Shorter crossing time etc." PAGE 220 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The island's tourist industry is slowly dying and unless something is done soon it will become unsalvageable! It seems crazy that it is cheaper to go abroad than it is to visit the island and that is down to the monopoly the ferry companies have! I believe a fixed link would create competition to make the tourists return. Don't have to wait hours for a boat that costs a ridiculous amount. Boats stop early and you're completely stranded if you miss it. Fixed link means people are more likely to visit and it'll be easier to get off the island. The new forest is on the mainland and stringent well managed planning keep it well maintained with a preserved character whilst being a popular tourist destination. There is no reason the island can't do the same, making the island accessible and allowing the residents the same opportunities and standards of healthcare that mainlanders access. As a commuter the current charges for crossings has a significant impact on my social situation as it does with many others, being forced to work away from home during the week due to limited opportunities on the island. This keeps families apart , adds pressure to individuals, cost and time. A tunnel is well overdue. Ease of travel Think it would greatly enhance the freedom and economic prosperity of islanders It would boost business in tourism and this is the main reason people visit the island. For the future of island businesses, for better teachers, improved schooling, tourism boost, employment opportunities, ease of transfer between island and mainland. Less cost for islanders than current modes of travel via ferries. I think it would have an overall positive affect due to the fact that it would make travelling between the island and the mainland far quicker and much more cost effective, whether by increasing tourism and providing a boost to business locally and nationally by offering the opportunity to gain higher profits and or lowing costs to consumers, while saving time for them and their employees by reducing travelling times. Isolation is what will keep us from any growth on this island. An easier route for a potential influx of people gives the island a fighting chance of continual growth for generations to come and possibilities for expansion of new ventures too and from the island. Create more opportunities for businesses and tourism to thrive It will bring more people to the island, meaning that the businesses would be earning more money and pumping it back into the economy and community. It will make it easier for people to access places for education like universities and also for health issues, being able to travel easier to and from Southampton hospital. Would significantly reduce the cost of living for residentsanf make it more affordable for friends/family to visit as would stop the ferry companies' monopoly. Significantly, would make the island a more attractive place to invest in, and lead to significant infrastructure and economic growth It would bring more business to the Island, more tourism. People could afford to commute much easier between mainland and island. It would make visiting family easier which is really important when elderly parents are involved who need help and the ferry costs are astronomical especially during school holiday. It would open up more employment options for young people living on the island who could work in Southampton or Portsmouth and attend Uni or other education there similarly. I appreciate that part of the charm of the island is the fact that St a ferry journey away however I believe that socially and economically it is critical that a fixed link is seriously considered. I am certainly in support of it. Even if it meant paying a toll it would be far less than the Ferries frankly extortionate prices. Wightlink has become too expensive and unreliable. Many crossings were cancelled during 2016, and not due to weather. It would be positive at it would be so much easier to commute! My family live on the mainland and it would be so much easier to go and see them! It would make the mainland much more accessible, and vice Versa. PAGE 221 • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ability to travel to and from the mainland without the prior need to book or plan a journey. Speed, convenience and (hopefully) the cost of travel. Complete 24/7 flexibility. Fairness and uniformity of the cost of travel no matter what time of day it is or whether it is for a day or a month or whether it happens to be a bank holiday or not. I have answered positive because I think it will bring more trade and tourism to the island,in being cheaper to bring goods to the island without being surcharged like we are at the moment More people come to the island and great place for the summer and go sight sseeing The Island is in need of change and needs to embrace life and provide for the younger generation rather than become more and more a place for the elderly who often need additional healthcare, often including the hospital facilities at Portsmouth & Southampton. Lived here for 45+ years and live the Island but see the need for change for the future. Being held to random by the ferry companies is a pain in the arse. Also having to add a minimum of an hour to any travel times makes long trips or commuting a nightmare. The Island needs a future for the younger - not to be dictated to by the older who feel its there right to a past life - I am 63 and get annoyed at the negative self centered approach from lots of residents - I was born on the Island and appreciate the need to progress "Many would say that it would have a negative effect on the island, they say that it'll lead to the island losing its individuality. I disagree. It seems to me that a lot of the islands individuality has either gone or is falling into disrepair. The lovely, quaint, independent shops have already left the high street, but I think a fixed link could quickly bring them back with the right planning from to I.O.W council. Although recent economics has made it hard for an awful lot of smaller business, they haven't been helped by the large companies moving in, Prezzo and Next for example. I understand the need for these big brands, we need to fill up the ever increasing space in our towns, but also there is a direct want from the islands residents to get these places. But a fixed link would change that, with a fixed link we would no longer need the large clothing chains, cause we could have a 20 minute drive to the mainland and go to either Portsmouth or Southampton this would eliminate the need the big businesses, and over time this would create room for the small, local businesses we all miss. Obviously the only issue facing the I.O.W is not that we have a few big chains, there's other factors of course. Small independent shops aren't just going to pop up, and big chains aren't suddenly going to disappear. I believe that the islands beaches and tourist destinations are more than attractive enough to start luring more people over here if there was an affordable fixed link (the boats are NOT affordable). When tourism starts to pick up again on the island, then it'll be much easier to invest in the regeneration of our towns and villages, there could be more financial help for new businesses and the island could be much more selective about which companies are moving here. The thing that I most like about the idea of a fixed link though, is that there will undoubtedly be much more traffic on the island. That, coupled with the extra money from visitors would create a need for a new transport grid. I think that it'd be a great opportunity to revitalise the islands public transport. Increased demand could lead to a better bus service, we could reop" We have wanted this for years. The ferry people rip their customers off with their price "It would break the monopoly of the ferry companies and allow for better links to workers looking to gain employment on and off the island. With the correct pricing structure day visitors would also be able to rise and tourists would visit more frequently. " Trying to get over to the mainland is a NIGHTMARE for everyone involved. Some people simply do not have the money to travel back and forth constantly, especially if they live on the island and have a job over the mainland or family obligations. Plus, it would do an incredible amount for tourism, both for the island and Portsmouth, Southampton etc. PAGE 222 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ease of access and connection to the mainland for both business and social prosperity. For business and youth employment. Getting too or from the island is impossible. Our younger generations leave and we only have older generations. Economic growth cannot survive that way. To enable reduced travel costs and being able to come and go off/on the Island when you want to. Less time involved to get across to the mainland. The Isle of Wight is behind the times and dying it has nothing here for younger people. We have a low income on the island low paid jobs, if we have a fixed link it would open up some many opportunities for work for both younger people struggling to find work and some older. A fixed link would save the island not destroy it "cheaper to get to mainland! ferry prices are disgusting and the fares should not be allowed, we feel like prisoners on this island! more tourism is better for businesses the only worry is crime rates may rise?" Ferry companies need major competition as they seriously impact on islanders freedom to the mainland as well as conning tourists from the mainland when visiting the island. Job prospects will also be better for people on the Island helping unemployment. Will bring a lot more tourists over and increase revenue spent on the island "The Isle of Wight is in dire need of investment, and a fixed link would definitely encourage more mainlanders and people from further afield to visit and do business on the island. If funding could be found, the main tourist areas of the island should continue to be reinvigorated, then an extensive advertising campaign run to help put the Island back on the map as a desirable tourist destination to everyone. I remember that there were vague discussions into creating a large conurbation between the Island, Southampton and Portsmouth. This is a plan I wouldn't mind becoming a reality, and again a fixed link with excellent public transport links would help facilitate this. It is also important to consider that some people do not like travelling on boats, though they might like to visit the Island. A fixed link would finally be an incentive for those people to come. To increase competition and keep tolls and ferry fares down, most of the existing ferry services should continue to run if possible, particularly the Red Jet, Portsmouth-Ryde Fast Cat and Yarmouth-Lymington car ferry. Ultimately, the Isle of Wight is one of the few major land masses in the UK without a permanent link, hence a reason why it has fallen behind elsewhere in the country. I think it is about time that we had one, and I don't think sea erosion is going to happen quickly enough to make a tunnel to the Island unviable! It is currently my intention to move away from the Island as soon as I can after I finish studying, but the fixed link would do more then the ferries to encourage me to come back one day. " I think it will bring a lot of trade to the island as in the summer time it isn't very busy as the ferries are way too expensive and the businesses on the island need more people visiting the island, it will be easier for us the commute every week to work. It would be a way of accessing island and mainland out of ferry times and I feel it may be quicker and potentially safer than a ferry or jet crossing. We bloody need a tunnel The Isle of Skye has seen the benefits of a fixed link without damaging their island community. Also want more industry and more commuters bringing increased income to spend on regeneration. PAGE 223 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Easier travel, bring in more business, can see it encouraging island residents to pursue higher education and establish easier links to social events. More jobs, cheaper and faster to get across and better for tourism. "It's for the young people of the island to give more opportunities and also to give businesses a boost. I don't believe it will have a long term negative effect but appreciate that it will have an impact and disruption to some during construction. " Easier to travel on and off the island. Should be less costly. I think a fixed link is what the island needs. It would be beneficial to businesses and tourism and save islanders time when visiting the mainland. It will encourage our island to thrive. It'll be amazing for the businesses who rely on tourists, it'll be even more amazing for our education as at this time i belive our students are being classed as deprived of education. It'll mean less islanders relying on benifits as it opend up more career/ job opportunities. On top of the above having another hospital only a drive away will be super beneficial! Personally, i am terrified of boats so will avoid travel to the mainland as much as possible, closing many opportunities, yet if we had a tunnel i wouldn't be reluctant to go. Personally, i could socialise more and have more to do in the day, improving my health. It would allow us access to mainland at hopefully alot less Cost. Ferry prices and timetables ridiculous It will bring business, increase house prices and wages. Making it feel more connected to the rest of the south of England is only a good thing "It can only bring beneficial aspects for the isle of wight, ie jobs tourism and greater social standing " I run a holiday park and for our many touring caravan owners the cost of the ferry is far higher than the our pitch fees Brings more tourists over as many people do not want to pay ridiculous ferry fees Help to build the infrastructure of the island It's cheaper than the ferry it would improve the island in so meany ways! and open it up to more opportunity. As earlier mentioned the crime rate. With one of the highest in the south it will mean people have more prospects such as work and study leading to careers helping to lower crime rate in the island. It will also maybe help the Islanders and visitors to be able to travel more freely if it is cheaper to travel. Ability to generate more opportunities for employees and business to develop on the Island. This will keep young people on the Island & generate a healthier economy to pay for the aging population A fixed link will make life on the Island better as it will give easier access to all services. Better business and health prospect Positive, due to the conveniences that having a fixed link would cause. More opportunities for businesses and employment. The island is governed by bad weather, the working order of the ferries and the prices of the ferry companies themselves. "It is no longer practical to rely on a degraded, greedy boat service for anyone on the Isle of wight. From experience of trying to better my education (because the schools and FE hear are significantly below average and progression is minimal), I travelled to Havant for Sixth Form. To do this I required an academic boat pass priced at over £700 which is increasing by just under 10% a year! This is completely out of the budget for a large amount of families on the IOW, i funded my pass myself. More so, the pass is priced the same for academic staff - madness! Therefore it is very close to impossible for younger people to really achieve academically in life. Furthermore, being confined to an Island for a large part of the majority of the populations life means a lack of cultural education and PAGE 224 understanding which is damaging to societies. Businesses are also minimal on the IOW, the lack of exposure to large successful companies and organisations based on the IOW give little motivation, jobs and careers to aspire to therefore many are left with poorly paid jobs with no career or personal development. This is unacceptable in the current social and economic climate. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I have very strong opinions about this and would love to voice my own and other peoples experiences - whether this be written or spoken orally. There definitely needs to be a change and the spread of information is not happening fast enough to change conservative opinions and bring about successful change. Although nostalgia is a key seller for the IOW, it is constantly in competition with the downgrading of once successful towns because of the lack of funding available to them to keep up with economic changes. I hope your survey goes well, thank you. " Boost economy, improve employment opportunities, make commuting quicker and easier. Can escape when ever needed, not when the ferries can be bothered to run. Better access to better mainland hospitals and a more affordable mode of transport The ferry prices are very expensive, it put people off visiting and makes it harder to find well paid jobs, a person should not have to move away from home in order to be able to live well. Cost of ferries, convenience of crossing Solent, less time spent queuing. Not dependant on weather conditions. Would allow travel at any time of day and night eliminating peak times traffic problems associated with full bookings, broken ferrys, poor schedules and weather problems A road tunnel link similar to the one on the A3 at Hindhead proves and demonstrates flexibility and control with lesser impact on the environment and transport infrastructure. The Island needs it. I think it will help tourism and employment issues as well as those who have to travel to the mainland to study Ferry company prices are extortionate, we have no other option but to pay the ridiculous amouts. A fixed link would provide better access to the island in all weather conditions, times of the day, and easier overall than getting on the overpriced boats. As I feel it would bring more employment to the Island as at present it is so cut off. I grew up on the Island and the fact that you are dependent on ferries to get to the mainland is one reason why I would not move back despite owning a home there, The hospitals want to have specialised centres, meaning less service on the island. Businessses don't come here because of the expense of the ferries. I feel embarrassed to ask anyone to visit because for a weekend it can cost the visitor over £100.00 on the ferry. Increased tourism and ease for people who live on the island also hopefully cheaper costs than the ferry services Any form of road to the mainland would be a positive thing. Save time, increase tourism and generate money for the local economy, make the mainland much more accessible I can finally move back to the island and have a proper mainland job. My job literally doesn't exist on the island so I had to move off, as the ferry prices would have literally made me live in poverty if I chose to commute with them. The ferry are very dear and unreliable Because sadly the island is dying, no job opportunities for our children,unemployment levels. Healthcare services Like Skye it will only be good for business and day visitors PAGE 225 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "I lived on the island for 24 years. Have always believed it would be best to get a tunnel link fitted. Would do wonders for trade and tourism on the Isle of Wight. As well as living there for that long I felt teapot because the ferry prices were and still are ridiculously expensive. The fact that there's 2 Poundlands in Newport within 10 meters of each other just shows how bad things really are. " "After growing up on the island for the last 16 years, i have noticed many positive changes in the island but also many negative changes. spending the last 2 years at university on the mainland it has be very clear to me just how far behind the times the island is from the mainland. I've been very lucky in the fact i was always supported and encouraged to adventure off the island to achieve the best possible education i could. However i believe the idea or possibility of studying off the island (school, college or uni) is affected by the limited, inconsistent and costly transport links to the mainland. There for the addition of a fixed link would give the island student greater opportunity for education, benefiting the future of the island. Been a current business and engineering student, I can understand the importance of competitive markets. It's been clear that over the years with the increasing ferry prices to and from the island it getting harder for the many island businesses to compete with their mainland rivals. A great example of this is bestival such a shame to see it leave. I belive a fixed link would be very beneficial to many aspects of island life. " It would be a really good thing for the Island to have a tunnel. There isnt much to do on the isle of wight and ferry prices are ridiculous and they take so long and are always delayed. Therefore Having a fixed link will mean being able to travel to the mainland cheaper and quicker! It will lower the cost to get to and from the island, resulting in more revenue for the island. The only way for the Isle of Wight to move forward and keep young people here is to improve tourism to the Island to boost jobs and business. If we don't do something the Island will continue to decline and our young people leave. If this happens the future is very bleak. It will help provide a more cost effective and better means of travel for all people whether island residents or not. It will help improve the islands infrastructure and economy and provide better opportunity for those who wish to commute to the mainland to either work or for further education purposes Bring more opportunities for young people and working people More widely available job opportunities. Ferries are so expensive that university is not really feasible until such time that we have a fixed link. It will also cut travelling time. It will bring a well needed tourism boost to the island. Me newborn was treated in mainland hospitals for the first 4 months of his life he was left waiting 6 hours to be transferred I had to then wait 8 to be able to get to him. I had a c section with him and was given no assistance on the ferry and ended up very unwell. A fixed link would have meant I was able to be with him sooner and in a better state myself. Countless island residents have to travel for medical treatment such as chemotherapy using any ferry in that situation is terrible. It causes extra stress pain and financial pressure which on this day and age is totally unacceptable. On medical grounds alone islanders deserve better especially in an emergency as both ferry companies treatment in such situations is frankly inhuman. Small and medium businesses are on their knees, cross Solent ferry fares put my business at a 10% disadvantage over mainland firms. A cheaper link without waiting times would put us on a more level playing field. It would also be a massive boost for tourism and commuters as well as students. Why should our island be struggling while ferry firms make a fortune. It will make it easier for people to travel to and from the island, as well as making it cheaper, as the ferry companies will need to make their prices lower in order to compete. PAGE 226 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "The ferry companies are holding the Island to ransome. With improved public transport and a rail tunnel,traffic could be regulated. " Ease of access to the island more businesses coming to the island increased tourism I have family over there and my mum is unwell, I would like to visit more but can't due to cost and child care for my son. I have a fear of boats so can only travel in fair weather. "Better business Better healthcare Less ferries Better policing More tourism" I feel a fixed link service would allow our economy to grow and allow more employment. I feel the current services make the island unaffordable for most islanders and mainlanders and I certainly feel isolated from family due to this. This link has been needed for a long long time, making coming and going much easier for both community and business... Ease of commute to and from the island for tourism, family and health issuse I just think we need a tunel ! So we can get home without ferry delays and ridiculous costs . Small toll fee is exceptable ferry companies too expensive. prohibiting economic growth It would give more choice of travel and speed of access to the Island and Mainland. It may also provide more competitive pricing from other transport groups. Island relies heavily on tourism (or at least used to). Ferries are unreliable, outdated, and expensive. This deters people from visiting. FL would make visiting the island easier which in turn would bring more revenue and help the dying island to recover and rebuild itself. It would also work in reverse too by making it easier for island residents to visit attractions etc on the mainland without being tied to a time limit or costing twice as much to travel. I think we would benefit so much. The island has nothing to offer any more. A link would bring so much business and tourism. And also good for us for jobs and education. our lovely island appears to have reached stalemate...the cost of using the car ferries at a convenient time is exhorbitant especially peak times....our young folk do not have worthwhile career prospects here and do not have cash to commute off the island on a daily basis to earn a decent living...so time to address these issues...Fixed Link needed to boost the islands financial future. I love living on the island but it is just so restricting. The cost of 'getting off' whether for business or pleasure is just ridiculous. I along with others I am sure would be more than willing to pay a toll to use a fixed link to enable us to access the mainland without having to pre book and be charged the earth to get away. The financial drain of the ferries on businesses, and escalating costs for individuals commuting to find work, along with unreliability of crossings needs to end. Strain on the NHS, difficulty recruiting quality teachers.... Endless reasons for a fixed link A good example: returning from an event on the mainland. Missed the car ferry by a matter of about a minute. Had to wait 2 hours for the next sailing, which took 90 minutes to cross because of traffic in the solent. Affordability of transport coming and going from the island. Ability to access healthcare on the mainland Ferry co monopoly and poor service. The ability to leave and return to the IW without delaying the journey for hours. It will ease traffic congestion proplems and make the island far more attractive to the holiday makers. Please hurry. Because I spent thousands commuting to university, to see my partner, and have now had to leave the island to work as could not afford ferry, live in Lymington and am being PAGE 227 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • screwed going home to see family and friends, and my life was the island. I'm in debt due to ferry companies that I'm still paying off. I want to move back but need to be able to afford to get to work on mainland. Tourism is dying on island due to people not willing to be screwed for boat fare. People aren't getting good jobs or going to uni because of prices. It takes too long on the boat, plus being there early, plus delays for boats. To increase employment on the island and improve standards of education. I think that being an island is special. However being held to a ridiculous ransom by the ferry companies is wrong. A reasonable priced fixed link is the only answer. My children live on Mainland & it costs them quite a bit to come over & see me "It would bring more business, more competitive house prices, better teachers for education. It would also provide the island with a more multicultural community that would lead to less racism and extreme views against other cultures etc. It would bring the island better health care and easily accessible transport to other hospitals etc if needed. On a personal point, it would be easier to visit my family without paying ridiculous amounts on ferry fares and wasting an hour and a half each way for the journey. A tunnel would benefit the IoW greatly in all areas. " It would help bring more people over for day trips. And allow businesses to become more efficient. "Tourism and trade on the island is diminishing to the point ,that unemployment will be a bigger problem,not to mention firms will move of the island because of cost of crossing the solent. If we don't look at this situation now,in years to come,it will be to late,with major damage done." Cost of ferry service is ridiculous, unreliable poor service "Because the economy is dying So are the hospital failing Ferrys are killing the island We need a modern island " I think it would open up opportunities for extra employment and make it easier to travel backwards and forwards for those already working on the mainland or vice versa. We wouldn't be at the mercy of the ferry companies or the adverse weather that can affect crossings and would give us more freedom of movement which can only boost tourism for the island. Tourism would increase, helping the island's economy. There would be more job opportunities for islanders both here, and on the mainland, and business's would be able to trade more freely. Ferry prices are extortionate, especially for students. By having a fixed link, it will make it more accessible for commuters and students, as well as increasing tourism. Furthermore, it will give islanders more access to shops on the mainland, as the ones on the island are becoming scarce. The cost of ferry travel is extortionate considering the distance covered and near impossible for many people to afford during the school holidays. It discourages people from living here, limiting job opportunities, contact with friends and family, education etc... the island economy is dying and it is becoming an unattractive place to live and work due to the limitations. A tunnel would have least visual impact on the island although a stunning bridge like the Severn bridge would be a great tourist attraction and the toll system would contribute to its cost. Businesses need to move goods as and when they want, not just according to the timetables of ferries A charm of the Island is its olde worlde feel. But this is because we have poorer employment, education, healthcare and recreational facilities than similarly sized communities on the mainland. We are effectively stuck in the 1980s while most of the rest PAGE 228 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • of the UK moves and improves. I love the Island, but we can't survive and thrive without strong, affordable links. I was born on the IOW and the ferry prices limited my experiences, resources for learning and recreation. The monopoly on transport off of the island means there is a lack in competition and the businesses take advantage of Islanders situation. A fixed link could improve the quality of life for all residents, particularly youth and increase business to the area. If this fixed link was already here we might not have lost Bestival. I feel that the island absolutely needs a fixed link road/tunnel (not the ferries, as many people from experience are put off by the ferries) to increase business, career opertunities and jobs. I believe it will bring alot more tourism and business to the island if it is easier to get here. With falling rates of visitors on the island due to the high prices of the ferries the island is dying and businesses are closing all over the place it's a shame to see. The Island feels isolated without a fixed link to the mainland. A fixed link is needed to improve resources and reduce restrictiveness. Access to both mainland and island will be quicker and at any time, flexibility, ferrys very expensive, bring in more visitors to island, doesnt close if weather is bad, Because it encourages more islanders who haven't the money or experience in current solent travel to venture out and explore the uk further than the comfort of their home on the island. Positive. Ferrys are slow and expensive would be a great solution for those commuting to work or university, would mean you don't have to plan travel based on ferry times and would be more convienient I would have far more career opportunities as a full-time educated working mother if I could commute easier. I have had to turn down jobs and been rejected from jobs because I am on the Island and can't guarantee my availability. So it is more accessible to get to the iow as the ferry prices are a boundary for some people The Islands infrastructure needs a fixed link. More and more people are put off coming to the IoW (whether it's business or tourism ) The island is becoming a ghost Isle. Also more and more hospital procedures are being held on the mainland. I'd be nice to be able to get there within the hour rather than relying on the ferries (who seem to be less and less reliable) Having affordable and easy transportation to the island is essential to boost the island economy and improve the future of the young "When i took my family of three kids and two adults to bognor Regis for a holiday it cost around £18.00 on the train from Ryde. The boat fare was nearly £70.00. The island needs other quicker and cheaper travel options. To improve tourism and job opportunities as well as making it easier for students to study." Work opportunities and easy acces to facilities on the mainland. The ferries can be unreliable at times and very expensive to use sometimes you feel held at ransom at wanting to leave the island even for a day the prices can be ridiculous. I also think that a tunnel would increase visitor numbers and have a positive impact on improving our seaside towns from run down dumps to the beautiful resorts they can easily be. The ferry services currently operating are ripping us off financially and if I want to go see a show in Portsmouth I have to miss the end to get the last fast cat home or I have to pay extortionate taxi fares if I get the car ferry to Fishbourne. My daughter and granddaughter live in Portsmouth, I can't afford to visit them very often Improvements to business, including tourism, reduction in unemployment, access to additional healthcare options and social activities at a lower cost than is currently available. Having a fixed link will make it easier for people to come and go as they like. Not be bound by weather conditions or mechanical failure to get 2 the mainland. It will also bring PAGE 229 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • down prices on the island as the company's wont be able to charge the prices added on from ferry travel. There are many lost opportunities for work, healthcare and tourism that are lost due to people not willing or unable to afford the high prices and low operating times of the ferry services. A fixed link will allow a greater level of tourism and business to return to the island, which will in turn create numerous more jobs and increase the overall quality of life of everybody on the island. Improve economy, more convenience for residents. Increase business opportunity, increase job prospects, make working and running a business from the island easier (and cheaper), counter act the offsted mans negative comments on the island which have had a knock on effect on my business because of the view of the island now. I'm sick of being kept a prisoner on this island!!!!!! The constraints of the current systems and the costs of travel cause the island serious disadvantage The ferry services are very expensive & on occasions unreliable. I have been travelling to the IOW for 70 years & it's only since the new Wightlink ferrys went into action that there's been a general feeling of disappointment. More options and choice is always a good thing. A fixed link would offer an alternative to the monopoly the ferry companies have on travel to and from the island. Surely a fixed link would bring better business to the island. Healthcare would be more accessible to all. Tourism would improve as they ferry costs put many visiting the island or visiting the mainland. Price of connection, ease, business, economy, tourism are all things that will be improved. It will also mean less people leave keeping the local economy going. Much better links to the mainland, cheaper costs , easier for delivery of goods more reliable as it won't be dictated by weather We are so reliant on the ferry. A fixed link would open up employment opportunities and more teachers and health professionals would be more attracted to island life. as above..we need to move forward and develop the iow The lowered cost/ease of access would promote tourism, as well as enable more accessability for residents and businesses. Cost of travel on and off the island is far too expensive which is having a negative impact on the island re business and tourism in today's economic climate. We need to be able to have a connection to the mainland badly but we do need to make sure the security is best. I believe the islands police teams are never available so during tourism times festivals etc we would need more help to cover or train our police because we are being let down, especially with the cctv being unavailable. Also there are people who need to acces hospitals over the sea for treatment "Because you get ripped off by the ferrys as they rent the mainland and the price's are a joke,wages are low on the island so this makes it almost in possible to go to!😠 its cheaper to get France than Portsmouth for a day trip or a small break,having a fixed link is so important to the well being of the island and would bring in more money and better quality of life to the people who live here! Most of the shops have now gone from the high streets here so shopping for stuff most be done via the Internet,having the link would give us all so much option's." Ferries are expensive and unreliable, do not operate in the early hours. Draconian method of travel in this day and age. Could become a more cost effective way of traveling to and from the mainland. Work. Education. Because the ferry companies currently have monopoly over the island and they don't provide the services that people expect. The prices are extortionate and the service is unreliable as it is affected by too many uncontrollable factors PAGE 230 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Increase business from mainlanders thus increasing the islands economic state as clearly at the moment it is in decline from tourism, decrease charge to get off the Isle of Wight, " Unfortunately it is only idealistic to believe the I.W can exist in a state of isolation from mainland U.K. A chance at a positive future for all residents attempting to make a living here will be substantially improved by a fixed link. Mainly accessibility to mainland and to stop fat cats of wightlink for example bullying the residents of the island to pay a fortune every time we cross The island is going down hill becuase it isn't moving on with the times. People are trying to cling on to something that is dying slowly becuase of the rapid decline of jobs, tourism, education, healthcare while the population continues to grow. A fixed link would fix that. Islander through and through for generations but our family strongly believe now it's perhaps a time for change and why not for the better it will be very interesting to see a study carried out Bring more employment opportunities to islanders. The island needs this to happen to survive Ease of travel and timings. Help reduce goods and travel costs and time. More convenient The jobs that a fixed link will open up to the Island will greatly improve our local economy. Gives the Isle of Wight a name. Gives people like myself who can't afford ferry fares opportunities to see family without being ripped off. This link would be unaffected by weather conditions and if done right could lower the cost of travel and bring the opportunities for island people to take employment off the island as we all know the job opportunities are much more limited here than mainland Britain . Because the future needs it. Ferry services are extremely expensive and they don't even provide a great service. Social and economic mobility A fixed link would make it much easier for daily commuters, students and tourists. I believe fears regarding a fixed link to be groundless. If done correctly it would only be a positive move forward for the island. Support to businesses will be improved with greater assesability as will the tourist industry. Although care would need to be taken, so Islanders won't be held to ransom for the privilege, as with the current state with the ferry companies. If this was to be the case, then it would be wasted effort. More opportunities, easier holiday/airport travel, would free up commuting traffic locally if people worked on the other side of the solent, a toll fare would be a more cost effective crossing than ferries and should prove competitive "it seems to be pretty obvious a fixed link would be beneficial to the island and mainland populations as it will provide faster and easier, and quite possibly cheaper travel to and from the island. It would bring an increase to the tourism trade and the income that provides to local business's and would also allow mainland emergency services easier access to the island which will in turn ease pressures on the services already available to the island residents. an increase in crime would be negligible due to the obvious implementation of ANPR cameras on both sides of the fixed link and could perhaps bring a decline in current island crime levels due to our 'criminals' doing their ill deeds on the mainland where the police forces are better equipped and experienced in dealing with such crimes." "Because it would provide not only a convenient, much more affordable form of travel to and from the island for both residents and visitors, but it would also be extremely bennificial to those who study/work on one side and live on the other. • PAGE 231 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Not only this but it would be very likely to increase the islands tourist income. The island attracts many many tourists every year, the island benifits massively from this, but it could be much better. A fixed link such as a tunnel, would mean that the island would not only attract its usual visitors, but due to the affordability and convenience to travel to the island via a fixed link, it would attract many more visitors. people who would not usually travel regularly to the island due to the hassle of travelling via ferry, with the costs, (the only other cheaper option meaning leaving your car behind), would see travelling to the island for the day much easier and convenient. It would mean people could simply drive across at an affordable price and spend the day on the island as a tourist. The island is always behind the mainland. It's always the last to catch up with the what's happening on the mainland. We are separated and secluded. Universities see the island as poor, universities have undermined island students, assuming that their intelligence is lower than those who live on the mainland. Is this fare? I don't think so. The island needs to stop being so seperated and isolated. We need a strong connection, we need to be considered part of the country we are in. A fixed link would do that. It would connect us. Draw more tourists to the island, increase the islands income and as a result, the island can be improved. A chance for the island to reach its potential which I see as held back at the moment." I feel it will give the people a chance to come and go as they please Ferry services not reliable due to weather and poor service I was born on the Island and my family and have friends who still live there. I understand the concerns of the residents; currently infrastructure ie roads that would support assumed influx of traffic, funding issues to keep Island roads to a suitable standard, traffic management issues, protecting local business. However i see the absence of a fixed link as a problem. The Island would be a more attractive place to work (schools and healthcare desparately need a revamp and sustainable proposition for expertise) , business would become more competitive and it would open the doors to new business and opportunities. From a personal perspective my assumption would be that instead of a 3 hour journey to see my family I would be able to pop across for lunch more frequently and have better relationships with my friends and family as a result. The island is suffering at the hands of the ferry companies. We need to increase the manufacturing on the island and make us a hub for businesses to come to, to employ island residents . The Island needs to be part of the mainland UK and not just an accessory. It would be amazing for people who commute. It would bring massive job opportunities for both island and mainland and it would truly advance the island. Extortion of ferry travel prices trap the poorer and anxious here, Which is solely negative, even when matched against the island's identity. Reasonable rates for travel off and to the island should be considered for the benefit of island residents and workers. It is needed because of the high cost of the ferries. This island is stuck in the 1900's and needs to be opened to the real world! Better work rates, better job opportunities, better shops! It will allow both islanders and tourists to easily travel to and from the island which will lead to more people visiting as the price of travel puts people off visiting, the price of travel also can also put people off of moving to the island as it costs a lot of money to either visit family or travel anywhere other than the island which pprovides very little for residents. The increased profit of tourists coming to the island will also mean existing attractions can be improved upon thus increasing their profits further It would make island more excessable and cheaper to visit and make mainland trips easier and cheaper for people who commute The island is slowly dying and needs a link to survive For all of the above options i.e business, tourism, healthcare, education it will be a positive solution PAGE 232 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Connection with the mainland would boost isle of wight economy and give residents access to help they cannot otherwise access. Mental Health and Medical needs are not met here and we need better access to professionals on the Mainland Like I said before. It's a very expensive bit of water. People can't afford ferry prices. We are an isolated island trapped by the costs of the ferries. It would be all beneficial for the island and it's residents, businesses, tourism and health care. The Island needs this link. Health, education and business need to be improved. Bring more tourism and business to the island which I think would revive some run down areas as long as the cost to travel here is not prohibitive like it is at times at the moment, I believe there should be a fee to come to the island but no fee to leave So many people's education, health and job prospects are held back by such a small stretch of water because of the cost and inconvenience of the ferrys which are unreliable and too expensive. There needs to be a 24/7, non weather-dependant transport option to bring the island into the 21st century As it'll be expensive, but in the long run will help anybody that is commuting over to the mainland and vice versa. Having such an expensive crossing is seriously affecting tourism on the island and islanders getting away Properly connected to mainland and not held to ransome by profit making ferry company's. Because it gives road access to islanders and would give up more options at the moment we are stuck because of the bit of watcher and it is extremely expensive for parents with children that don't work. It will increase tourism. Enable easy access to mainland hospitals/healthcare. Freeing up the air ambulance and coastguard. Stop the monopoly of the ferry company. Enable 24 hour a day travel on and off the island. Stop commuters having to miss work because of bad weather. Enable businesses to trade economically to and from the island without ridiculous postage. I have relations on mainland that cant afford to visit or us them Ferries are expensive as high hell, we need an alternative to escape this prison. The Island us being cut off financially, business are suffering, tourism is suffering, couriers no longer deliver to the Island with charging big rates. The ferry company takes any freedom we have away, the younger generation are moving to the mainland where prospects are better, more jobs better pay As a self employed tradesman on the Island I need the option for fast on the spot travel options, This in return would allow visitors to the Island easy access, in turn increasing visitors that spend, increasing the Islands economy and overall long term investment opportunities for business, especially tourism and manufacturing. We need better access to better health and and education. Access to better jobs for the children. Ferry fares are unaffordable Current situation is not effective, poor for business, restricted choice, no market, high prices and poor ferry service affect business and tourism, fixed link is essential for future I want to be able to go to the mainland more often but can't afford it! The young people on the island are the future, not the old people. Iisten to what they have to say for once! We are a tourist destination and have been for many many years, our tourism is the life blood of many places on the Island, getting here is proving too expensive for a lot of guests we used to get here. The cost of the ferry any time of year, nearly works out to the equivalent spending/ travel costs for the week to stay on the mainland. It is not a retirement village, if we want our children to stay and help build the economy of the Isle of Wight, then we must look forward. Having a fixed link would be beneficial to all. PAGE 233 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Having grown up on the island, I don't think it can be argued, that the island doesn't have its own little way of life, however I know that people are no longer coming to the island because they just can't afford the ferry fare. I can't afford the ferry fare, which means I see my family very rarely. I think the lack of affordable accessibility is seriously threatening not just the tourist trade, but also other big financial gains for the island economy, the Bestival being a very good example. The ferries either need to get cheaper, or an alternative access route needs to be found. Although I have to say I also understand the implications of building a tunnel under the solent, and to be honest I will be surprised if it is ever found to be feasible. Employment, freedom to travel without timetables The ferry companies are too expensive and hold back vital business and tourism The island is dying and it needs a fixed link. The ferries are too expensive and time consuming. To improve the island which has been struggling last 7 years through more permanent jobs on island will open up more initiatives for all ages I think The island economy needs it Within the next 20 years ferry travel will become an outdated mode of transport, cars, lorrys, coaches are getting bigger. Access through Portsmouth and Southampton will be restricted because of pollution resulting in extra charges. Build the link now before this happens! Business, tourism, Cheaper travel, potenially more investment on the island, where do i carry on? This is the 21st century and it really needs looking at, the island is dying with no future for the children/young adults without them having to move off the island. I used to be against a fixed link but if it is a tunnel with the type of security it would require I think a fixed link would boost the islands fading economy and tourism sector. For many reasons. Would eventually help turn around the isolationist views of many Island. Benefits to tourism, business and healthcare. tourism,business,jobs,and not getting ripped off by the ferries its a nightmare trying to get over to IOW in a hurry..........nearly missed my dads funeral because of lack of space on Wightlink Help bring the island into the real world. "The island is suffering from a 'brain drain' as jobs are more applicable to higher achieving island students elsewhere. The ferry services are expensive and this is putting people off visiting the island which is hurting tourism and thus the local economy. Also heath professionals do not want to work on the island which is being shown by the GP's having trouble recruiting them and this is affecting the local NHS, this can be linked to the poor travel links. The Isle of Wight also has slightly higher poverty on average compared to the rest of the south and links with Hampshire will help increase local jobs and hopefully help with education. " It would encourage business and tourism to the island and enable island residents to leave without the current extortionate fees Positive for our local children, tourism, health, logistics, business...everything!! The island is struggling desperately to keep up with the times. Healthcare is horrendous, schools are below par, wages very low and no effort to improve these. The fixed link would stop the extortionate ferry costs which I have to deal with every week, tourism would increase and hopefully put money back in to rejuvenate the decrepit holiday towns on the south east end, businesses would be able to deal with the mainland more freely, with the hospital in dire straights patients would have access to Southampton for proper care, jobs and wages could rise to meet mainland standards. Simply charge each user of the fixed link £5 return or a regular traveller pass with a top up card similar to red funnel's PAGE 234 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • loyalty scheme, with increased use and more commuters it would soon pay for itself. The island needs to pull itself out Of The seventies and realise that change is not a bad thing Would bring more tourism to the island, which means more money for the island. More friends and family will come to the island a lot more with a fixed link along with many more tourists and businesses. I feel it really needs to happen. The price of the Ferries are too high and turn alot of people away from the island. At times they can get a holiday to Spain etc cheaper than holiday to the iow "The sheer inconvenience and cost of ferry travel is a considerable negative to Islanders and tourism. . The Islanders are cut off and unless there is investment , the young will continue to have few goals , independance, jobs etc and just leave school with no ambition and have more and more children who grow up with the same restraints.The Council apparently have no money, we NEED business investment here to generate careers, welfare and respect instead of just ""the 50s Island "" I love this Island but am concerned with my run down town, Ventnor. We need people with money to invest in us,with easy , seamless accessa road, not expensive, time exhausting car ferries. A toll could be implemented (discounts for Islanders for 10 years) This could raise much needed revenue.Our wonderful but over stretched hospital could benefit.More policing,The opportunities for the 21st centuary are endless. We can still have our delightful beautiful Island. " Better access to jobs and healthcare for island residents. More opportunities for inbound tourism Will make going on and off the island more accessibly, easier (for example meeting flights and trains on the other side) and bring tourists to the island making more money for shops and sights so they can stay open and keep the island alive Cheaper more efficient way to escape the island for many young people, opening a while opportunity of jobs to the mainland So exspensive, really struggle to see my children and feel lonely Better connection to the mainland, will help move the island forwards Both mainland and island residents should have better choices for travel to and from not just antiquated expensive ferry services. Tourism would be boosted and islanders would feel part of a greater community. Opportunities to work on the mainland and not have to rely on ferries or the high fares Price of tickets for the boats are extortionate. It killing tourism on the island and the local economy. Its an inconvenience when your having a day/night off the island. Having a road tunnel would bring tourism back to the island, encourage investments in local business (which would generate new jobs) and make the island more prosper. At the moment the island is deteriorating and is in dire need of a bridge to resolve the contemporary issues the island has looming over itself. Easier access and cheaper travel. It would encourage more people to visit the island for a day(not being put off by ferry prices), bring more money to the island. House prices would hopefully go up as well as pay It would provide far more opportunities for work, study and pleasure As long as the toll is high enough people using the link will be doing so for a good reason, coming to the island for a day out spending money or going to the mainland to visit family on a last minute trip. Being able to study on the mainland and still live at home would be good. yes and a walk way that you can walk throw between a seitan time of the day "The island is dying, businesses are closing even big companies don't want to come. Many people do not even know what happens on the mainland as they cannot afford to even go for a day trip with their families. PAGE 235 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Island businesses have to suffer the high cost of getting equipment/parts and no gaurantee of next day delivery. We pay extortionate carriage charges and it usually gets here in three to four days instead of next day." The ferry fares are far too high for regular use, I have 3 children and we love going to the mainland, but it's a huge expense to incorporate into the days cost. Absolutely pro-link whether that be tunnel or bridge !! Ferries are too expensive. Its hard to get to the mainland in an emergency. Would open up more opportunities to our youth. Good for business, tourism, commute for work, cheaper transport costs, access to good medical facilities quickly. The Island is in desperate need of an easier and much more affordable way of getting to and from it. The island can benefit hugely from this, not only can residents find it easier to work on the mainland our economy will benefit from more tourists visiting, maybe we will then see a few less empty shops! Makes travelling very difficult and expensive...it could be so simple! Plus I feel it would be beneficial for local business and therefore general society and deprivation. It should also improve tourism, education (by attracting better teachers), job prospects for islanders (not so restricted by location) and, most importantly, improve health care (can attract better doctors etc and get to other specialist hospitals more easily). I do appreciate it may bring other negative issues but it's hard to know what the exact effects would be without more info. Cheaper access to the mainland The ferry company's are privately owned and we can be held to ransom through high charges to travel. I feel a tunnel is a safer and more reliable method of traveling. Easier access to the mainland for those wanting to shop or otherwise visit. Also, possibility of increased tourism to the island without people having to worry about ferry times. There will be more tourism and business for the island so maybe towns such as sandown that were once thriving go back to their orginal state. It also will be alot easier to commute, and travel for holidays. It will invariably increase economic growth not only through tourism, but the ability for tradespeople to access more work elsewhere. Therefore spending more money in local shops on the Isle Of Wight. It will also decrease the cost of living and go a lot of the way to updating the Isle Of Wight into this millenium. Ferry companies are putting a stranglehold on the development of the Island "I was born and raised on the Isle of Wight and live c180 miles away The time/money and inconvenience of the ferry means I do not visit as often as I do . A tunnel would triple the time spent there and also boost the dying economy" It's vital for the future health of the island's economy and that it becomes more accessible both from a logical and financial perspective. This will assist in the creation of jobs and give much needed opportunities to the next generation of islander who currently face a bleak future of limited options or life on benefits and drugs. Reducing the cost of operating a business on the island will have a major impact on the financial and social well being of island residents and should be properly assessed. There is no job progression on the iow and it costs a fortune to leave so social and travel life is near impossible To open up the opportunities of employment on the mainland. The majority of people that don't want a fixed link are retired and don't need to think about the future as much as those needing full time employment. We can't just have seasonal jobs and zero hour contracts dominating our employment sector, we must think of the future and enable a broader employment base for all. From a personal perspective: I regularly travel across the solent with work and regularly have to waste hours waiting for boats. I also like travel to gigs but find this very hard to arrange as I usually cannot get home from them PAGE 236 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I think that due to the cost of ferry travel, a lot of people are put off of holidaying here thus effecting the islands economy.The ferry companies hold residents to ransom with their price policy and timetables. The islands economy will benefit with more visitors, islanders will be able to work easier on the mainland and house prices will get a boost as more people will want to live here knowing they will be able to get to work far easier on the mainland. I believe without this fixed tunnel link the future of the island is looking very dire indeed. It will revive all aspects of the Island which at present are dying Can only be good for the island. I was born here and despise the ferry companies with a passion these days. A fixed link has to be the way forward for pleasure trips and Island businesses. I feel the island needs this to happen to boost all sectors on the island and for it be sustainable for young working class to live and work on the island with freedom to have careers on and off the island without the hugh cost it has to commute with ferry fares. It opens everything up for us health care better education more job opportunities etc The island is dying because the ferrys are costing too much for traveling you can get flights cheaper than a ferry costs "Originally being from London & having travelled extensively have always found that leaving & returning to the island have been the most expensive & time consuming parts of my trips. Also a fixed link would make working off the island a more feasible option, opening up many more higher paid opportunities career wise. Wouldn't be a bad thing if that forced wages to rise on the island due to this. There are problems that would come from a fixed link i.e. Increased traffic, more pressure on public services & an already overstretched health service. All of these would have to be addressed but I still feel that personally the positives for me outweigh the negatives... " Ease of access to an are dependant on its tourism will only I increase the value and output of said tourism The island is dying Would open more opportunities for those living on the island, currently difficult to find work on the island and travel costs make it impossible to get a job on the mainland and affects personal life with travel times Too much money spent on slow and unreliable ferry services. Time to move into the future ! Current ways of gettIng to mainland are too expensive and require too much forward planning It will allow free movement between the island and mainland without suffering the fees of greedy ferry companies. It allows easy access to places that at the moment for some people they struggle to get to due to the ferries. It will allow more tourism to the island and also a great escape for islanders. It's considered the most expensive water to cross This needs to be sorted for everyone's benefit, even if there was a toll to pay to go through I would still prefer it to paying an arm and a leg on the hour ferry crossing Save the island from decreasing tourism affecting all lives on the island damaging business with the very expensive ferrys With deminishing frequency of ferries and rising prices it can be extreamly difficult to leave the island when and as often as one would like. Removes money and power from extortionate ferry services. because it will help employment on the island, as well as improving tourism. The ferries are off-puttingly (not to mention unreasonably) expensive for frequent travellers and the prospect of timetables make meeting appointments on the other side of the solent difficult and time-consuming; the ability to come and go from the island would PAGE 237 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • make this far easier. The prospect of a continuous public transport route to the island would make travel for tourism for young people easier - I for one would haven't been as hesitant as a teenager to invite mainland friends over to see the island if this option had existed. I am however concerned about the conservation/survival of the red squirrel. I believe we need alternative modes of transport, especially when weather can disrupt current ones available. Also for cost, the ferry prices are causing a decline in tourism and money generated here, why pay iver £100 piund to come here, when for less than that they can go abroad via ferrys! The island is outdated, it needs a fixed link. The ferries are over priced and not regular or reliable enough. The island needs more people and relies on tourism, the fixed link will assist that. Current prices are extortionate! Will boost tourism and local businesses that have been declining. Will also bring bigger companies to the island. Reduced commuting time,increase in business,increase in tourism due to lower costs,less travel restrictions and reduced travel time.easier access to mainland for social and healthcare facilities. Beneficial also to uk mainland business and tourism from iow It will be beneficial for the islands economy House prices would rise and be able too get too better jobs. With nhs troubles here ensure future generations could access mainland care cheaper and easier. Would like something like gatwick express not for cars. I could travel to work easier as well as visiting friends and family on the mainland, there would also likely be more tourism to the island Because the ferry service is out dated expensive slow and inadequate for emergency hospital transfers. People having to work on the main land due to the lack of work on the island and low pay.Not being able to visit friends and family who have had to move to the mainland because of the cost of ferry Because I can see that the island is stagnating and becoming a retirement satellite with no prospects for the young. The islands tourism is dying very quickly and I believe the ferry costs are a big part of this. With business, shops are closing weekly, and many businesses are struggling. Easy cheap crossing of the Solent I'm sure would increase business revenue. The island is very quickly dying with no prospects for our youth and jobs quickly drying up. This would give islanders a fighting chance of survival in the economic world out there. As well as not having to be totally reliant on ferry companies who cancel ferry crossings at the drop of the hat and are given free reign to charge whatever they want for the service. "Very positive. Many people do not venture off the island sure to the ferries and the hard work of the traveling, and the cost. If the tunnel was to be made then many more people would use it and business would thrive. Tourism would rise as well as businesses on the island. " The island will die without a better way to travel to,the mainland. To expand business opportunities and allow faster, cheaper crossings for residents. will help island to grow. Cost of ferry is so high and wages don't increase with inflation. Influx of visitors and business to the island. Because it will help the island economy. It's called moving on with times thinking of people who need to get off this place when need to especially when it's peak times like festivals when yet again everyday people who have lives and jobs in mainland because it's to laid back and old here. And need get on and off when need to The Island is stagnant and the high cost and poor service on ferries is a negative. I feel trapped and unable to decide my own travel plans due to the late night restrictions and cost implications PAGE 238 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Any more feasible method of transportation to and from the island, with increased easier access for business and tourism has got to be a benefit for the island, as long as the cost of using a FL is reasonable. However I fear that easier access to the island will increase crime and disorder, without any increase in police funding or officer numbers. A negative effect! Not being constricted to the times that the ferry companies run. Missing a ferry by five minutes can mean waiting for over an hour or even longer if it is a late ferry. Having a tunnel would mean I wouldn't have to plan my trip months in advance just so that I could get a cheaper deal. I'm a supporter of fixed link. Personally, I think it's a no brainer. Ferries cost me a fortune whenever I visit a university event or anything else, it's hard to network. I think fixed link is definitely the way forward, within the next decade or so. "As a born and bread islander who commutes often struggle to work my Standard hours and my living and social life are at a detriment. During busy working times I am sat waiting for a ferry rather than seeing family or am letting my Team down at work for leaving early. Many people are unaware what the other side of the Solent has to offer . Would open up horizons and what can be achieved by all " It would be cheaper and easier to get onto the mainland at all times day and night. We would be able to visit mainland more often if necessary and for friends and family to visit more. A tunnel would be quicker,more reliable and probably a lot cheaper than the ferrys that are so expensive. We need a bridge for business and access. It will make life easier for people who are unable to afford to take their car onto a car ferry (as long as there is no toll, or at most, a minimal toll). It will definitely make it easier and cheaper for myself to commute to college in Fareham rather than having to fork out money for boat and train. because it will be cheaper and the isle of wight will get more tourist to the island I think that it would increase visitors Gives islanders the option to Tavel on the mainland for the day which won't cost you a mortgage to do it. Also it gives students the choice to commute and stay at their parents house not raking up a massive student debt. Improve tourism, control the strangle hold of the ferry companies, regenerate the Island to become more financially viable. It would boost island economy, raise the job market and create an increase in tourism; it would raise the quality of life for islanders I think it would be better for the island to have the fixed link as we would not be restricted and governed by the ferry companies!! As a person I could choose when to cross the solent rather than the ferry companies dictating the times. "competitive market. Access on and off the island 24/7 - easier with hospital trips, bad flight times, meetings early in the morning on the mainland not restricted to ferry times. Able to go to social events on the mainland without the added cost of a hotel due to sparse ferry service. Access to additional emergency services. " The island is a flailing community that needs tourism to survive and flourish. Tourism would be greatly improved by people being able to come over for holidays (a lot are afraid to go to parts of Europe at the moment aswell) without having to remortgage their houses for the crippling boat fare. We should all be trying to help the island grow not smother it. Will give people more freedom of travel PAGE 239 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Better access and encourages businesses to come to the island. Gives islanders choice of products, better and none efficient healthcare as transports are time consuming and expensive. I have left the island twice for work reasons. The second time also for my daughter's further education. With a fixed link, mainland work and study would be a simple commute, rather than a necessary relocation. With a fixed link, visits to family would be far more frequent and cost effective and spontaneous. In my opinion, island tourism, business, education staff, healthcare would all improve. I for one want the convenience of a fixed link like other Islands have. We rely on tourism to survive and I know lots of people who won't consider the Island as a holiday destination because of the horrendous costs of the ferry travel. The cost of ferries and some time the time table is to high and unavailable. The coastal towns are dying through lack of tourism and investment. Employment and wages are one of the lowest and hopefully would improve the welfare and I think it would be good for the wealth and growth of the island. It gives competition to ferry companies as they have the monopoly. More people hopefully would be able to afford to get off the Island or travel to the mainland. There are so many benefits it would be so good fro the island. And it would still be an Island as there is still water all around us. Better for tourism & job opportunities for the young. Also more communicable to university if studying in Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester and surrounding areas Unreliable expensive ferrys Freedom of movement without time restrictions. Skilled workers would find it easier to commute and therefor not be put off working on the Isle of Wight which would enhance industry There need to be more options for commuters, for people seeking to get on and off the island in an emergency, for people wishing to get off the island for a day trip without shelling out expensive ferry fares. It will bring in more tourism (the basis of our economy) Support with career development Tunnel crossing will not depend on the weather Positive because of greater opportunities for islanders Can't think of any negative impact except increased traffic. Easier access to the mainland far outweighs any negative impact. Build it please. The island is in need of regeneration with empty shops on high streets in towns like Ventnor and Sandown. Newport Town centre has a plethora of coffee shops, betting shops and charity shops. In order to attract new business to the island we need to make it financially viable for products to be brought over. In order to retain good teachers and doctors and to stop or youth moving off the island looking for better prospects we need to make it easier for transport backwards and forwards to the mainland. The increasing costs of wightlink "charge as much as you can policy" is crippling all that need to use it, is unreliable as a service especially for commuters and all other customers. As beautiful as the island is, freight costs cripple local businesses. Ferry costs affect tourism. Islanders would venture to the mainland more if the costs were lower. Would be nice to be able to access the mainland with a vehicle without a period of 2 hrs for the crossing including waiting times. There is nothing worse than just missing the ferry and having to wait a further two hours. I also think it is important for the youngesters to be able to access job opportunities etc elsewhere. Business Socialism Opportunies in general are suffering greatly from having no fixed link The island has become too remote and it will get worse. I think it would benefit business on the island help tourism and make it easier to keep I touch with family.it would beuseable24 hours a day,which would be a big bonus,and hopefully cheaper, nice not to be held to ransom by the ferry firms. PAGE 240 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The isle of wight is a dying island, the ferry companies charge extorcentate rates and with a fixed link it would improve life and tourism and business's. Long belief that the cost of travel to the island will be lower benefiting local businesses and tourism. Easier access to mainland services hospital, university that is not limited, expensive & affected by weather. More flexibility cannot be a bad thing The Isle of Wight is struggling to attract people from the mainland, e.g. doctors, because they do not wish to live on the Island yet travel to and from it is time consuming and expensive. I believe that a fixed link will improve this. Because people from both the mainland and island can travel more freely, plus business could trade more freely. I fear for economic future without one Would make live so much easier for very thing Ease of travel , make island accessible for both tourism and work. Positive having the fixed link as ferry services cost so much and is not flexible also the downside of parking if you don't want to drive over, however if a road was there you could easily pop over at any time of the day It would improve all aspects of island life such as travel, tourism, business and the ability to travel to university for young people like me without paying the extortionate ferry prices Would allow freedom of travel and be less expensive for islanders I believe any fixed link a good idea, but a tunnel will not affect any boats or impact on the beauty of the island. The isle of wight is dead, it needs a cheaper quicker alternative to attract investment to provide a future for younger generations High ferry prices at the moment, lack of opportunities on the island and increased tourism from a tunnel not having to wait for the next boat/planning all other transport around the time of boat would help with commutes and mean it's more easily accessible It will bring more people to the island and it will be easier to go on mainland. Free to travel at any time you like. Faster connections. More reliable connections. More than likely to be a cheaper connection. Faster and cheaper delivery services. Better links for emergency services and healthcare. Rise in wages and reduced poverty. Better access for tourism to and from the island. Makes the island more of an attraction. Because we'd be able to get off at a time and price convenient to us and its not dictated by 3 companies trying to make money out of us. More tourism due to lower costs to travel across the water. It will mean more money for the Council repair the terrible roads here Do add a mode of transport that isn't affected by the weather and where costs can be kept to a lower price due to lower running costs In 2017 people need to commute frequently at will without pre booking every journey Life is just not something you can run to timetable.The Island is part of Hampshire not a tiny holiday hamlet and We are sick of being held to ransom by WIGHTLINK, whilst trying to just live our lives and travel often on a daily daily basis. We go over to Southampton for the football so we would use it regularly for that. Also we could attend away games and know we can get back to the Island. "We need a bridge not a tunnel, Road access to major trauma centres and specialist hospitals. A wider access to jobs and businesses for those of working age. Most people here are tired and don't need access to jobs and the ability to connect their businesses to mainland markets . " Island is struggling economically and will never truly succeed until travel costs are reduced PAGE 241 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Being able to go across and not panic worry if we're miss our boat, or cancelled due to weather, broken down! This island is stuck in the 50s education is beyond poor healthcare a joke. The people would love to see the island thriving again as it once was. Would make communting easier, delivery prices cheaper, social aspects better gigs etc Accessibility and feesibility from the ferry companies are getting increasingly difficult and expensive. A fixed link opens up more opportunity for commuting. I have previously commuted to the mainland for work and found that I could not continue to do so due to the excessive cost and the impact on my work life balance caused by missed / late / cancelled ferries. I also believe that the Island's economy and future is massively dependant on tourism and that the costs of Ferry travel are impacting negatively on this. For example on a recent trip to Europe it cost me more to leave the Island than to cross from Dover to Calais. Travelling to the mainland is very expensive and time consuming if travelling by vehicle. Commuting is very hard. Generate more tourism which is good for the islands economt. Also easier access to mainland hospitals if urgent treatment is needed. All round development for the islands evonomy,work,education,social side,tourism etc It will increase our tourism and wife our job opportunities More business and tourism, cheaper crossings. Many poorer people on the island feel trapped due to the great expense of the Stretch of water. Less unemployment and more work opportunities for island people. Better access to healthcare for seriously ill patients. Faster access to the island for emergency services during serious incidents. More availability for education and commuting to college and university. That is if you mean by "future welfare of the island" the welfare of the normal people that live and work here and not the welfare of the wealthy home owner that think that it's quaint to live on an island in a village and 'I'm alright, so screw every one else. I quite happy because I made all my money in London and moved here to retire. As of expence family members and my children having to find employment The ferry prices are stifling our tourist/business opportunities More jobs, more tourism, increased opportunities for island residents. Great for access and tourism - will unite IOW with the rest of the south. Great opportunities for residents to work on mainland and mainland workers to live on island. Tourism would increase massively if there was a fixed link and the hugely prohibitive ferry prices were eliminated. "Being held to ransom by Ferry companies. Current service providers are unreliable, and very dependant on the weather. Road congestion in areas around the ferry terminals when ferries are not running. " Cost of travel,easy to get to the mainland 24 hr access and choice. The ferry prices are too high and effecting tourism and investment on the island I think tourism would rise and in turn help businesses on the island. Unimployment could fall due to the lower costs to get to the main land. However we don't want those nasty grey squirrels over here please Because it would enable more resilience to police fire and ambulance, it would make it easier for the unemployed to find jobs and afford to go to work, it would attract more tourism It'd be useful to have as ferry prices are expensive Greater job opportunities for those living on the island More reliable than the ferries (weather, engine works ect...), could be cheaper too. Cheaper travel between island and mainland will encourage buisness and increase tourism. Which is the islands greatest income. PAGE 242 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • we can attract staff to health services that do not wish to bring their families here due the appalling education standard (thanks steve bynone). residents will have greater opportunity to experience the rest of country with the ridiculous cost of ferries (if and when the run). services can be more freely provided as they are not restricted the the ferries. Easyer to get ro and from no waiting for ferrys 24 hour service good for emergency Cheaper alternative to ferries, as people would pay even half of current cost to use a tunnel at a time convenient to them, rather than complying with a timetable. And has the benefit of being unaffected by weather. The island and the residents would benefit if it had a fixed because it would be quicker and hopefully cheaper to get across to the mainland and i feel it would also encourage more mainlanders to come over, thus helping island tourism and businesses. It would also mean if there was a medical emergency people can get to the mainland quicker for the treatments that cant ve done on the island. There a number of reasons why I think it would be a positive. Firstly, it would attract more business to the island, i.e more businesses would consider opening branches and offices on the island due to easier access. Secondly, it would significantly increase tourism as people could get to the island more easily and for a fraction of the current cost. And finally people who commute from the island, such as myself, will have to travel less and pay less to get to work. In fact I think it would discourage people from moving off the island for work. Positive as it will be easier for workers or people in general to get too and from the Isle of Wight without having to pay an excessive amount of money. When you.are paying a third of your salary on computing because there are. Not enough jobs on the island... no brainer Ferry too slow A fixed link would be very positive both from a businesses and tourism perspective. We rent out our holiday home and guests It would be a huge benefit for business, tourism, offering jobs and creating income. It would also beneficial young people as they grown and experience beyond the Island and opens up more opportunities for expanding aspirations and experiences for personal growth. We always have a shortage of quality teachers on the Island and this might open up more opportunities to employ from the mainland. It is cheaper to fly to Continental holiday destinations than it is to travel to IOW Easier and more reliable access to main land. Certainly cheaper and make island more attractive to business . With cut backs in health service Southampton would be easy to get to and this should be factored into any plan. The ferries are too expensive and limit the islands prosperity. Convenience more important than the nature of the island I've personally found there are a lot more opportunities for employment in Southampton, Portsmouth and surrounding areas. Having a alternative to boats which are restricted to times and weather would allow people to be a lot more flexible when it comes to commuting back and forth. If the fixed link was a cheaper alternative to the ferries it would also be great for tourism and a lot more money would go into the smaller business i.e. Hospitality, activities & retail. My business is depended on tourism, and I feel the strangle hold the bloated, overpriced, unfrindly, outdated ferry service has on the island is killing the chances for attracting new tourists to the island. (Red funnel isn't as bad as Wightlink, but it's still cheaper to travel to Spain for a week than to come to the island) Open areas of work as I have to take a pay cut to work on the island "Bring more to the island and industry helping business throughout the year and not just summer season. Also giving islander the opportunity to work on mainland and still live on the island " PAGE 243 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • At the moment a large number of people cannot afford to come to the island (and vice versa) because of the cost of ferries. Even a toll to use a tunnel has to be cheaper. "It wouldn't restrict use to timetables, And hopefully wouldnt cost more to use during holidays and would bring more money to the island buissness and allow them to compete with the mainland with out having ferry costs " Ferry company prices are too high effectivly trapping residents on the island, limiting job prospects for residents and making leaving or visiting the island excessively expensive. It would bring more money to the island which would boost all the businesses on the island, places wouldn't be as run down as they are now. The island can never develop efficiantly without a fixed link less expensive to pay for the ferry, will bring more revenue to the Island in the way of tourism Quicker, don't have to be cancelled due to weather, cheaper I believe the Island would benefit greatly by having a fixed link to the mainland as long as prices were more realistic than the ferrys. It is potentially a tourism boost and could be easier for Island businesses and commuters alike. My family and I would visit the beautiful places on the mainland far more often. It would save students studying university invaluable money on ferries, and make it easier to travel back and forth. Would decrease travel time to/from the island. Would increase the potential availabily of jobs/education. It is clearly dying. It needs a bridge or tunnel to give it a chance to survive. Because the Island is in need of future tourism, a lot of places around the Island look derelict and broken. Also a crossing that can be undertaken without clearing out your bank account. Many of the Islands younger residents will be able to access the mainland without the fuss of waiting for ferries and paying the crippling costs. Also for healthcare. St Marys hospital is very limited and needs the backup of mainland hospitals for emergencies and cases that they are not equip for. Good for businesses and tourism. Stops weather and time cutting us off from the mainland and can make quick travel. It would open up the island to far more people. Easy travel, more tourism, more reliability than the ferries This can expand young people's possibilities rather than being bogged down by cost With the economic environment where prisons may close, the hospital could down size and jobs with career paths are scarce a fixed link could allow people to live here but seek employment opportunities further afield. The island is so far behind the mainland in many areas and we need to bring the island up to speed with current living, education, healthcare, business and not being held at ransom by the ferries companies especially through the summer months as I have family on mainland and the cost is ridiculous It would encourage visitors to the Island and help boost tourism. It would save money for Island business and time. It would make it so much more cost and time effective Island residents to cross the Solent. It would reduce congestion on Island roads at peak times with a steady flow of cars rather than queues going to and leaving the ferry terminals. Travel would not be affected so much by poor weather conditions. The ferry companies hold us to ransom. I work in education and we can't get any quality staff to move to Island. The service is very expensive. The Wight is dying on its feet. I would prefer it to remain an island, but freer access means more transfer of wealth to the island which it desperately needs, ie investment in its infrastructure. PAGE 244 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The island is suffering in so many ways. Jobs. Education. Healthcare and tourism. We need a bright future and freedom to travel. The ferries are expensive unreliable and not effeclient. A fixed link is needed islanders shouldn't be disadvantaged because we can't afford to cross the Solent to the mainland. Ferrys are a joke. And giving the island an unafordable tag for tourism and business. I wont be trading with the island for much longer. As its not economic. But a road tunnel would make it so easy and affordable even under a toll. Tourism would spike!!! Business would have freedom to roam without the worry of affordability. Would increase opportunities to those living on the Isle of Wight It would make commuting so much easier and more affordable. Also healthcare emergency services getting to and from Southampton general would be easier. We need this. I think it will bring in more tourism and from a personal point of view visiting relatives and mainland hospital visits would be alot more convenient. It will open so much more freedom for people on the Isle of Wight. Not having to worry about the ransom we have to pay just to go to the mainland. Also it will allow people to not be put off commuting to mainland jobs I believe the island needs regeneration and this is the perfect method of doing so. However, I feel that a fixed link is not feasible, especially in terms of the Isle of Wight. The ferry's are very overpriced and prevent people from visiting the island. It will bring more tourism because they won't have to pay alot for the ferry and cost effective for us to go to the mainland Being able to get on/off the Island at any time and in a speedier fashion must be beneficial for everybody, plus the cost factor for travel via a tunnel should work out considerably less than the cost of ferry travel. Reliability for needing to leave at last minute even on public holidays, fixed price reguardless of time away Getting on and off the island when you want and cheaper for islander to get back and forth. Plus business would not suffer plus tourist would come more and more Ferries are too expensive as are most island services. A fixed link would force local companies to compete with mainland ones on price. Wightlink keep reducing services and increasing prices. With the proper management a fixed link could benefit the Island's economy. Freedom to come and go as I want and not to be held to ransom by the ferry companies. Willing to pay a reasonable fee but would like a set price all year round. It will be extremely positive as it will increase the amount of people that will visit the island and increase the income of the island. The ferry companies are a joke and they extort both sides of the island and it has been going on for too long. I think it's positive as it will increase tourism which will give he island money to spend on our towns and make it look nice. Also it is a faster way to get to the mainland and sometimes you need to get to family fast or deal with an emergency fast and have no time to spend half an hour to an hour on a boat. Cheaper travel than the expense of Ferrys which they can charge what they want to at the moment as they are the only way off the island. But If we have a bridge they will need to set better prices to get customers. I have family on the mainland ferry travel is way to expensive opportunity to work on the mainland and still live on the island Positive for the financial benefits and opportunities for island residents and those of mainland residents. It will boost the tourism economy and those resided on the IOW but working away will have more stress free work journeys. The future PAGE 245 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • i have family on the island and with deteriorating health of some it would have been nice to know i can be there quickly any time of day, and can imagine this in the future helping people It would make travelling lots easier for residents as there's a lot the mainland offers that we can't have on the island. Ferry prices are so expensive which means travelling off the island is a luxury rather than what I think it should be - a right. Ease of travelling! More job oppertunities! We make frequent trips to the mainland - we have family in England, and we're totally reliant on the ferries. The cost is rising all the time, and we've missed the birth of 2 grandchildren having to wait for a place on an available ferry. Hospital appointments are difficult. Its the most expensive piece of water to cross by ferry in the world!!! Easier hospital transfers. Access to higher education. Reduce in the disgusting charges produced by the ferry companies. "The island is fast turning into a retirement home. The cost of living is high but the wage is far lower compared to the mainland. Buisnesses are struggling to stay open. There are no nightclubs to keep what younger generation are here happy. Cost of ferries kill tourisum and festivals. Something needs to change and if the ferrys continue to strangle the island then we have to look at better options." It would significantly cut journey times compared to travelling on a car ferry, including the time taken to turn up early enough at the ferry terminal, wait and then load. To help the IoW maintain and improve its marine and engineering industries for the benefit of those looking for well paid jobs. the solent is the most expensive piece of water in the world would do the island economy the world of good if we had a fixed link It would increase the amount of people who would be able to live on the island and work on the mainland. And it would mean that people would be more likely to visit the island for holiday and pleasure if the cost of the ferry (which at most points is ludicrously expensive) was taken out of their journey. It will increase business, tourism, education, healthcare and most importantly aspirations of islanders as they will be more likely to leave the island for study or work. I feel having a fixed tunnel would help the Isle of Wight in all areas. Businesses are struggling due to the high ferry prices. Sometimes of the year it's cheaper to go aboard than visit the island and also island residents become prisoners to the island. If a fixed tunnel isn't approved then I feel island residents should have a fixed price all year round Freedom to travel at any time if day or night between iow and mainland. Get access to family in an emergency, less travelling time! Easier and cheaper to get off this rock will give more tourism A fixed link is the only realistic alternative to the horrendous, noncompetitive market in the industry. The ferry companies exploit us by charging high prices due to the zeroalternative options that are available. Therefore, a fixed link would be the only realistic option providing the pricing is respectable and justifiable for the average consumer. It would also benefit the economy significantly due to the increased demand for mainlands coming to the Island due to the cheaper price. Ferries are an archaic form of transport "Becoming trapped and disadvantaged compared to the mainland due to transportation prices. • PAGE 246 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Which is also killing tourism and local businesses " The island will become a financial wasteland without easier access Access to mainland for jods for young and education encourage development and business to the island Not having a fixed link cuts us off from the rest of the world. It makes everything more expensive and makes it harder for island businesses. Having to use ferries is a massive hasstle for most people and it is very expensive and time consuming. I think things would be a lot better for everyone in general if this were to happen .. it would be easier for people to come and go and hopefully prices would drop as well.. tourism would be better as they can come freely without having to depend in a ferry and just the fact of the tunnel that itse1lf would be a tourist attraction .. it would be moving into the 21st century .. moving forward !!!! There are pros and cons but I feel some of the island is isolated and lacks a social understanding of some of society's ever changing etiquettes. I feel that the expensive ferrys have a negative effect on the free flow of tourists and also islanders leaving the island. I believe the fixed link would enhance job opportunities for many people, especially young people. For myself, being a member of HM Forces, it's a struggle for me too return home due to expenses for ferrys and also the unsociable times they operate up too. The island will continue to fail until a link is provided. Most people now leave the island to chase opportunities as it is too difficult to work on the mainland and live on the island. There is now a bare tourist trade due to high ferry prices. It can sometimes be cheaper to go to France! Reliable fixed link to the mainland for people who work there or vice versa. Encourage more day tourism from the mainland without having to pay £35-40 for a vehicle day return. Also easier for island residents to use mainland services, shops, hospitals. Very high ferry prices have seen a dramatic decrease in tourism across our island. Hotels and business' are shutting down too often. We need to put our little island back on the map of favourite seaside reasorts We are so isolated and cut off from the rest of the country which makes simple things like ordering items from companies impossible as they don't deliver to the island! Plus, the ferry cost is just extortionate! It would mean people could get if the island Cheaper and A lot more people can come visit the island The isle of wight is in a dire state... tourism has almost vanished, businesses are suffering, we are charged more for deliveries and are almost confined to the island due to the extortionate rates the ferry companies charge to take vehicles off the island. Having a fixed link will help bring back more business, ressurect the tourism industry and also assist residents with accessing the mainland. It makes the both the island and the mainland much more accessible from either side and cant be used spontaneously rather than having to be restricted by the services the ferries offer. A fixed link NEEDS to happen! why, becuase wightlink, red funnel are to expensive, as i work over on the mainland it would save time and money, especially when the ferry's don't run due to bad weather. Because it will make it easier for islanders to travel to the mainland as well as people travelling over here whether it be for work, school or socially. Because it costs an absolute fortune being forced to go through ferry companies Very positive. We could attract businesses to the island as importing their raw materials would be cheaper and easier, creating jobs and revenue. Current businesses and public services such as the council and NHS struggle to attract and retain staff from the mainland due to the commute. Hospital visits to Southampton would be more feasible, and we could attract specialist carers to our large numbers of care homes. Tourism would be improved, although less so as getting the ferry is a novelty for some families. PAGE 247 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • However, being able to get a train direct from London to the island would certainly attract people for short breaks. It's a great idea to improve the island financially, because without tourists the island will die. It is essential for the island to be affordably linked to the mainland or it will die. Increased opportunities for everyone. We're being held to ransom. Ferry prices are astronomical and the service is terrible. Quicker and easier to be able to see family, and better opportunities to travel- saving time. Some ferries only operate to or at a certain time- therefore a funnel would solve this. Travelling to college or university would be easier and hopefully much cheaper! Positive because it will bring more tourism to the island, the Isle of Wight residents can visit relatives without paying a fortune. we need more people here for tourism but far to expensive As I said before I'm considering moving to the mainland as there isn't the opportunities over here for younger people and the ferry fare is so expensive It can only bring positives to the island more business more tourists and above all the stupid amounts of money it costs to cross the water at present Feel that a fixed link would help tourism & the Islands employment potential. Also as a carer I feel that to be able to access off Island resources at anytime of time of day is vital in case of emergency "The Isle of Wight is a lovely place to grow up, or to grow old. But as far as living, it is abysmal. Education opportunities, job opportunities and career progression are few and far between, and the current cost of travelling is a wage killer, making it not worth the trouble, as well as trying to fit into current ferry timetables, which doubles travel time. The reverse can also be said. Those wishing to travel to the isle of Wight for a day trip, or holiday, are put off by high travel costs and variable ferry times, meaning local business suffer greatly. " No.ferry costs quick and easy Ease Without a fixed link,be it tunnel or bridge the island will die financially because of the stranglehold that the ferry companies have over our future. An unfair monopoly shouldn't exist when the prosperity and welfare of an entire community is at stake, i.e travelling to the hospital in Southampton for appointments. Due to extortionate ferry prices and the very unreliable service offered by the ferry companies including having to pay extra for deliveries/postage I feel that we are being held to ramsome and a fixed link is the only way forward. I would like to travel to the mainland more often without having to consider whether I could afford to do so and without having to plan in advance. I would much rather pay a fixed link toll. The ferry prices are astronomical and make journeying to and from the island awkward. The present cross Solent duopoly is strangling the island to death. I think it would benefit both sides of the solent. No travelling restrictions on times you can travel to and from the mainland. A possible reductions in travel costs. The hours saved waiting for the ferry ,come and go as you please and cost of ferry is a lot "Ferry services are astronomical cost wise, slow if taking car and we're cut off during bad weather. Poor or no service over festive periods, also prices hiked for popular events and times of year. Simple trip to Southampton General Hospital costs me £40 by time I've paid car parking, ferry and taxi, also it takes pretty much whole day..if could drive direct would save time and cost. I run holiday accommodation and have lots of enquiries that actually do not proceed and cite ferry costs...sick to death of having to put up with crap service, schedules for high PAGE 248 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • costs of travel. Tunnel toll would be expected and could be reduced for frequent travellers. Need to bring the island into the future and not become 'retirement island'." The island is becoming isolated and the opportunities for young people are almost nonexistent. It should be an option to be able to stay in the place you grew up, but for young Islanders with ambition, it is simply not possible. it will be good for the island To be able to go to the mainland at any time for a reasonable cost. To be able to come and go at the time of my own choosing rather than when the ferries want to run. As I have family in the north and travel up there quite often this would be an advantage and I would be able to go at whatever time I wish on in any weather. I have selected positive as I feel a fixed link would help the unemployment issue on the Isle of Wight. Also if we have another fire like we did in Cowes a fire engine could be over here to help us in no time at all. "Ease of access. Ferries are too expensive and too restrictive. 24 hours access is priceless and also key to rebuilding the islands faltering tourism industry. People need to understand that times change and you need to adapt. The times of small businesses are gone. It's time to move on and catch up with the rest of the country." Better financial link to the mainland for business. Current costs, timings and frequently delayed/cancelled ferry crossings in strangling the island and its residents. It would aid the island by increasing revenue streams It will give more options for getting to and from the Island, thus benefiting those living there and reducing costs for people visiting family on the Island. Cheaper for people to travel can help local businesses and tourism. Gives children a better choice for education and jobs. Be easier to get to hospital apppointments in Southampton The ferry service is unreliable and certainly not frequent enough, plus the cost is extortionate. A fixed toll for the bridge would be such an asset for students, employment and being able to access alternative hospitals. To help keep the IOW from becoming a wasteland! " My argument for a study: It will improve island residents prospects in terms of employment and education. It will result in a better standard of living due to access to mainland facilities such as healthcare. It will give islander freedom of movement which some lack at present because of financial strains and increasing cost of ferry travel. The island needs tourism to improve in order to create jobs which has been lost because of the downturn of the islands popularity, caused by lack of funding resulting in many towns feeling run down. Cost, length and restricted times of ferry travel puts off weekenders and daytrippers from travelling across, a fixed link would bring more of this type of travellers increasing island revenue, allowing long term investment and much needed money to improve quality of life." Road tunnel suits me "Will make it easier for trading-not having to rely solely on the ferries. Will make it easier for visitors from the mainland,boosting income for the island. Easier if island residents need to get to the mainland urgently." I pick positive as I believe it makes life so much easier and makes people able to be flexible who live on the IOW. It would make transport so Much cheaper and thus increase tourism. Especially with the loss of bestival the decline in tourism will indeed increase. It PAGE 249 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • would also be easier for students in education to be able to have access to higher achieving schools on the mainland and also for the residents to have quick and easy access to the NHS in the cities. This is especially important in emergencies when people need to be airlifted to southampton (how much cheaper would it be to be able to send an ambulance over to southampton!?) it would also benefit the environment with having less boat crossings and would ensure a decrease in fumes. People employed on the boats I believe could have new employment potential on the crossing or in other areas and I believe that business would bloom with the prospect of more visitors to the Isle of Wight. Bring the Isle of Wight to the modern world and ensure that the high rate in suicide decreases as people have a better value of life with the increased opportunities and the lesser financial strain that comes with the ferry crossings! More accessible for EVERYTHING, there is a lack of jobs on the Island especially for younger generation, will give them more choice and easier travel for work off island. Stop ferry monopoly holding residents to ransom with extortionate prices as a regular traveller It makes sense to get this fixed link done to save money (hopefully) but most of all time to get to the mainland, Without a fixed link it stops the Island from being as progressive as it can be, we need investment to bring the island back into the 21st century, Jobs and good ones will keep the talented island youth from leaving we must stop looking at the island with old tired eyes and look to towards a future without being held to ransom by the ferry companies. The cost of ferry travel, and in particular the increase during seasonal events, is something that could be addressed by a tunnel. Ferry prices to high , better job choices , better tourism for the island "It creates easier access to those living on the island and those from the mainland who need to make frequent trips to the island i.e. Visiting family or work. It would be positive for business expansion on and off the island, and will be beneficial to increasing tourism. It will give island residents more opportunities for education throughout Hampshire and neighbouring counties, without having to move away. It will be a cheaper means of travel. The ferry costs are too high, it's almost robbery the amount they charge. Businesses are failing on the island due to it, and even the world renowned Bestival has left the island due to the costs of maintaining such an event on the island, fuelled by the ever increasing cost to travel there. It should not cost money at all, for island residents to leave and return to the island, surely that is classed as imprisonment?" "This will allow more access to Southampton and Portsmouth medical services, without the extra expenses. Better access to the tourism industry which would improve the island economy." good for economics of island Quicker and easier access to getting from the mainland to the island and vice versa. When my grandparents were dying on the mainland due to ferries not running through the night we couldn't get to Portsmouth so the fixed link would be easier and better! It will increase people's interests in coming to the island because it is more affordable/ it's fixed so for those who cannot handle ferries will be able to enjoy the iow. It will Increase tourism and increase money for the island. Too many people cannot even afford to leave the island for a holiday because the ferrys are to expensive so any cheaper option can only be a good thing Won't cost as much to get to the mainland to cost family. Cost of living down, house prices up and more job opportunities for everyone. Because it would take a lot less time when travelling to the mainland as well as being a lot cheaper than the ferry prices. Prices are a joke on the ferries and having a tunnel we wouldn't have to worry about missing a boat and waiting hours, especially as I have kids. There are a lot of disabled children on the island having to take whole days off school to spend most the day travelling for a 5/10minute appointment in Southampton or PAGE 250 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Portsmouth. This is a huge strain for families as the hospital here is equipt for the services needed. A tunnel would be so much easier. Jobs would be more attainable for people looking off the island and means the ferry companies won't get most of the pay check. Also tourism as during holiday times the ferrys are charging hundreds of pounds Businesses are closing and moving work off the island due to the inaccessibility of it. Families are moving off the island to find better opportunities for them and their children. The amount of working age people who move away is getting bigger thus there are not enough workers to support the ever increasing elderly population. Getting on and off the Island is ridiculously restricted and costly. I have child how was born with a severe heart defect and would help us travel more effectively I think that they have a bridge in Skye and the ferries still run and this has not had a detrimental effect on the island. I think that a fixed link will allow for better opportunities for island residents and enable us to recruit excellent health care and other public services. Plus I think you have to ask does the island have a future if we can't sustain services currently due to not being able to attract people to the island to work. Ferries are expensive, unreliable and time consuming and make living on the island an absolute chore. I would visit the IOW to see my family more. Because the island will have a better future, more business and more opportunities for young ones growing up here N/A "Encourage visitors and companies to come to the island as the ferry cost have made it seem un-appealing As a student I would be feel much more able to visit home as the cost would not be so high" As it would be so much easier when going away for trips Easier access to the island, also ability to travel at any time Easier, quicker and cheaper access to jobs, family and social entertainment. Rise in wages, more freedom. COST. Ferries are too expensive and add too much time onto travelling The iow council is determined to run the island into the ground. As a parent of 3 children, aged 12-15, they no thoughts to their future. The education is poor, teachers hard to replace and doctors. The island used to be a place where young doctors, teachers, nurses, paramedics wanted to come to work and raise their families. Now they can't employ at all. The education is now the poorest it's ever been. Socially there isn't a huge amount for children. The council took funding from west wight leisure centre, ryde waterside pool, yet the council run gyms thrive. They played a huge part in the closing down of the local ice rink affecting hundreds of children. Police has claimed since the closure of this facility, they have more problems with anti social behaviour amongst teenagers. The council were also responsible for moving the motor cross from the island. This was covered by sky sport and bought a huge amount of money to the island along with tourists. I have lived on the Island all my life and never thought I'd agree to a fixed link as have always been against the idea. BUT, with the unreliable ferries and astronomical prices, I think a fixed link will be the only thing that can save the island from becoming a place where no ones want to go. The Island is in need of re generation and moving on from the stale mindset of the older generation that is polluting the the younger generation so things will never change as it's always been done like that.. Change is needed and not in 10-20years... Now !!!! Allows un-moderated transport between mainland England and the island aside from the alotted time zones ran by the inplace ferries and completely eradicates isolation to not only residents but also businesses and companies that rely on mainland England aswell as the island. PAGE 251 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ferry prices have already made a huge impact on the island due to the loss of bestival. I think a fixed link would increase tourism and bring back some fun to the island. Good for island "A quicker cheaper alternative to the monopolised cross solent travel would create better tourist and business attraction. Whilst also encouraging people to work across the solent with out the extortionate costs and extra time added to the working day. This will not only positively effect the island but also the surrounding area of the other side." a road tunnel would not be detrimental to the scenery of the areas. it wouldn't interfere with the car ferry crossing or any other boats ie cowes week and round the island boat race, or even ocean going cruise ships. The cost of crossing the Solent at the moment severely hinders the island. It costs too much for tourists to come over, it costs too much to commute for work, it costs too much to get things shipped over, it keeps wages low because employers know that most people have no choice but stay on the island It will give the people of the island opportunity to create more sustainable businesses or easily and reliably commute to mainland quickly and at anytime. Strict planning regulations will have to be implied so as to not degrade the islands natural beauty which is integral to islanders lifestyle. Ferry to expensive... As I have/do study and work on the mainland, whilst being an island resident. I do understand the struggles of doing so. However we choose to live on an island for a reason, so in turn we can't overly moan about the transport methods on and off the island. I now live and work on the mainland by choice due to my work and living situation. I feel a fixed link would help people in a similar situation, however other needs such as education etc should be prioritised financially. Its all good for the island....there is a monopoly to get to the island and the island is dying It would bring lots of opportunities to young people, it would bring more business opportunities, it would bring lots of torrisum. I feel it will be better for people to access health care on the mainland and tourist it will also make it easier for islanders to leave and access the mainland which is not always simple "This Island has an incredible potential for tourism and the government should invest heavily in it for it to become THE place to visit for a holiday destination in the U.K. Even more so now we are leaving the EU. A fixed link can be the beginning of an economic gold mine if the government chooses to back it in the right way. We all judge a book by it's front cover and our front cover is currently an over priced and tedious ferry ride." The ferries are a rip off for residents.We have no option to travel to the mainland.young people can't go to nightclubs,college or work due to the poor service of ferries hitch finish far too early.If your train is delayed and you miss the last ferry you have to wait hours during the night till the early service starts. The fares are totally outrageous especially if your child goes to college on the mainland and you don't get any help or benefits. Held to ransom by ferry companies It can only be a good thing, it will pay for itself over maybe 2 years and it'll be amazing for the islands tourism sector! There are literally no disadvantages Ferry prices extortionate. Employment opportunities increased, particularly for young Island people, and also educationally they could commute for further education. If nothing is done, it will finally turn into a geriatric utopia. Ferry prices are astronomical, making travel too and from the Island limited. More tourism PAGE 252 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ferry costs are too high therefore I feel the island is losing out on the tourism it essentially needs and depends on The idea of a fix link would give us a cheap and quick way of getting off the island if we want to visit the mainland for shopping or seeing friends More job opportunities would be available within easier reach, more housing choices available, more events/activities/social things to do with easier access. To develop business and education opportunities on the island, also allows access to better health services A rail link to the mainland imho is the best option,we haven't got the space for the extra cars that a road link would bring,but we would benefit from a rail link from ryde St. John's to Portsmouth. We need one Quicker access to the mainland and would increase tourism and business. It's awful having to get a boat to go anywhere adding an extra hour onto your journey before you drive anywhere. better business links, better and cheaper transport to and from the Island. We need a fixed link in order to update this island, ferries are unreliable and slow I believe we are living in the dark ages if we believe the island can still prosper in the future without change! Because I think it will help the island in many ways regarding the subjects above. I know it's an island, but if you want the place to prosper you need to expand the capabilities of people having more freedom to either work away or those to visit.... Ferry is to expensive and travel to mainland take to much time We are being held to ransom by the privately run ferry services for a really tedious and boring crossing. A tunnel would be so much cheaper and cut the crossing time by 70% and we will no longer feel like prisoners on this wonderful island I feel the island would greatly benefit from a fixed link. It would inevitably bring with it a better business opportunity. Houses are being built but more jobs don't seem to be available. My children will be able to attend university and have the option to live at home as hopefully a shuttle bus will be available. Not least the fact that the ferries are subject to weather conditions and timetable, I have spent a lot of wasted time (and money) trying to simply get home, waiting in ferry terminals. The Isle of Wight is dying a slow death, something must be done to encourage development. The strangle hold imposed by a lack of fixed link needs to stop A fixed link would mean greater job opportunities for young people but enable them to still live on the island. More tourism means more jobs. More jobs leads to more business. More opportunities for those whom live on the island to improve lives. It would be easier to access the island all to access the main and as a member of public or as a business or delivery firms not having to wait for fairies that could be delayed due to weather better chance for Ireland just to get work further afield rather than being stuck on the island or having to rely on boats "It will improve island residents prospects in terms of employment and education. It will result in a better standard of living due to access to mainland facilities such as healthcare. It will give islander freedom of movement which some lack at present because of financial strains and increasing cost of ferry travel. The island needs tourism to improve in order to create jobs which has been lost because of the downturn of the islands popularity, caused by lack of funding resulting in many towns feeling run down. Cost, length and restricted times of ferry travel puts off weekenders and daytrippers from travelling across, a fixed link would bring more of this type of travellers increasing island revenue, allowing longer investment and much needed money to improve quality of life. " PAGE 253 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • i think it would bring more holiday makers to the isle creating more jobs "Opportunities for island residents: work, education, activities etc Massively more convenient to travel to and from island, saving lots of time and money each way No delays due to weather, technical issues, lack of staff etc Much less expense for companies to deliver to the island and therefore should give them more encouragement offer services to the island " "Lived here since I was small, but both my partner and myself have large families on the mainland. We visit them, and they visit us many times a year. The ferries are overpriced and clumsy to use on a regular basis. We also used to travel to Portsmouth to see live bands on a weekly basis, this is no longer practical without the late ferry to Ryde." The cost, reliability and convenience of ferries is unacceptable. A fixed link would be a much improved option Well i think the red funnell and wightlink have held us over a barrel long enough. The prices they charge is horrendous. Some times we can't even afford to go to the mainland. Put a tunnell in and a roll like Wales. Or make the ferrys drop the prices. I can't see them doing that. As Ferry travel is to expensive. More choice of jobs on the mainland and easier to get to by a fixed link I. E. Ferries get cancelled due to bad weather more freedom for islanders. The benefit of a fixed link is socially people could visit family on the mainland easier and quicker I should imagine. Faster more convenient acces to the mainland good for students, Islanders working on the mainland and movement of goods and services as well as onward travel. Because it is needed, the island is far to cut off currently and this would make things better for islanders going forward. cheaper for trade links to the mainland, cheaper transport to the mainland, good for tourism and small businesses The ferry prices just keep rising which is causing people to be unable to leave the island even under important circumstances and also because the island is dying there is nothing for children and young people to do at all How can it get any worse Would make life easier Cost of ferries, long journey time to mainland, travel restrictions, damage to tourism, lack of freedom, held to ransom by w and rf, healthcare difficulties, family and friends separation, No night travel causing unwanted and expensive overnight mainland stays and more eexpensive ferries, so many companies refuse to deliver here.....the list is endless. Making a fixed link will give access to mainland at a cheaper cost means more tourists and make it easier for islands to get to mainland There needs to be a cheaper and more efficient service to and from the Island...I've lived here 5 years and even worked for Red Funnel and it's a complete joke!! See above The island would be a lot easier accessible, and not so much waiting around and booking crossing. I feel that it would be a big positive for the island as the cost of travelling to the isle of wight is putting visitors off and they are choosing to go else where this is leading to businesses closing down. PAGE 254 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It is currently very difficult for islanders to gain access to the Mainland without having to pay a rediculous boat fare to get across the water , have a bridge/tunnel would widen the opportunities in so many ways , including job opportunities , education , tourism health care etc being cut off from the rest of the UK is only damaging to those who live on the island and without a fixed link this is never going to change It would be quicker and hopefully cheaper link between us and the mainland To slow young people from leaving forever The ferries are Distroying the island, and the island needs a more economical and affordable method for cross silent travel. If I take my family over as passengers it costs more than to take a car, how does that work out correct?! It would allow people from the IOW and mainland to travel more efficiently and quickly between the two locations, proving better for business, education, travel interests and tourism I think a Fixed Link is absolutely necessary for the Island's well-being. I can think of no obvious short or long term negatives of a FL and I think there has not been enough pressure to get this into action. As a younger resident, I feel many of the decisions made for the Island are made by older, out of touch individuals who refuse to accept the OBVIOUS positives a FL would give the Island. Crossing the Solent is very off putting to business, for example, as shown through Rob Da Bank moving Bestival elsewhere. I think it's such a shame that a FL hasn't been considered sooner mainly due to Islanders who feel it is unrealistic because it really isn't. The ferrys are expensive and the timetables are unhelpful. As a former student who had to commute from Winchester to the island for 4 years I found that most my time was spent waiting to board ferrys who's prices are so extorianate that I probably could have rented a property in Winchester for what it cost me to travel home every week! Main reason being the ferry prices!! Freedom of movement is important to grow business and tourism and for people like me to visit family and friends on the mainland. However care should be taken to ensure the crossing is manned to avoid too many undesirable people coming and staying in an area where we currently have better crime rates then most mainland cities The island is dying tourism and business wise. Will allow more affordable travel to and from the mainland It will help bring tourism to the island as well as making it cheaper for island residents to commute and get to the mainland. It would improve relations with the mainland Small businesses would thrive, tourism rise. The island is like a gated community so scared of change and worried of the mainland way of life, it will inject a positve putlook into the 21st century. Need something too change bring more jobs and health care too the island It will help bring a much needed boost to all aspects of the island Ferry is too expensive The free movement would be a good thing, for example fog suspends ferry activities. Harder to access hospital appointments in Southampton. Can all more job opportunities as less travel expenses. "Need to be looking to the future and benefits ti the Isk Land" I feel it would be better for the island to have a fixed link to the mainland in all aspects Getting to and from the mainland quicker and cheaper This will make accessing the island and the mainland a lot easier therefore meaning that people will travel both ways more often We now need a fixed link, we are losing the younger generations. It's a massive thing that island needs, thr island needs bringing up to date PAGE 255 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The cost of the car ferry to the Island reduces the number of visits we would make annually. A cheaper way of getting to the Island would, in my opinion, increase tourism and thus a knock on effect on business. May become easier to attract essential workers such as nurses and teachers. Be easier, cheaper, more trade for the Island More opportunity. Having spent 2tears traveling to Southampton for cancer treatment. A fixed would have made life much easier. "The island needs this fixed link - it's time to bring the Isle of Wight back to life. Tourism, Business and Islanders would all benefit hugely." the ferries, for too long, have taken us islanders for every penny they could whilst in return we have had to endure shoddy ferries, extortionate prices and unreliable time keeping. Might make ferry prices more reasonable, decreases amount of time, might get a higher proportion of younger people (and therefor more thriving business) on the island, may urge an increase in funding to the isle of wight due to higher accessibility The additional time/cost of travelling to the rest of England is undoubtedly a burden on island businesses and residents. Every difficult issue the island faces, from NHS service availability, to employment prospects, to education, is inextricably linked to the time/cost barriers to the rest of the country. Only a fixed road link, or a nationalised, cost-controlled water route, can address those challenges. Regularly travel to mainland- would be great to not have to rely on ferrys and be restricted by weather etc "Cheaper way to 'escape' Allows Island to possibly become more developed" Bad weather, cancelled ferries, poor timetable leaving you sat at the port for 2-3hrs until the next sailing, high prices The island is dying. Having a fixed link will open up opportunities for island residents, especially the younger generation. It will make businesses be able to trade more effectively. The list is endless I'm all for it. Infrastructure will improve, access to and from the Island will be unlimited and investment will come in. The only down side I can see is that the lack of a fixed link keeps the crime rates low. Freedom to travel to the next County in the UK in the same way as other UK residents do. Healthcare access and issues. It is important to encourage a flow of business to and from the island without constraint or exorbitant cost to the traveler to stop this island from dying beneath our feet. It is also vital to provide a better and more cost effective means of supporting patients from our hospital to mainland services and hospitals We need a more sustainable crossing option which people can use to better connect with mainland resources, and for which the island businesses will flourish. More tourism, more money into the island. Bring IOW to 21st century in line with rest of UK. It would bring prosperity and solve many social and economic problems on the island. Bring business and opportunities to the Island. Create jobs so our kids don't have to leave to get a good career. Easy communication is needed to allow the island to join the 21st century It would give people freedom to travel whenever they want and open more options in employment,education and healthcare Would attract business, allow easy access both to island and mainland. Improve job prospects and open up the island allowing exposure to opportunities & competition, closing down the monopolies of the ferry companies. Getting off the island easier and cheaper. More tourists more money for the island. We might actual not be left in the prehistoric era and actually be part of the 21st century PAGE 256 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "Cheaper travel Not tied to time restrictions Job opportunities More money coming on to island through investment and tourism " The island has little future without one Ferry prices are extortionate. Building a fixed link would massively improve the island's economy. All the social ills that were once claimed as mainland 'problems' are here. The idiocy of throwing litter from cats, the antisocial exhaust brigade, the blaring music, the staring at the phone ubiquity ~ there is nothing of the old politeness left to save. We are inundated with every city problem anyway so why not open it up for the financial benefits? obviously positive... the only way forward. Just a few examples out of so many: more tourism and people spending money, qualified people more likely to come and work on the island, people living on the island are less cut off from their families on the mainland... It's simple the ferries have got far, far worse in the 12 years I have been using them. Progress needs to happen and I believe a tunnel - or bridge tunnel is the only realistic turn up and cross option for the future of the Island. See Chesapeake bay crossing inspirational!!! The ferry companies are killing the island a fixed link would boost economy etc and many many other things and people wouldn't feel so trapped Anything that makes travel to the mainland easier has to be an improvement on what we have now It will be so beneficial for the island in many ways easy access to mainland especially when you need to get off the island quickly. It will benefit future generations to come and go to mainland for jobs. Boost tourism and businesses. The Islanders would benefit from increased employment, health and education options.The link would allow easier movement of not only goods but skills too. Hopefully encourage investment into our ailing Island. The ease of getting to and from the island for those who need hospital treatment or neee to work. Just think how many more tourist we would get if only it was cheaper to reach the island It would spread the traffic over 24 hours, allow for adverse weather conditions which currently can suspend operations and cause massive delays. Offer competition on prices. Reduce transport costs, allow people to commute easier and more cost effectively to seek employment. Huge benefits for business, employments and people requiring treatment for health issues only available on the mainland. Remove the feeling of being held to ransom by ferry monopolies. the island is slowly dying a death being strangled by the ferry fares and unreliable services and huge fares in comparison to others Reliable 24 hr access to and from the Island For the Island's future. Investing in our children's future. Something has got to change to keep the Island from becoming a very large care home. It would allow people to travel a lot more freely between the isle Of Wight and the mainland. People are really put off by the over priced ferries as well as the limited times of the ferries. If there is a fixed link then many more people would come to the island to visit which will then improve the economy and tourism. Also less people would move off the island as they would have better access to jobs on the mainland. The island is suffering masively from under investment in all areas and a lot of this can be traced back to the cost and lagistical problems in getting to and from the island . A fixed link might not fix everything but at least we would be on the right path for investment and true ease of movement for all locals and tourists alike. Ease of travel being the reason for so many factors!! PAGE 257 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Isle of Wight can no longer maintain a good standard of living. Education, Healthcare, business and our next generation are all suffering as a result. I cannot afford to move off the island but I would like to be able to get away once in a while but cannot afford the price the ferries charge. A fixed link would save the island whilst still keeping it as an island. Easier access to and from the island, better job opportunities and education facilities. More tourists due to the ease of travel and hopefully cheaper crossing fares! "Availability of jobs for islanders Reduced cost and time in travel for businesses " I'm tired of sitting in the Wightlink car park at Gunwarf on a Friday evening waiting for a late ferry. It seems from April to October from midday til 9pm most ferries are late. The island is in desperate need to compete with the mainland otherwise it will become a ghetto and a resting place for the elderly It would be good for the island in terms of job creation and accessability The wealth , investment and infrastructure is in sharp decline ,mainly due to the prohibitive nature and cost of the ferry links Better economic future for the Island The viability of the Island is reaching a tipping point and without creating an affordable , convenient , quick way to cross the Solent the ferry operators will continue to strangle the economic growth of the Island which is desperately needed to support essential services More chance for jobs for our children, not enough on the island. We'd have more tourism giving us much needed money. Easier to go to specialist hospitals when needed, if you're ill do you really need the hassle of the long walk into the ferries and waiting around. The fact that they get cancelled on the stop of a hat due to weather, mechanical problems and even staffing problems is not what we need. The Island us in desperate straits due to inability to travel cheaply to the mainland Improved travel to mainland hospitals. Will give people choice of when they can travel which will be quicker and cheaper. My daughters can come over to visit more often, improving all our wellbeing. My wife and I cannot easily travel to mainland by ourselves now as mobility and sight problems restrict us, the whole process is long and tiring. Young people will have a better chance of getting a better education, jobs and health care etc which will help stop the economy of the Island from further sliding into poverty. Both for business and mainland accessibility. Because of high cost of ferries plus of the times they can be cancelled due to weather conditions as answer 9 I have selected positive as I believe without a fixed link this Island will get worse with more poverty less job prospects and eventually we will be prisoners with horrendous costs to travel to the "big Island" which has a fixed link to Europe for economic reasons There are countless reasons, if a FL is again discounted the whole of the Island will continue to suffer every which way as it has been for far to long ! its time to breathe new life into this Island for all and every sensible reason to do so. "Because the current travel price structure, crossing frequency and reliability of the two main ferry companies who hold the travel monopoly at the moment is totally unacceptable and an alternative method of travel to and from the mainland can only be a positive factor for the Island; I would imagine that anyone voting negative to this question has either: Never been to the mainland, does not wish to go to the mainland, does not want people visiting the island, or work for red funnel or Wightlink. " The island is slowly dying and is in urgent need of growth and investment. "Would bring the choice of commuting to work to the mainland to within reach of more islanders which would help its economy by people having more money to spend locally. It PAGE 258 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • would mean more tourists to further boost the economy by making the island easier and quicker to get to and making it a lot more attractive financially for families without the ferry costs. Really it is a no brainer.....thee question should not be if, it should be when!" A fixed link will have a positive outcome for the future of the island and it's population. The island desperately NEEDS this to happen, it's not just the cost of ferries that is a problem it is the unreliability and inconvenience!! The ferries are keeping people apart. All my family love on the island and I can't visit as often as I would like because of the cost. I'm also going to inherit a property in (hopefully) a good few years and may return to where I was brought up. I would definitely consider living on the island again if there was a fixed link, but not if the ferries have the monopoly. "so we can come and go as we please,and not be held to ransom with ferry companies and their eratic prices aswell. The services are not reliable. Having family on the mainland, i go to the mainland a lot so a fixed link for me can't come to soon enough." I think that it would enable more people to live on the island and work on the mainland, give more opportunities for Higher Education to our young people and to improve our tourist industry and businesses. Modern infrastructure links are mandatory in a developing world. The current connectivity is the same as the 19th century. If the island is to develop this has to change. Mainland Employment & education choices need to be accessible and affordable to island residents. Ferry fares are out of hand and do not represent either a good service or value for money Not being held to ransome by the Ferry Companies of when we can go across and back to the mainland,and friends /families coming this way.NHS Services are getting worse here and more people will be treated in Soton/Pompey making treatment expensive and time consuming on mainland. As previously stated, the ferries are no longer supplying an efficient or reliable service, the cost of travel and limited timetable is effecting the Island to a point where healthcare is becoming dangerously effected. We need a fixed link to bring this Island back to a healthy economic status . I love the Island but am beginning to feel trapped due to the expense and inconvenience of the ferries compared to when I first moved here. I have to budget very carefully to go to the mainland and my grown up children and other family cannot afford to visit me as often as they would like. i have seen a great deterioration of businesses since I moved here 17 years ago which is not going to be solved just by having a fixed link but I'm sure it would help to take us back in the right direction. The island is suffering, poor standards of employment, education and healthcare. The Solent prohibits the island from prospering. Due to massively expensive ferries, and them being constantly unreliable due to breakdowns , weather etc. Islanders are held hostage due to a stretch of water! To not be tied to a timetable or to ferries that have constant delays andcancellations, Unrestricted access for tourism, business, social and leisure activities. Emergency services and for medical reasons. The economy would benefit with cheaper deliveries and commuting would be so much easier and cheaper. Moved here when I was 6, left at 19 and travelling back and forth for decades experienced the problems with connection, cost ...waiting.. Weather ..cancelled crossings due to fog, not making connections to airport due to weather in the 21st century is ridiculous. There are many many negatives that outweigh the positives.. Mainly TIME & COST and inconvenience I feel the Island is suffering terribly with cost of ferries & reliability of travel. I work for the NHS & have deep concerns for those who are sick & have to travel by ferries that are cancelled regularly or don't run for other reasons ie weather, mechanical issues. Plus tourism on the island has declined due to expensive ferry costs. The island is plummeting PAGE 259 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • downwards. I know many islanders see it as a negative but I feel as a person who was born on the mainland but has lived here almost 40 years this is now the only way forward to save the island & get it back on its feet. I want my freedom As a regular visitor to the island I am increasingly dismayed by the deterioration of services and the state of housing on the island.. There seems to be no opportunities for employment for all age groups and there would be no way I would consider setting up a business on island. The NHS services available are by all accounts dangerous. Most aspects of Island life are at a disadvantage without an easily accessed direct link to the mainland allowing us to be part of 21st century Britain Would increase business opportunities and employment. Help increase wages. Easier and quicker. More convenient. Ease of quickly moving from the mainland to the island, the increase revenues for business on the island being easily to access different devices from the mainland without the high cost and time of the ferry travel Island needs it because cost of ferries and the constant breakdown of ferries and shortness of staff cancelling ferries is abominable. It will bring the into the 21st century It is far too expensive to travel to the IOW at the moment. I would go regularly if there was a road tunnel. It just makes sense to have a link between the Island to the mainland. In this day and age this should be a no brainier. As would be the case with a tunnel between Portsmouth and Gosport the tunnel would turbocharge productivity in the solent region. At the moment a trip with car from Portsmouth to the IOW takes over an hour but would probably be 10mins in a tunnel the difference is wasted time in terms of productivity. You would find that people would have the freedom to work on the main land but live in IOW, bringing more money to the area. The only downside I could see would come from islanders not wanting to lose the quiet they currently enjoy but this can be mitigated with housing policy. Would greatly facilitate a much more flexible, convenient, & cheaper option for travel to & fro the mainland, would make transport costs much less for business'. At present some mainland retail business' Make an extra surcharge to send items to an Island address, or some will not undertake to send to Island address'. The positives for a fixed link, by far outweigh objections against it. the island need this link to prosper Because I think this is needful for 2017! This is something that in my opinion should have been under construction ten years ago People would travel more to and from the island if there was an alternative option other than the expensive ferry. I came back to the mainland as Island felt so behind in work, outlook, hospital and isolation. But I have all my family over there so am constantly visiting and would love a tunnel Crossing the Solent is a big cost; although I live on the Mainland, I have a Special-Needs daughter who commutes frequently across to the IOW to see her Mother, Because of the nature of the Disability we need to Travel by car. The prohibitive costs of the ferries is suppressing business on the Island and causing unemployment levels to be high and therefore having negative social effects. It will bring the island into the 21st century Time we had transport links suitable for this century. Best of both worlds - ferry for tourists enjoying nostalgia, bridge to encourage and enable islanders to work on the mainland, healthcare, visit family, without the hassle, expense and extra hours on journey time. If there's some reason you want to stay a bit longer on PAGE 260 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • the mainland you wouldn't have to pay more for the change of time, and no hanging around at ferry terminal for hours. The ferry service has been unreliable and is very costly. The Isle of Wight is currently so far behind in terms of schooling, economy, jobs, wages, job prospects for our youth, the list goes on. We need a 21st Century proper transport system, so access is far easier to get on and off the Island. The ferry companies have a stranglehold on us, and have extortionate fares, possibly the most expensive stretch of water in the world. We Islanders are not being listened to and we need a feasibility study to see what we want , and I truely believe its time for change otherwise the island will just get worse. You only have to look at our so called seaside towns such as Sandown it's completely run down, the island relies on it's tourist trade, who wants to come over here with high ferry prices and run down guest houses, the prospect doesn't look good..and things need to change sooner rather than later. Because the island needs a cheaper and much more flexible connection to attract the best people for public and private sector work, and equally to enable Islanders to seek work on the mainland on an affordable and more reliable basis Reduces the impact on consumers of current oligopolistic ferry pricing. Less dependence on ferries and timings Better healthcare, easier college/uni selection, better business opportunities - the list goes on "Would fetch more employment to the island, enable family visits more frequently as ferries are so expensive. Allow more freedom for education,and for shorter visits either direction,for leisure or employment. A tunnel with train links would be fantastic." I believe the island will die economically with no fixed link, leaving future generations without the infrastructure to prosper It would prevent the Isle of Wight being cut off from the mainland. We would be able to obtain vital resources for islanders especially healthcare and would boost an ailing economy. The Island needs another form of providing travel to and from the Island. It is held to ransom by the ferry companies who are only interested in running a profitable business. Why do they have to run their crossing like an airline where you have to pay more at different times etc etc. It should be a flat rate whenever you go. Still the same ship,crew using the same fuel. This whole idea of crime increasing is just a reason to try and stop a fixed link idea. There is enough criminal activity already on the Island. I have lived on the island since 1975 coming from the mainland and used to spend many a happy holiday when I was a child coming to the Island. It has sadly gone slowly down hill to the sad state it is in now with many businesses and shops closing down. With a fixed link this would open up the Island to hopefully more businesses opening up and not having the restriction of having to use the ferries. Tourism would also hopefully flourish with it being that much easier to come to the Island. Investment for the future To the mainland, The IW prosperity depends on unrestricted access to the mainland, free from weather constraints As an island born person living on the mainland with many relatives on the island it is too costly and difficult to keep in touch. I also see my neices and nephews struggling for employment on the Island at the same time as my young relatives in hampshire are inundated with job alternatives. The Island economy cannot go on forever holding back opportunities for the young. An easier and less costly commute would open up a new world of opportunities for the young and businesses We need to improve our local economy. The current situation is having a long term detrimental effect on the economy and social situation of the iow The ferries are far too expensive, the Island needs tourists. PAGE 261 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I do not think the Island will survive unless a tunnel or bridge is built. I have spoken to quite a few young people who would love to live on the Island and commute to the mainland. Consistently they have expressed a view that an alternative crossing is essential. It should make visiting family on the mainland easier and vice versa, provided not too expensive. It will bring development, investment and jobs to the island Competition for the ferries There are not a lot of job opportunities for young people on the island and this would present job opportunities on the mainland without the exorbitant ferry costs and without the young people having to relocate permanently. The ferry companies, who have had it their own way for far too long, would have to make their fares more competitive. At present the island fails to attract the correct high level workers and nurses/teachers due to the time and cost incurred by using the ferries. With an increasing elderly population and a decreasing number of working age people (who actually work!) there are just not enough people to sustain the population demographics. For many years I thought it was a negative to protect island roads from heavy traffic but that no longer seems to be the case so having a fixed link would appear to be a positive to offset the ransom we haveto pay to the ferry companies and would produce a constant and garanteed link with the mainland. We are losing too many facilities e.g ice rink, Bestival because we are too cute off The Island is dying and needs a fixed link for business, tourism and healthcare. The Island needs to move forward. The youngsters need the opportunity to work either here or on the mainland. Business opportunities need to be improved and we need professionals (education, healthcare) to be willing to work here. "As an ice skating coach I had to commute to the mainland since the ice rink closed in October 2016. We had no other options as no ice rink on the island means no income for me. I frequently took the 4am ferry on Sundays mornings. This ferry journey added over 3 hours to my journey. Wightlink is expensive and very often late. If you miss a certain ferry then there can be very long waits on the mainland. A fixed link would stop all these delays and hopefully be cheaper!! Even a £20 return would seem cheap compared to the ferry prices! A ficed link would improve tourism and bring more money to our island as much easily accessible for day trips/weekend breaks." You really need to look at the bigger picture, the knock on effect would out weigh the negative by far. there are more positive than negative. life would become more open instead of being so insular. opportunities would be countless, employment, education, health and to be able to go and see places and people without being subjected to ferries prices and times who virtually govern when we can leave the island. we may leave in our thousands to the mainland but I am sure thousands would visit and boost our tourism trade hence catch 22 more work, more income, better living standards, less benefit claims, less crime, you will still be camera shot getting on and off the island, so big bro will know where you are. The ability to turn up 24/7 would be invaluable to improve every aspect of life and living on the Isle of Wight. Clearly the ferry companies (Wightlink in particular) are only interested in maximising profits and have no interest in making life better for Island residents. Wightlink's plans for the Fishbourne/Portsmouth route will clearly result in less frequent sailings as there will only be two ferries on the route capable of double ramp loading Reinvigorating a wonderful place which has become a relic with little hope for young people. Turned into a theme park Inward investment into an employment blackspot PAGE 262 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Improve opportunities for IoW residents in terms of employment, education and healthcare. Especially when the local hospital is made into a dementia centre, as is planned by the chief exec team The island economy is limited by ferry companies and the money raised from ticket sales dies not contribute to the island The cost and time involved in getting to the mainland limits job opportunities and is off putting for visitors. The fixed link would open opportunities for Islanders in both work and education, health care and business. It would also benefit tourism. Another alternate route available anytime Hardly leave the island as it's too expensive. Want children to go to uni and not have to leave home. Because of high prices and infrequent sailings, the ferries are killing the island and turning it in to a retirement village. I have a young family. We have exhausted everything on offer on the Island. Also I studied in Bournemouth and most of my student loan went on traveling. The freedom for the next generation would be wonderful. Time and cost, job access, manufacturing and skills. I live and work on the mainland but want to move back To the Isle of Wight. Yet with high ferry fees and unreliability it's not possible. Ferry Companies are far too expensive and time consuming. Fixed link would facilitate easy crossing to the mainland. Hopefully cheaper without the vastly inflated prices at peak demand times. Ferry prices are incredibly expensive which deters tourists from coming to the Isle of Wight in favour or other mainland coastal towns. tourisim is very important for the island economy and many businesses rely on this sector which desperately needs to see an increase in tourist numbers. Eliminating the need for a ferry (and their extortionate ticket prices) would be a huge boost. We will finally be able to see our families whenever we like. Not be subject to the abhorrent ferry service that cancels or delays their service all the time, or increase their already ridiculous fairs. A fixed link would have allowed my to stay on the island and commute to work. But as a first class graduate, opportunities were few and fat between on the island, and now the mainland has another welcomed, educated worker to add to their artillery, something the island lacks. Quick and easy travel to the mainland and for hospitals Long overdue - Look to the benefits it has brought the Isle of Skye and we have a bigger population and are a more important holiday destination. Our youngsters deserve to have access & the mobility to better job opportunities. It would probably be the simplest to operate, be environmentally friendly and enhance the economic status of the IW both in terms of business and tourism. Being in the elderly category I also foresee the day when all but the simplest of surgery is carried out in St Mary's Hospital. Sooner or later it will become an isolated outpost of the NHS and without a fixed link we are doomed! There is no future without one Because it will make access quicker, cheaper and safer. Therefore adding to the prosperity of the island in the future modern world. "as long as the tunnel would moniter the types of people getting to the island and local business effects , with mainland competitors" Makes things easier and quicker and personally I find travel on a ferry pretty antiquated and way way to time consuming The limitations of the ferry services literally strangle the Island in terms of business, health services, education, tourism and social communication. The monopolistic ferry services hold the Island residents and services to ransom. PAGE 263 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It can only be a good thing to have a fixed link. The ferry companies hold Islanders to ransom with their high prices and poor service. The ferries are a 19th century solution to a 21st century problem. No change will just see the IOW degenerate further and quickly. Cheaper and easier to travel on and off the island, could bring more tourist money and opportunities to the island Allows IOW residents the same freedoms and opportunities as mainland residents. Employment, more business would set up and people have more freedom to find work off island. Healthcare as the journey to mainland hospitals would be shorter, house prices would increase as it would not be so costly to commute opening the island to being more desirable for living. Enable residents and others to move mire freely across the silent. Saving time and money and reducing current restrictions imposed by ferry companies timetables and weather etc. "It can only be a positive thing. There is no, sound, logical reason why we should not have a fixed link. Other than people don't like it. Which just isn't a good enough reason. Without it we have a stagnant job market and an every growing rate of unemployed people. This Island needs investment, it needs opportunities and it needs to be brought in line with the modern world. Otherwise we are going to end up with an unemployment rate that will cripple our economy and in turn, will raise crime rates to unprecedented levels." Because the island is in urgent need of change! We need external influences to change the inward mentality of the islanders, that is turning the island onto a place for the elderly only, with businesses going down hill I think it will help bring the isle of wight back to its best. at the moment it is falling apart and the huge brain drain of people moving to the mainland with their skills etc. Also our hospital is struggling to attract staff which for a retirement island is never a good thing! There are a thousand reasons but access without restriction is big for me and job security but even if my job ever goes at least I can stay here rather than having to move off. As a responsible parent I must think of my children's future. I will be moving from the island and taking my small business with me if a tunnel is not underway by the time my eldest graduates University. I want my children to have easy access to their futures. Without a fixed link the island has no future. "It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change" Charles Darwin. We need to compete with other tourist areas. Bournemouth for one (only 20 mins down the road from Lymington) We need access to specialist healthcare and not be denied it through cost. I need to see my kids please. There is a lack of work on the island. If better transport links are not provided it will become an Island of benefit and pension payments. As we cannot have 'island' status (thanks again Mr Turner) it is vital that islanders get the opportunities to work and prosper...a fixed link will enable this. I do not believe social problems would increase. Students could travel easier (NO 6th forms here too anymore) better for businesses. Encourage more tourism...must be cost effective compared to ferries obviously. Hospital treatment would be made easier/accessible/ cheaper. I cannot think of any negatives that outweigh the positives. The island needs to get into the 21st century and quick!! Making the Island more accessible would be a solution to a myriad of problems. From difficulties in attracting GPs, teachers and nurses to the unavailability of low skilled work opportunities. It could provide a large boost to tourism, and could stop monopoly holding ferry companies holding islander's to ransom. The present ferry services and prices of them are extortionate and also their reliability is very poor, also problems for the many patients who have to travel to the mainland for hospital procedures and appointments PAGE 264 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • just being able to get to mainland quickly and cheaply, no worry about missing a ferry or being stranded The Island is dying a slow painful death. The youth either leave or rot. It's a beautiful Island and should be so prosperous considering how close it is to London. The island totally depends on people getting on and off. Get the crossing right and all other problems are sorted Access to work/health/social I have answered positive as it will give everyone more opportunities with an easy access to the mainland I answered positive so the young people here will have more opportunities to better their careers with easy access to the mainland. Whilst I travel once or twice off island each month, the inconvenience and delays significantly reduce the numbers of crossings I make. Instant access for a lower price would create much more income than ferries receive. Duplication of healthcare provision either side of the Solent could be significantly reduced creating vast NHS savings. In order to stop the island 'dying', a fixed link is necessary to encourage businesses, medical staff and teachers to come to the island to work and to live. A fixed link would enable young people to remain living on the island whilst being able to get to universties and to get good jobs on the mainland. It would also encourage daily visitors as well as those wishing to visit for longer. Also it would mean that companies wishing to deliver goods to the island would not have to charge extra to include the ferry crossing. A tunnel would be positive, both for access and for the opportunities for business. Young people have limited employment opportunities on the Island, which causes a very apathetic approach to their education. I think it is hard to motivate learning when the best employment many face is seasonal work cleaning caravans. Because at the present time the tunneling machines used on the London Cross Rail project are no longer required so now it would be ideal to put them to this use. Tourism will be through the roof if there was a fixed tunnel and it'd be better/cheaper for travelling to and from the mainland The cost and difficulty in leaving or coming to the Isle of Wight on the existing ferries is stifling the prosperity of the island and the people who live and work here. The Isle of Wight is being left behind the rest of the south because of this antiquated transport method. I feel it's time to investigate the genuine feasibility of new options for linking the island to the mainland. without a fixed link the island will die, costs rise, work get harder to find ,and the young will suffer the most and as already happening the old will find it harder to se a doctor when we need one. You cant stop change ,nothing stays, the same for ever, so embrace the changes and plan for the future. I have had most of my life but the young generation must keep up with the times to have a chance and make a better life for themselves Employment accessibility A fixed link would make it easier for islanders to access vital health care not available at St Marys Hospital air ambulance helicopters can't fly in thick fog or high winds. It would open up access to employment opportunities for islanders and to make it easier to recruit people to vital services (e.g. NHS, schools). Easier and cheaper for islanders to access HE education and training opportunities. Easier for businesses to get products to their markets and to bring over the materials they require more cheaply. Ability to travel at any time of the year e.g. to be able to visit family and friends on the IW or the mainland on Christmas day. Ability to travel to or from the IW spontaneously, without having to plan and book in advance. "Ferry companies monopoly and not serving its customers. It time for a fixed link to save the island it is trapped and social deprivation is rip. " Fed up with the ferry companies service PAGE 265 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Island needs a reliable safe link that is available at all times. This will benefit all aspects of Island life. It will increase business investment and help to provide an economic future for the Island, which at the moment is missing. A road tunnel won't be an eyesore and would probably be easier to construct than an actual bridge! The flow of traffic would be kept constant! Progress we are stuck with a transport system that is slow and unreliable Cost of ferries is outrageous. Feel too isolated having to rely on them. It would make work and business more accessable and would give young people a more positive attitude towards the Island "I came to the island to take up a job with Stainless Games, I used to live in Bath. My wife's parents live in Devon and visiting them from Bath was simple. Now visits back home are so much more awkward here than ever before. My kids don't get to see their grandparents as often and the only reason in the expensive and difficult to cross tiny stretch of water. I cannot be the only person in this situation! Stainless Games as a company has lost many talented people over the years because they wanted to work in the games industry but living on the island was too high a cost, financially and socially. I doubt Stainless is the only company on the island suffering in such a way." Come and go as I please I feel that the island is decaying, seaside towns are falling into disrepair and the cost of travelling across the solent is more than flying to Europe. As a resident, travelling off the island is expensive, unreliable and slow so I get to see friends and family who don't live on the island less often then I'd like to. I think it is needed I believe that a link would be positive for the residents on th IOW in order to access the mainland more freely for education, work, healthcare plus many more factors. Unreliable ferry crossings, very expensive and waste of time We need a fixed link for the island and for the people on the island to survive! Because I don't use ferries so if there was a tunnel I would go there. The Island is a deprived area which will only benefit from a fixed link. The standard of living will increase, the job opportunities will widen and tourism and businesses will thrive. I cannot see it as anything other than a positive thing for the Island and it's residents. The island is rapidly going down the drain, buisness closing down,a hospital that's behind the times , very little for people to do and what there is , is expensive, no nightclubs , the list goes on ,,, people need to be able to get on and off the island when they want without being held hostage by the ferry firms hiking up prices when they want, ie Cowes week, festival etc . Cheap and easy access on and off the island is a must for the future of the IoW. A fixed link is vital if the island is to retain prosperous families who have the ability to contribute to the local economy. Access to healthcare is a vital aspect of mainland travel that should be a top consideration. How much quicker and easier would it be to get to and from the island especially in times of urgency which is becoming more frequent with a lots of the nhs services for example taken away from the island I am concerned about Island healthcare as more and more patients are being sent to mainland for treatment. This not only causes problems logistically for friends & family who have to rely on ferries which do not always run to schedule and cause constraints on visiting because of the financial impact of the high ferry prices. The Island is struggling to attract Proffessionals to work here because of our poor education record and also our youngsters do not return after university as no jobs for them. If there were a FL then they would be able to commute easily. On a purely selfish level I travel to the Mainland weekly PAGE 266 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • to visit my daughter and baby grandson. The ferry's restrict the time I get to spend with them because you are tied to their timetable and because you have to book you are not free to come and go as you please. The cost is also a big factor. I think it is time that we as Islanders are able to travel whenever we want the same as everyone else in the UK and not be reliant on the ferry companies who can control us coming and going. increase in access to island meaning cheaper costs for business and more people could visit increasing trade to island, my self would visit a few times a year but ferry cost stops me The lack of efficient transport is hindering progress and opportunities for islanders in several ways. Something desperately needs to be done to stop the island being dictated by the abominable ferry companies, that have the monopoly on how the Isle of Wight is run. By having a fixed link, this will enable people to come and go when THEY choose to, not when they have to. A modern, well functioning economy needs a modern well functioning transport service to survive and flourish. I'd also like to get back home to see my family more. I think it can only be a good thing for the island . It will bring more money to the island which is very much needed Flexibility of not having to wait on ferries, especially as they feel it's acceptable to keep cutting their services. I would pay more to use a tunnel at my convenience then using the ferry. Access to wider health care. The cost of travel to the mainland means that young people move over there for work. Doctors and teachers do not want to work in such a cut off environment. "To increase work/ job opportunities for islanders. To improve transport services that are more realiable and less expensive. Also to not have to constantly wait for a ferry or pre book which is time consuming and restricting. To increase more options for further education by being able to travel more freely to the mainland. " Greater prosperity. More attractive to professionals - medical and educational- and to tourists. The economy of the Island is dying without it. I would consider a bridge the best option, but a tunnel would be a satisfactory alternative "The fixed link is required urgently people are unable to rely on the ferry companies services are extremely expensive and unreliable crossings are always being cancelled. " It would stop islanders having to keep on paying ever increasing ferry charges.Also it would help business and jobs and the island would thrive. Future generations need to be able to work and prosper without the need to travel by ferry. "Easy access to and from the island for work, hospitals, tourists etc, a tunnel or bridge could have a toll of five pounds for example and that in turn over years pay for its self and maintenance eg Humber bridge,Tamara bridge etc. " Positive impact on Island transport and economy.Visitors and residents alike will benefit. Positive impact on the prosperity of the island which will encourage greater investment and economic growth a fixed link is probably the only option that would make a difference to the Island GDP/economy and the knock on positive effect on education and NHS It would bring wealth and prosperity to the island, jobs and freedom. I believe the Island will continue to decline as it has over the last few years without a fixed link of some form. More tourism easier commuting easier and cheaper for business and social travelling PAGE 267 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • much easier and quicker getting to and fro to the mainland especially for jobs and hospital appointments which would mean no cancelled ferry sailing times and reduced sailings at xmas time . Positive: Cost/Businesses coming to the island/Healthcare access/Islanders able to commute to work without ferry costs which are too high/Tourism cheaper access to Islan/ Cleaner way of traveling The Isle is in dire need of inward investment to revive business and, consequently, employment prospects for all. A Fixed Link will hasten that. Having worked in Norway and seen the benefit to trade fixed tunnels can provide and coupled with the fact it had no effect to the residents communities; I see this a positively proposed project. A fixed link would enable our young people to look for work in Southampton/Portsmouth areas and perhaps beyond much easier and allow them to still live here which would balance out the elderly/young ratio which is a problem at the moment.. It would increase opportunities for young people (studying etc), workers and those seeking health treatment. Also business and tourism would undoubtedly benefit. I also would love to come home and visit I.W family more, but the cost and time is prohibitive. A steady flow of traffic to and from at all times instead of sudden congestion around ports would be better, easily regulated by the police if needed and would give islanders freedom to work, trade and seek healthcare on the island without difficulties with ferry times. Totally dependant on the ferry companies who don't do the island any favours at - terrible if you are I'll, for visiting family and visitors, for business - lovely to be on a boat to get here - the idea is lovely but practically it's strangling the islands growth - would love to see water turbines harnessing the tide to make electricity incorporated in the structure. The island is suffering form lack of prosperity all year round, young people are suffering and there is a lack jobs and oppertunities for people who live here The ferry companies in my opinion are a duopoly which together are making it too expensive to access the island and as we have to work to a time table currently is in no ones interest. A bridge or tunnel would open up the island to investment and oppertunity and would restrict the time table restrictions. As above- the island is currently deprived and would benefit from a fixed link. Easier for social and business developments, cheaper and quicker links. Will promote more tourism. No reason I would be happy with a bridge or a tunnel Islanders need the guarantee of been able to get to the mainland at whatever time of day & not have the stress of maybe missing a ferry on their return. They would be able to take jobs in the south of England. More visitors would be able to come over, which would be good for so many businesses. It would be a two-way wonderful opportunity. Without a fixed link the Island will continue to decline in education and business and the young will have fewer and fewer opportunities for serious employment here. A fixed link will open new avenues of job options by making the mainland accessible for daily commuters; and there will be a greater chance of attracting high calibre teachers and business people to work here and who do not wish to buy a house here. To make access for better employment and business also health choices. Opens up the IOW to immense business and tourism opportunities, no more being held to ransom by ferries It would improve business opportunities for the island and encourage the younger generation to obtain better skills and eduction more freely, and to bring that knowledge back to the island, therefore improving the islands economy. Also to be so limited by the constraints of time and cost by the ferry companies is not benificial for the island and island people in anyway! "I believe we ignore this at our peril. Each generation that passes is becoming less tolerant of the poor transport links. Our average resident age will increase, incentives for PAGE 268 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • quality employers will decrease. I am a business owner and employer, I mix with other similar people. Many of us have had enough and are thinking of looking to the mainland for our future. I write this after yet another frantic dash down the motorway desperate to get home and terrified of yet another 3 hour wait in the dark for a ferry. " See above. "I believe we ignore this at our peril. Each generation that passes is becoming less tolerant of the poor transport links. Our average resident age will increase, incentives for quality employers will decrease. I am a business owner and employer, I mix with other similar people. Many of us have had enough and are thinking of looking to the mainland for our future. I write this after yet another frantic dash down the motorway desperate to get home and terrified of yet another 3 hour wait in the dark for a ferry. " Ease of travel ,be able to travel 24 hrs a day ,connected to the mainland More fluid transport to and from the island will bring benefits to all aspects of Island life The IOW is declining as the ferry companies are holding IW residents and visitors to ransom. This would improve investment in the Island. Better prospects for young people who would have the opportunity to find better work opportunities on the mainland and remain living on the Island while simply commuting via a tunnel. Cheaper cost for Island residents, ferries far too expensive. The economic viability of the Island is strongly related to the strength of its connection to the mainland. cost of ferries .no holdups ,better access .investsment for industries, no delays .no more cancellations ,cost should be the same as 1 day or 10 days ,fare increases in festivals .school holidays ,WHY should it, in bad weather ferries stop running .ferry companies only sail when there a profit .ferries should belong to the people .no more ferry cancellations.,no more fires on board ,quicker to get to mainland ,I CAN GO ON AND ON .Andrew Turner wont listen to me .WHY Getting older and recent health issues requiring lots of travel to mainland which for everyone is going to increase It is time that residents, visitors and commercial traffic could travel at any time of day or night and in any weather conditions. "Because it would benefit island youngsters, opening up oppurtunities for them, and would allow the island to tempt the 'brightest & the best' in their particular field to come here to settle & work. It cannot thrive just being a place frequented by retirees! " Opportunities for buisines development with corresponding job opportunites for the young of our population - we need to keep young brains and skills on the island A fixed link would rejuvinate the IW - currently the IW is in decline from a business/infrastructure perspective. We are held to ransome by the ferry companies that are unreliable/exhorbitantly expensive and seemingly untouchable. We are behoven to the weather and umpteen cancellations/delays. The powers that be need to wake up and accept that change is inevitable for a better future for the Island and it's people. At the moment the IOW has a weak economy and things are getting progressively worse. "a rail link would be positive for tourism, as well as for islanders travelling to the mainland to work, a reliable link not subject to the vagaries of the weather and good transport links on the island will surly boost business investment on the island. " "It will open the way for islanders to have a greater choice of employment. It will allow our young people who have been through higher education to return home to live but work across the water. It will make recruitment of doctors, teachers and other professionals easier as they will be able to keep close contact with their mainland families and PAGE 269 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • professional colleagues through conferences and seminars and still be able to return home the same day without hotel stays and all the additional expense that occurs while away from home. It will allow families to visit more easily and mainland hospital appointments less traumatic. A fixed link now is essential. Times have changed and the island must have easier access to the mainland. The ferries could still be kept as an option but as the sole access to the mainland they are now out-dated. Skye has a bridge and ferries, why can't we have the same? Scandinavia has a massive link between countries: bridge, tunnel and roads on the islands I believe. UK is so behind the times and this lack of ease of travel will be very bad for the island in times to come." Islands business and economy is dying. The best of the younger generation are leaving island through necessity leaving a high number of unemployed youngsters here. Social problems on increase and contrary to popular island believe drug issues have been increasing for decades. Relying on tourism is not the future plus attractions are outsmarted, tatty, expensive. The amount of money needed to commute for work us just plain ridiculous. Businesses would come here more often if cheaper to transport goods. The island is socially and economically dying at present. The Island is dying It would be so much easier to be able to travel whenever I want to. It would work whatever the weather; it would be cheaper and quicker than ferries. It would also realistically open mainland jobs markets to islanders. There needs to be more competition to make the cost of crossings more reasonable and a quicker option than the ferry would benefit the commuter, relatives visiting elderly parents and emergency services. Again a bridge should be considered as well. Anyone I talk to on the mainland or the island say yes immediately. The parking at ferry terminals is another huge cost. "It is a matter of commonsense that in this day and age a tunnel is now essential to for the survival of this island. " It should bring down the cost of travelling to the island which should help with tourism and so help the island economy. It will also help with people needing to attend the mainland for hospital appointments. Instant access to the mainland will be beneficial all round instead of having to possibly wait 90 minutes due to just missing one ferry on a Winter timetable. To open up opportunities for island residents with travel, education and work "Personally I returned from an event in Bristol this week. I missed the ferry by a matter of seconds (it was still docked and the ramps down and gates open but they wouldn't let us board). So we had to wait an hour and a half for the next boat, which then took an hour and a half to cross because of ""traffic in the solent""! If we'd had a fixed link, on this occasion I probably would have been home nearly three hours earlier. With a wider perspective, I'm sure tourism and the Island's economy would benefit from a faster, cheaper alternative to current crossing methods. Our high streets seem to be dying, and there doesn't seem to be much in the way of work. I think making commuting to the mainland more feasible would encourage people to move/remain here, which would hopefully then regenerate our towns with increased commerce. " A more fluid and convenient way of traveling. Hopefully a more affordable way to get off and on the IOW Improved transportation links can only be positive It will make the island more accessible to jobs, tourism and support economy Too expensive using ferries which has a considerable detrimental effect on a lot of residents. Because it will be helpful PAGE 270 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "It would improve lives for islanders by giving us easier and affordable access to different Hospitals and open the chance of finding work etc . The island suffers with the cost of the ferries, and tourism in to. I think a study will let us have a choice. If it's not feesable then we know the answer to that option. We need to move with the times and bring the island up to date." The failure of a fixed link places the health of island residence at risk and hinders the employment and retension of good teachers. Individuals spend a lot of money on travel to get to and from the island when in education and being employed on the island. And I don't see how that is fair when they may not have any other choice without a fixed link the economy on the Island will continue to decline. since the sixties the holiday trade has almost gone, the At the moment we residents of the island are held to ransom by greedy profiteering ferry companies and it would be nice to come and go when I want to and not have to wait until it's convenient for a ferry company to take me. The Isle of Wight will always be a 'backwater', with a very poor economy, with all the accompanying attributes that run alongside this scenario. With a growing & ageing population, this situation will just continue to get worse over the next 30 years. It will become more of a burden to the government as time moves forward. Although I am very concerned about potential traffic management problems, the I.O.W needs a kick into the 21st century. The only way to do this is to provide a fixed link, subsidised by the government. Its simple this allows the Island to develop,and leave something for the next generation. I have experience of travel in Holland both through tunnels and on bridges and am of the belief we on the Island would benefit greatly from a fixed link with the mainland as it could be a lifeline for us in so many ways. Anything that would increase Tourism and better well paid job prospects MUST be considered as positive, there is a very good pool of educated and skilled labour on the island but there are very few well paid jobs for those people to take up so it is no surprise that those same people have to travel to the Mainland to find a good job I think businesses would thrive due to more people being able to easily access the island. Hospital access. Recruitment of professionals: teachers and medics. Encourage business prospects. Ready access to good shopping facilities. Bring desperately needed wealth to the island. There are too many to list as positives, but the system and ways of getting on and off of the island really need to be looked into for future generations. See 9 It is imperative that Island based personnel and services are not restricted to either the weather, timetables and un-capped transport charges, to freely move about the UK and beyond. "Crossing the Solent would be possible 24/7 (that is any time of day any day of the week). It should be possible to reduce cost of Solent crossing leading to better services for Isle of Wight residents in most areas of their lives." The ferry services have never been as fragile as they now are, and the Island has to move into the 21st century with its mainland infrastructure link. Ferry timetable is inflexible, where a fixed link means mobility when required. The benefits vastly outweigh the negatives. A 'time warp' mentality, people who want the island to stay as it is, is driving away our young people and stifling work and education and travel. We need more choice and flexibility in how easily and cost effectively we travel on and off the island. We should not be frightened of having more choice. "Ferrys would not be able to hold us to ransom on prices. " PAGE 271 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • any alternative to ferries is good news Its vital to arrest the economic decline of the Island assuming the travel cost via the tunnel would be less than the Ferries and more flexible regarding times and volume of traffic Being able to get off/on the island in an emergency and without it costing a fortune. The prospect of a fixed link would in my opinion benefit the employment, education , health and social well being of the younger generation on the island as this proposal would be more beneficial for them. The island will go bankrupt. The island needs to have better links to the mainland For freedom of movement, for the younger generations education and employment to allow them to travel but still live on our Island. The Island is dying in so many ways, health services, effective staff for the council, schools, hospital and social services. Ferry costs and disruptions seem worse. Freedom to travel when we want, rather than being restricted by ferry timetables. Also, weather conditions would not be such a factor. A fixed link will provide easier access to and from the island. Working in education recruitment, retention of good quality teachers is extremely hard due to the cost and time of the commute meaning education on the island is extremely poor with the island being one of the lowest performing boroughs in England. I myself commute regularly and the timetables and costs does not provide easy access and unfortunately am thinking of moving across to the mainland because of this. Having a fixed link will mean that I will no longer have to suffer waiting for hours for a boat due to the timetable, weather or technical difficulties A fixed link would increase prosperity and relieve the social deprivation the island currently experiences. I feel the Isle needs to increase tourism and business and easy access and less reliance on ferries would help everyone and increase opportunities to reduce unemployment and improve education I fixed link will help the economy of the Island. Open up job prospects, encourage working families to live here, encourage much needed doctors and teachers to live here. It will keep the housing market buoyant. Encourage and increase visitor volumes, Give flexibility to leave and arrive 24/7 and it would mean I'd never have to use the ghastly service provided by Wightlink ever again. Far more freedom to travel when you want to and not add on extra time to your journey just to get to ferry and then cross Solent. No disruptions from ferry services, such as cancellations and adverse weather. The Island is dead and dying. We need a fixed link to breath some life into this Island and stop the ferry companies raking it in for a poor service. Boost jobs, tourism etc. and improve health facilities See comments at Q9 above The island is dying! there is little employment and the young must leave to have any future at all. The cost of not having a fixed link effect everything. Education is very poor and wont change without recruiting teachers from off island which currently the time and cost of travel is prohibitive. Anyone having to travel to the mainland for medical attention knows how tiring and costly it is. Businesses wont come or stay here because of the travel, time and difficulty in recruiting staff for their needs. "It must surely be a positive thing to have good connection betweenthe mainland and the Island, that isn't cost restrictive, time restrictive or constantly being disrupted by bad weather, low tides and staff illnesses. The fixed link tunnel would bring more tourism to the Island, as well as helping boost the economy due to businesses that can help the Island too when they aren't being held to ransom by the ferry companies." PAGE 272 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A tunnel wont ruin the island. It will make it more attractive and encourage people not just to live in Cowes, East Cowes & Ryde for ferry connections. It will never happen in my lifetime though! I grew up on the Isle of Wight but visit rarely due to ferry cost being elevated above a reasonable amount as a now mainline resident we are offered no deals to visit and was declined use of vouchers in the summer due to them being island side use only in small print The cost of ferry travel puts people off going to the island. I will be travelling to the island twice in July and on both occasions it has cost me £110 on the ferry. As a former resident of the island I found it was difficult at the best of times to do anything on the mainland as you are always relying on ferry times. Good luck! The ferries are now so expensive that family can no longer afford to visit unless I help out, the time will come when I cannot do this. It would make it possible to attend evening meetings in London and would facilitate international travel from the island. It would make it possible for more cultural activities to come from the mainalnd "Like it or not, NHS is suffering, cuts need to be made and will be made. Fixed link will help us. The cuts will come! I wouldnt be able to afford ferry travel and dont want to line to pockets of investment bankers on the fact of my ill health. Also, it would open up more job possibilities and then that would mean island employers paying a mainland wage to keep its employee's here on the island! " "Costs, convenience, time improvements of travelling tunnel. Increase in prosperity for the island Bring the Island economically into line with the rest of the SE. " "As I said above, we need to consider our future. A tunnel would undoubtedly bring benefits and quite possibly some unwanted consequences, but the consequences of not having a tunnel could be severe too. We need to be able to balance these, rather than simply reacting to the idea of having a tunnel. It's a business decision, and a decision about our future prosperity and viability." Improvement of economy, business and tourism for the island. A fixed link road tunnel would provide fast and unrestricted travel for all Island residents and our visitors. Especially important socially, economically and for better access to specialist health care. An end to the monopoly of ferry operators. A fixed link is long overdue. Our ferry system is antiquated in this modern world and our Island's economy is dying before our eyes. The ferry companies have been allowed to cut services and yet hike prices... and our MP has done nothing about it! Delivery of goods ordered from the Mainland is hit and miss. Some firms delivering, some point blankly refusing and others charging extortionate delivery costs. Our fixed link to the Mainland should be treated as a Highway, not a ferry crossing that lines the pockets of the fat cats. The wait for a ferry is too long and the cost of ferry is too dear and the length of the car ferry journeys are too long I believe if a fixed link Road tunnel was to be constructed across the Solent it would cut travel time and costs dramatically and would massively improve the Isle of Wight in many ways. It would provide so much opportunity for the island, for business, tourism and social wellbeing. Ferry link is outdated & viable access needs to be provided for the island to have an economic future, keeping the island held firmly in the grip of two ferry companies is restrictive & holding back development PAGE 273 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "365 day service at any time Reduced travel time Improve access to mainland for Business and Leisure activities Fixed link will make it easier for people to get employment on the Mainland whilst still living and spending on the Island Break the monopoly of the Ferry Companies Possible levy included in fare to be paid directly to IOW Council " Easier movement to and from the mainland for employment on the mainland and realistic commuting for tourists For the continuing prosperity and livelihood of the Isle of Wight as a whole, transport to and from the mainland needs to be quicker, easier and more competitively priced. As we seem to have an increasingly struggling hospital with patients often forced to travel to the mainland for treatment, these hospitals need to be made more easily accessible for Island people. In a difficult employment market, it would be beneficial for anyone seeking employment to be able to widen their search area due to ease of transport. Because it will be cheaper to get off the island, not to mention quicker! Tourism should increase as again it will be cheaper! My only concern is that crime rate may increase The major positive will definitely be cost for users . Even if it's a toll it will be cheaper than the ferrys... Also you won't get to the terminal to find the ferry just sailing away or full... Then theres the fact that the tunnel will be available 24/7 and not waiting on a schedule It will improve opportunities for islanders and open up the island to more people which will improve our economy. It will also enable people to easily access the mainland at an affordable cost. The beautiful people who live on this beautiful Island NEED good schools, healthcare and businesses to survive and the only way is a fixed link. I think the island is dieing, all our young people will have to leave ton have any hope of a decent future... the ferries are extortionate prices The ferries are unreliable and very expensive for the length of journey. The job prospects would be greater for islanders and we would no longer be disadvantaged by that tiny stretch of water. Freedom to travel at convenience not weather reliant. Reduced time waiting. Happy to pay for convenience I believe a fixed link will vause the island to lose some individuality but is important for tourism and the island economy. However, to preserve some aspect of the AONB i believe the link should not be direct to the heavily populated Portsmouth area. The Island needs to attract more business here for it to survive, we are so consumed by retired people and social welfare, the Island cannot survive with this majority. We as Islander's should not be punished if we want to go to the mainland, but it feels like we are every time we have to pay for that absurd ferry charge, especially in the summer!! So I am very much for a fixed link and feel it should be done as a toll charge, like the motorways and other bridge links. A fixed link can be easily achieved round Yarmouth side, enforcing all shipping goes around the other side of the Island. The Island has become more and more isolated with all the associated negatives, that is, health, social and economic. ferries are too expensive and disruption on travel is too high (takes too long to get on/off the island) especially by car Will promote business and tourism, whilst making it easier for island businesses to recruit from mainland and Island residents to find employment / study on mainland. Will also take strain off IOW NHS More investment would come to the island , if your movements on and off the island were not governed by a ferry company E.g. Technical delays , overbooking , staff shortages PAGE 274 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • through illness ,high demand at peak times , bad weather , or any other excuse they they always use The cost and restrictions the ferry's have on businesses are increasing all the time, you have to be a genius sometimes to work out how to get the stock you want over here without having to wait for night ferries or rectricted crossings. And the added cost is just not funny, businesses across the water don't have to deal with this and we should not either. I have lived on the IOW for 22 years and have always found the ferries restricting and costly. As children have grown realise that lack of opportunity on IOW for young adults is stifling. Fixed link offers real chance for IOW to lift head out of 1950's and offer greater access to its beauty and more opportunity to its youngsters The Island is suffering a stagnated yesteryear romantic view of itself. wages are low unemployment is high. There is a number of families who do not get off the Island. The bar will have to be lifted in all areas if the Island is to compete with trade just over the water. As long as there is sufficient planning and investment in to the effects of extra population. There should be an incentive to not bring a car but offer park and ride services/ bike hire/ car pooling/ The Island would breathe easier, traffic will flow both ways. The IW relies on tourism far too much. We need to encourage clean industry, research and educational establishments to the IW in order to increase the average wage level and to keep young families here. "Competition drives innovation and will allow the island to grow like the rest of the country. The highstreet is a shambls of pound stores and is in dier need of some current highstreet stores. I was born on the Island and grew up there until i perminantly moved to bournemouth for university and work, therefore I have to pay a substantial amount for me and my partner to travel from Bournemouth to see my family. Tansport is monopolised on the Island and they control the place. The Island needs this to survive, it will allow businesses to financiay afford yo trade and allow the island to grow." Personally I believe it would be so much easier with a tunnel. I grew up on the island I have family and friends still there and I don't get back to the place I call home nearly often enough as its just way to expensive to go there. I moved away due to the need of a bigger house plus my partner at the time felt trapped on the island as anytime you want to go away you have to add extra cost and time due to ferries. Clearly it will benefit the economy question is just if that benefit is enough to justify the cost It would provide a much-needed boost to the island's infrastructure; it's ludicrous that the Isle of Wight - which sits such a short distance from the most teeming, prosperous part of mainland Britain - still has to rely on overpriced and slow ferries to get to and from the mainland - especially when comparisons are made with links to islands throughout Europe, for instance. The island desperately needs help for improving, the loss of shops & closing of tourist attractions are increasing due to money which is not being received due to the lack of visitors from island residents & tourists. An easier route to the mainland opens up more opportunities for jobs, travel & easier open access to & from the island. The prices of the ferries are ridiculous & greedy which is a big factor for visitors & island residents who feel they are trapped. Having a fixed link does not make the island any less of an island Cost of silent travel are extremely expensive and put island businesses at a disadvantsge easier access for work and family as very limited on the island and will attract more tourism to the island will happily pay a toll to use a fixed link "The island need 's to move with time it's Becoming very run down in certain areas PAGE 275 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Which puts people off returning.sadly many people don't see the best parts and only remember the run down parts" It would break the ferry duo opoly and give residents choice and freedom to travel 24 hours a day The IOW needs to get into the 21st century. the economic impact of being able to actually commute by car to the mainland without the time restrictions and cost of the ferries is of immeasurable value to the island which far outweighs outdated perceptions of the damage that would be done to the life of the island. The ability to travel to and from the island any time, day and night Economical & Social Factors. We are held to ransom by the ferry companies and they provide at times a very poor service. Greater opportunity for employment and education. The world is becoming smaller and without the ability to have strong and reliable communication links the island will become a backwater, which will increasingly be a burden on the local tax payer. Fewer would leave the Island, creating sustainability (my son, an aspiring engineer, has no choice but to leave for work). Greater choice/quality of contractors/products (currently limited with local companies or those who will deliver, resulting in a two-tier UK system) I was negative before but think the island needs to keep its young people. I have 3 daughters in their early 20's all want to live on the island but there are no jobs. They would commute if given the chance Essential to bring enough communications and to enable the IoW to attract talented professionals - such as the doctors, teachers, etc that we need Greater access to a wider range of quality professional jobs would have a positive effect on the island. The cost of getting over to the isle of Wight is becoming more each year than going abroad therefore our only revenue (tourism) is going to decrease year by year. Ease of travel around the rest of the uk both to and from the island. Improvement in communications should, if managed properly, improve opportunities for tourism, business and education Easier access to specialist healthcare. Boost business. Improve education Make travel so much easier rather than being at the mercy of a ferry timetable which is subject to cancellation due to "illness" I feel the ferries can't cope with the volume of commuters & its only going to get worse. The other positive is you would be able to go any time of day, so if like us on many occasions, you can get to the airport's on time without the cost of a hotel the night before or after you holiday because of an early or late flight. Without a FL the Island will continue to be ignored and treated as the "poor man" of SE England. Isolationism is to the detriment of successful societies. The cost of crossing the Solent is prohibative and has killed the IOW as a place for businesses to locate to if they want to develop. Also the IOW has become stuck in a rut and needs easy and economical transport to the mainland to revitalise itself and to create a better future for the next generation. Easier, quicker, less hassle, more affordable, For the Island to move forward especially in Education it is essential to enable the unrestricted movement between the mainland & the island & the cost of the ferries is just so prohibitive. Ferry costs are restrictive to family life. The ferries are too expensive for regular visits or commuting for work, education or medical treatment. I moved from the island 2 months ago due to my son needing to attend a college in Southampton. The iow college didn't cater for what he wants to do so he had no choice PAGE 276 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • but to go to the mainland. Before we moved he travelled 3 hours each way to attend his classes. That's 6 hours at great expense and not even over a great distance to gain an education he is entitled to. He was exhausted and his studies suffered. A fixed link would have cut his commute in half and I wouldn't have considered moving! I love the island and it's lifestyle but unfortunately it is geared towards the older generations and isolation rather than wanting to thrive and trying to keep its younger generations on the island. We left all our family so that my son could have an education he deserves and we haven't been back since and probably won't go back for awhile, not because we don't want to go back but due to the prices of the ferries. Even as foot passengers it would would cost my family over £70 to visit for the day which is just not doable and what if there was an emergency?! The last ferries aren't late enough if you need to get off or on the island and I personally don't know anyone with that kind of extra cash just to jump on a ferry when they need to. "lots of people to go to island for holiday because of travel cost by ferries - increased tourism = more jobs easier for young people to work off the island easier for elderly to use health care not available on the island easier to support family as needed for those who have left but still need to go back and support family The cost and travel time of crossing at the moment is the barrier " Lived on both island and mainland. The cost of ferries is isolating when living in the island. Visiting family on the island the ferry costs more then the stay. Wouldn't mind paying for the tunnel as long as it was fixed price and reasonable price. I believe a fixed link would provide more business opportunities and employment to residents of the Island. Eliminate isolation and improve choice in education. Will certainly remove the unfair monopoly of ferry services. Given that the ferry companies hold all businesses to ransom, I can't see any other way to bring jobs to the island. The island already has a high level of alcohol, social problems and drug abuse. A fixed link in whatever form will not make this any worse. It will open up employment opportunities by providing more reliable and hopefully affordable travel options. Tourism may also benefit with cheaper options available to tourists rather than expensive wightlink or red funnel tickets. as this is a tourist island and the ferry company charge on av £80 to £100 per crossing I believe it would be great for tourism, easy access to hospitals and easier for people on the island to find better paid jobs, Ease and speed of travel and economic impact on the ability of businesses to function and society on the Isle of Wight. The risk of relying on the ferries and the cost and time implications are high, it is not fair and actually causes a massive negative impact on the residents, economy and workers. For business ,'tourism etc Because it will be an easier and cheaper option for people to come and go from the Island, meaning a better way of life for residents and visitors. The Isle of Wight is located in one of the most prospectus areas of the UK but the economy is restricted by the simple access to and from the island being too expensive, infrequent and unreliable. It is vital to the sustainability of the islands development and regeneration to compete in a national and international economy The island is dying, business is falling apart over here. People don't have the freedom to travel easily to the mainland. Work opportunities will rise rapidly. Day trips are more realistic. I think it is vital for the future of the people that reside on the island PAGE 277 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Island can't attract high Quality medicsl or teaching staff and is starved of investment All weather crossing is important, Ferries are run to make profit for shareholders, not to serve the Islanders. They need replacing and servicing and cause pollution But it has to be one way! We cannot accommodate unlimited mainland visitors. You ether price them away or limit number / day. Road will be best given modern delivery methods and tourist trends The island is dying on its feet & gone into decline - businesses / Hotels closures universities for families - specialist hospitals. So many things are out of reach both in terms of time and cost for Islanders, when that needn't be the case. A quick, cheap connection to the mainland that can still be monitored and policed should bring huge benefits. Retention of a younger population and more 'spur of the moment' tourism would both be increased. Travel for vital health services, or family occasions, would not be disrupted by the very poor ferry services which seem to be cancelled at the drop of a hat these days. To move the IOW into the 21st century . To gain easier access to Southampton and Portsmouth hospitals. To challenge the ferry monopoly. "The IOW is in dire need of change in order to adapt to the changing times. Our work, social and holidaying habits have changed massively and to avoid heading into a complete socio-economic heap we need to act now to inject new life into the Island's businesses which in turn will have a knock on effect on jobs. We cannot pretend that there is a boom in vintage holidays just around the corner, and to be sustainable in the long term we need to bring the Island on a par with our competitors along the south coast who are £100 - £250 per trip closer than we are. Personally, my business is struggling to compete in the marketplace for mainland business because of the levies placed on us by the ferry operators. Our travel costs are double or even treble that of our mainland-based competitors, yet ferries sponsor events allowing organisers and promoters to bring our competitors here to do job which, by rights, should be projects on which we are logistically (and therefore financially) better placed to do. " The island needs all the help it can get The ferries are unreliable and very expensive Would help with astronomical ferry prices, weather issues, and a tunnel would not impact the views from the island. It would not be weather reliant. The price would be the same regardless of time/date and you could come and go when it suited you. The island my family's home, is becoming more and more desolate each year, it's years behind the rest of the country and needs help to improve all aspects of life on the island. All my life I have been against a fixed link. But I am a true believer it will help us now. I saw it at Florida Keys. Having a fixed link would help island people into work on the mainland and tourism would increase for the island with visitors being able to pop over to our beaches etc for the day without the ridiculous high cost of the ferry. Island residents would benefit from being able to quickly leave the island to visit mainland family etc. Bus services could offer special island to mainland fares and business in general would benefit. The island will not survive without a fixed link. A smooth as possible link to the mainland before the Island dies completely. Facilitates easier and quicker travel on and off the island at any time even though may well cost similarly to current ferries in terms of tolls. Thus it improving desirability of some where to live and also visit More visitor as some cant afford the ferry I was born and bred in London, though have been associated with the Island since 1971. Permanent resident for 19yrs. London could not function without its bridges (QE2 for PAGE 278 • • • • • • • • • • instance) and tunnels Blackwall, Rotherhithe, and Dartford. The dinosaurs that still live and breath on the Island really need to adjust to a time where connectivity is essential. I'm a heart patient and now a heart mentor to heart patients. Have a heart attack and require emergency surgery as I did, and you have to go to the mainland. My trip to Southampton took nearly 3 hours... I was lucky (no air ambulance was available) that the sea was calm and the ambulance was given priority on the ferry. Equally it could have been that I'd have had to wait as any passenger does... a bridge or tunnel would have meant a quicker, safer and more certain journey. I now also work with students at Portsmouth University training to be Graduate Paramedics virtually all that come from the Island have to live in Portsmouth because of the unreliability and cost of the ferries. A bridge or tunnel would mean they would have the opportunity to remain on the Island whilst training. The knock on effect might be it would also encourage them to remain on the Island once qualified. The Isle of Wight will be more easier to get to and from, Providing the link was affordable for the ordinary person (all incomes), a link would put the IW on par with the mainland in terms of access to jobs, education, healthcare and social aspects. Difference between same job on Island and mainland is circa 20-20,000. The salaries and opportunities on the island for job seekers are pitiful even for well qualified people. Having an affordable fixed link would improve people's quality of life tremendously. It is behind the times on the island by 30 years which is quaint sometimes but not for the standard of living for the working population. If you look at the Isle de Rey and Isle Olleran in Western France, they both now have bridges and this has not changed the cultural and social dynamic of the Islands which still have their charm. They are more touristic than the Isle of Wight which has more businesses linked to mainstream business i.e. manufacturing, marine industry, as well as agriculture and tourism. I have family on the Isle of Wight and it is difficult (and EXPENSIVE) to travel on a ferry with a baby, if there was a tunnel that I could travel by car from Fareham that would be so much more convenient. it would benefit the island hugely to have a fixed link transport system. It's 2017 - and ridiculous - that the only way to get there is by ferry!!! Positive, both island and mainland residents are held hostage by the ferrry companies, by both the high fares they charge and the sometimes not so helpful timetables. If it was made easier and cheaper to travel to and from the island then this would not not only impact families, but surely would have a positive influence on business, tourism and healthcare. Ferry companies charge too much money for us to visit family on the mainland. To be able to come and go as we please would be beneficial. Toll charges would not be a problem for me or my family. as a resident i am fed up with the ferry services ripping my family off each summer and my family on the mainland coming to visit. at the moment there is no alternative and there is no competition. its the same with the buses on the island, no competition charge what they want..... We are being left behind the South East Will make easier traveling for businesses to travel either way, for accurate timings for travel arrangements especially in bad weather and high tourist season. Also a flat rate instead of getting charged more for busy sailings that means we might pay £80 each way, which for small businesses is hard to pay out and be competitive with mainland companies The island is dying. The high street is dying. No real opportunities for island youth either for work or housing, a fixed link would allow them better access to college, for training and jobs. The ferries are unreliable. The hospital is unable to respond to island needs, either from a lack of beds or staff. The convenience of a tunnel for the islanders would be beneficial as Wightlink have reduced there evening crossing dramatically over the last 5 years, and there prices are going up,It supposed to be a service but only 3 sailing on a saturday evening is not a PAGE 279 • • • • • • • • • • • • • service.When ferry sailing are cancelled due to weather, or lack of staff due to illness, like last week(15th Feb) this effects the residents who work on the mainland.If you need to get to the mainland in an emergency a tunnel would be more beneficial, It can be subsidized with a toll, Islander would not mind paying for the convenience but its got to be considerably cheaper than the ferrys,and with it being alot cheaper more people will travel to the mainland Ferry services totally outdated. Too expensive, unreliable & held to ransom by them. Adds huge amount of traveling time & cost to journeys away & puts off a lot of visitors to island due to cost! For the Island to thrive it needs to be more accesible car ferries so expensive stops people coming over astronomical ferry charges.. faster access both ways..no cancellations for travelling.. more businesses may invest on the island.. . more visitors =more prosperity A fixed link is vital. It is the only way that educational standards, employment prospects, healthcare, and many other factors that are in rapid decline on the Island can be salvaged. I wouldn't mind if a trip cost the same as a ferry trip. The biggest problem for business and mobility is the amount of lost time, and inconvenience of the ferries. To lose only 3 hours a day (realistically 1 hour each way, plus 30 mins waiting - much more if you miss a booked ferry), is a good result! A fixed link crossing could probably be complete within 10 minutes. For the Island to prosper we need reasonable transport costs, the ferry companies have been exploiting the situation and the stranglehold the have needs to be broken. Accessibility from either side. The island has changed so much since I was a teenager growing up and not all for the better. We have a very high elderly population,way too much traffic,very expensive boat fares, our young people feel they have to move away to have any decent chance of good job prospects which provides a fair standard of living. My list can go on and on. My family and there are 4 of us very rarely go to the mainland because even as foot passengers it costs the best part of £30 before you start. The island if you've lived here all your life offers little in the way of excitement to be able to go off and explore new places as you've done them many times over. A fixed link would ensure tourism would still be great maybe even better if more people can come just for the day at a cheaper price, and we could get to the mainland easier without having to add extra time on just for the boat which may or not be running on time. Our young people would be able to have the flexibility of being able to afford to have a job on the mainland and be able to commute still living on the island spending money in a variety of areas not just solely the mainland or the island. Our education would improve as it should attract more teachers who could commute very much easier the health care would be improved as patients would be able to access mainland appointments better and the island would be able to offer more treatments here on a mobile basis. A lot of people say it will spoil the island as crime will go up and things will be like the mainland dire in some places, but we have to move with the times the island is dying it is like a giant old peoples home nothing wrong with old people but to keep it vibrant attractive to young people and professionals we need a change, or I fear very much that my children one won't be able to afford to live on the island or have a good job here. So it's a positive prospect, I can't wait. It would help with social service, medical services and working people It Will Make It Easer For Businesses To Operate FromThe Island The cartel of ferries and hovercraft need to be superceded. The cost of travel reduces mobility of islanders! Better job opportunities for islanders, better tourism, people will be able to get on/off the island for cheaper, better for healthcare, be able to liaise better with mainland hospitals, people will be able to afford to go to mainland appointments. Would be less reliant on Ferries and their sparse timetables, would increase daily tourism, less weather affected, better/quicker hospital links for Ambulances etc. PAGE 280 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Increased job prospects, tourism, access to health care, lower cost of living We are being left behind over on the Isle of Wight. We are looked down at over here. It is much needed for the Island, especially where we are more reliant on the mainland for services such as health, social care and education. I believe it will improve the quality of people's lives on the Island as well as speed up access to the rest of the mainland/civilisation. To me as main-land resident: it seems illogical not to even want to investigate alternative ways of getting to the Island; what do you have to lose? Anyone can see that with unreliable, expensive Ferry route that the Island could seriously suffer long-term in regards to living standards. I visit friends a few times a year on the island it’s a pain! A few areas seem run down and they feel very much like you are going back in time, you really need to do with something to stimulate the tourism industry. Why would I go and stay on the island, when going aboard is cheaper than a few miles on the Ferry? A fixed link would be an expensive venture, but all options have to be considered now. You have a beautiful Island, but would never ever, even consider living or bring a business to the Isle of Wight. you get more people coming for the day. just to be able to afford a day out.more jobs as the cost of transporting would be cheaper.we know we have the most expentive crossing in the world. some people dont leave the island because they cant afford to. Ease of commuting. The island is now dead - there are no two ways about it. Gone are the days when the model village was an attraction, or when BAE provided stable employment. A fixed link is the only way to fix the Island and propel it into the 21st century. I am 33, and left the IOW when I was 19 for employment on the mainland, and now I am lucky enough to earn a large salary and be comfortable - the point of mentioning that is because if there was a fixed link I wouldn't have left - I could have travelled freely each day to work and back. My salary would have bought a house on the IOW, I'd of paid council tax, I'd be spending my money into the Island's economy - and thousands of others would do the same. getting the ferries to reduce their prices isn't a solution - its actually quite a selfish ask. they are a business not a charity - end of conversation. Do I think they're expensive? Yes, I do. Do I understand they want to make money? Of course I do. The tunnel is much needed. Would I come back and live on the IOW if access on and off was much easier? 110% yes. You can travel when you want whatever the weather. No waiting for ferries no problem with weather or any other problems and it would be cheaper. "Cheaper travel costs, ether from using the fixed link or driving down ferry costs. Relive pressure on St Mary’s hospital More day visitor tourism, particularly on the off-season More employment opportunities, both on and off the Island " "A fixed link would help to attract better skilled workers to the Island. The Solent is a dealbreaker when it comes to employing the UK's best educators and healthcare professionals, who have friends and family on the mainland. It would also help to make the island a less inconvenient place to stay and settle down, to the next generation of Islander's. It would make it more attractive to those who currently pass through local schools, but dream of leaving the Island to follow their careers. A fixed link would help to make the Island more connected, but also more self sufficient." Positive is dependant on usage cost/ season ticket options It will give island residents and businesses a chance to prosper. The Economy and therefore the welfare of the IoW is dependant on a fixed link being established. To give the Island the best opportunity in education, retail and health care, it needs to cater for a wide range of educational opportunities and statis PAGE 281 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "the ferry companies are killing the IOW in terms of freedom of movement/business/investments we need a fixed link now." cheaper more reliable alternative. During the winter ferries get delayed/cancelled whereas a tunnel would be 24/7 Tentatively positive as it would enable me/husband to commute to mainland, so wider choice of jobs. Also teenage kids could consider A levels on mainland, and maybe a general boost to the IW economy as easier for people to visit & spend here. BUT worried about loss of IW's unique character, would it encourage more 2nd home ownership with all the downsides that brings, maybe it would cause heavy traffic in summer, also what about the squirrels! How can a tunnel be grey squirrel proofed? The Isle of Wight struggles in so many ways due to not having a fixed link. We are held to ransom by the ferry companies, even though for us the journey from the island to the mainland should form part of the national road network. Islanders cannot easily commute to jobs on the mainland and therefore mainly have to take jobs on the island where we are paid less than the going rate in Southampton/Portsmouth and elsewhere. This seems unfair to me. The freedom of movement a tunnel would allow is the most positive factor for me, not effected by weather etc. People will be able to travel to and from the Island for Employment, Healthcare, Recreation and Shopping without having to pay over the top prices on the Ferry which is killing our Island. I also believe more people will visit the Island as it will be cheaper to get over here. Not so dependant on weather, so would be great around for businesses, commuters, and tourism. It would allow travel to the main land when ever you wanted instead of having to book, pay a fortune, and run your life around ferry timetables. We have been held hostage by the ferry companies for far too long. The Island has long had the highest unemployment in the South of England, with two large cities on the doorstep which could potentially be reached by bus a fixed link can only be a positive. We hav to move with the times. The people of the Island need to be able to access all he mainland for all number of reasons at a cost they can afford and not be held to ransom by the ferry companies Feel that it would be beneficial to the island's tourism due to the high costs of the current ferry's Without a fixed link the Island will sink into economic decay. We need to move with the times. If there is a fixed link the culture of the Island will change. It may become a destination of choice for tourism, and job prospects for working people will improve dramatically - for those wanting to work on, or off the Island. Retired folk on the Island may well resist change but resistance is unfair on everyone else. You have to look ahead to long term solutions and trends and base decisions on these factors Many island inhabitants are complacent, live in the past and don't want change. A fixed link can only bring the island up to date by opening peoples' eyes to the fact there is another world out there! Speed and ease of travel. Whether you see the Island as a holiday destination, an place for business investment or a place of commuting the fact that we have a body of water between us and the mainland means we will always be second best compared to other locations without adequate, flexible, affordable travel between the island and the mainland. Why spend an extra £100 for travel to come to the IOW when we can drive directly to Cornwall or Devon for a fraction of the cost and better facilities when there. Similar arguments can be put forward for any aspect of the islands economy. As far as the culture of the island goes, it is clear PAGE 282 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • from other islands, notably Skye, that a fixed link is no barrier to the continuation of a distinct and unique island which is, ultimately, why we all love the place. It will mean more people will come to the island, bringing more tourism and help for smaller businesses, but it will also improve lives of individuals who live and work on the island as they will have easier access to the mainland to travel, visit family etc It would allow more freedom of travel and better access to the island and vice versa. Healthcare when off the island would be easier to access and tourism would boost It would provide residents with a 24/7 link to the mainland, irrespective of the weather and the poor and expensive ferry service. It is likely that I will need to commute at some stage in my career and I want to stay living on the Island due to strong family and freind networks and to communte by public transport would make commuting difficult and very unattractive In addition the Island offers little in the way of opportunities for the younger generation and a fixed link would open up opportunites that would enable the younger generation to continnue living on the Island, lets face it without the younger generation the Island would suffocate. It would bring chronically needed investment and job security to island residents. It would bring to an end the constant grid locks around the ports and ease the traffic flow during island events such as the festival. Ease of visiting particularly at short notice We need to be more accessible to tourism and the cost of the ferries are putting the tourists off coming over. Business across the island suffers during the winter due to no tourism. The weather can isolate the island having no other way to get on & off without the use of the ferries and they do not run 365 days at normal time tables. I have been visiting the IOW every year for the last 50 years and I am convinced a speedy fixed link would be hugely beneficial to the economy of the Island despite the reservations of many residents there. Is been done in Scandinavian and the Florida keys and allows travel and shipping so a great option As above Worked in the economic / business / innovation development sector circa 20 years ago and nowt has changed - except our economy has gone down hill the ferry acts as a restriction of movement The economy of the island is very poor with limited prospects of a good recovery or to be similar to the mainland. Jobs and careers are limited and a fixed link OR better pricing fire island residents to be able to commute and for business to be able to import/export is a must. Unreliable ferries too expensive This is an Island and should remain an Island. I moved here with my business and family 15 years ago because it was an Island. I have daily interaction with ferries with family and business and appreciated this when i moved here so everybody should just accept this or THE alternative, move to the mainland. "Times are changing, the island whether it likes it or not needs to move forward with the times. Life is busy nowadays, everything is quick and at the touch of a button, the link will enable life to flow freely to and from the island. Just an example but why do people have the latest mobile phones?....because they're quick, instant, at the touch of a button, gives access to so many apps, online banking, life is fast paced, everything at your finger tips. That's what we need now, we need accessibility to the mainland and its services, opportunities, education, we need the mainland at our fingertips without an hour on the ferry. The ferry costs are part at fault for killing the tourist trade and also make it extremely expensive to get off the island. Businesses have to pay more for deleiveries due to ferry costs. If we need police response as we have recently on the island, we have to wait for them to come over on the ferry...it's not practical. We could access better services from Hampshire- for example; social workers, teachers and healthcare to name a few. Better opportunities for younger generations to socialise in bigger circles, access PAGE 283 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • colleges/university, the realisation that there is more to life than the IOW. Employment prospects would increase in turn reducing the unemployment here. Ferries are unreliable as proven recently by Wighlink. Bad weather cuts us off. I love this island, I was born here and my family are here but it's very dated and now under invested which is ruining this beautiful place. " "It's an opportunity to work / study on the mainland and still live on the isle of Wight. The overall cost on the ferries has got out of hand stopping family and friends from visiting or us being able to visit them as much as we should or could It would also help the economy on the island and open us up to far more opportunities . This needs to be a way forward " Having had to take one of my children regularly to Salisbury hospital some years ago by ferry for consultations, operation and follow up checks some as quick as 5minutes, I had to pay full cost on each crossing and was restricted by there times. Easy access to both island & mainland for buisiness & education That a reliable and economic link is long overdue to save what is left of, and to help regenerate, the Island's economy and education system. "Would bring more tourism all year round not just Summer months. Cheaper to visit relatives on mainland. But - must be cheaper for iow residents. My husband lives in London during the week, with a tunnel he would be able to commute easier and cheaper than relying on unreliable, over-expensive trains s a present!" Ease of access to and from the island .to help buisness grow and create employment . Nothing changes if nothing changes .. The Iow needs to change to survive. Increasing ferry costs and reduction of services are making the Island too expensive and inconvenient for both visitors and residents. Unless we get a government willing run the ferries as a public service, I see no future for the Island without a fixed link. Would drag the island into the 21st century. Would be amazing for businesses. Would open up a whole new world of job opportunities for our current workforce and that of our future generations. Would make the commute quicker, easier, cheaper and with much less possibility of serious time delay. Would also not be trapped here/there on xmas day and in high winds. Nothing more annoying than waiting hours for a ferry. Please find a way to make this happen! You really could be the ones to make a real and lasting difference! Time to wake the island up! Much more environmentally friendly For the future prosperity of the Isle of Wight we needs new cost effective gateway for tourism and business I think it would improve the Island in so many ways i.e. tourism as well as this I feel the price of travel off the island is too much "I work on the island but travel to work on the mainland every week. I need better connections. My son is a junior ice hockey player and since ryde arena has been closed we are looking at alternative rinks to train at. The ferries are either too slow or non existent at the times we require. " The Solent is known to be the most expensive piece of water to cross need anyone say more. The idea of a fixed link can only be positive depending on the cost to use the fixed link. Overprice the charge then you could end up cutting your nose off to spite your face. The island is dying. Unemployment is rife, house prices are rising, the council is in dire straits and tourism is rapidly becoming something of an anachronism. Without looking forward we are in real danger of having to literally close the island for business. A fixed link, whatever form it takes, is guaranteed to help drag the island into the 21st century. Perhaps we should take a tip from our Victorian ancestors on whose history so much of our island heritage is based. Let's take inspiration from the century that saw the industrial revolution push the world to a new, brighter future, rather than continue pushing ourselves back into the dark ages. PAGE 284 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • There's no alternative to the fixed link, the island continues to decline due to the stranglehold of the ferry services. Ease of access in both directions for everyone - for tourism, business, health care, education.... the list is endless. The IOW is no longer the quaint sleepy place it used to be. What used to make it attractive to tourists is now what keeps them away. All will benefit hugely from a fixed link especially schools and healthcare. We owe it to the next generation. The Island is cut off from the mainland and opportunities for our young people are severely restricted as a result. We don't receive enough special funding to help this problem and never will. We will still remain a special place but with more opportunities I feel the Isle of Wight is struggling under the burden of social care and a lack of employment opportunities. Hospital services seem to be moving to the mainland and those services become more and more difficult to access affordably. Education and GPs are struggling to recruit. I don't think the Fixed Link will resolve all these issues, but the Isle of Wight will become a more attractive location for employment - I believe this will be a benefit to the Island in the long term. Social mobility and better employment for Islanders would become achievable with the advent of affordable access to Hampshire. In my view, many of the socioeconomic negatives affecting the Island are linked to its isolation from the mainland. A fixed link would enable it to thrive instead of becoming simply a retirement community. The Island is being held to ransom by ferry companies. Cheaper, unhindered access to and from the Island would generate more positive cashflow from larger businesses who see the Island as soemthing unique, but more easily accessible just like other parts of Hampshire. I believe the Island would not lose it's USP but would flourish with a fixed link. The island offers appeal to many from the mainland in terms of business connections with Islanders and tourism, but the current ferry costs are prohibitively extortionate. The cost of the ferries is causing the IOW to become financially isolated, both socially and economically. The single reason my friends and family give for not visiting more frequently is the cost of the ferry crossings, otherwise they would. Equally I know performers in the entertainment industry who feel they can't consider performing here due to costs. Anybody wanting to attend cultural activities of a certain calibre is forced to travel to the mainland and are duty bound to leave half way through a performance in order to make the last ferry. It's ridiculous. Healthcare and education options are hugely compromised and are deeply detrimental for the community. Lack of ease of access for certain disabled persons on the current transport systems (including hover) is a disgrace. This is unforgivable, unacceptable and illegal in 2017. We NEED a tunnel, bridge, whatever it takes. I feel the resistance from some of the IOW's population to have such, is purely driven by their archaic opinion that in their minds the Isle of Wight, should remain the Isle of Wight. The right wing council seem to uphold these xenophobic views, they are a disgrace. The IOW is a beautiful place, let's celebrate that and share it with others, not rot in bigoted isolation. It will attract more tourism to the island and keep those smaller privately owned business running! "fed up with being held to ransom over greedy ferry companies. Equally services are increasingly disrupted due to weather, breakdowns & 'circumstances beyond control' (sickness)" This Island is poor,& dying.It needs free flow of trade,& accessibility for businesses to thrive here. It may encourage more decent teachers & other professionals to move to the Island. It could save my life if I need specialist healthcare, I'm sick of wasting my life at ferry ports, I could visit family more often and I'd be happy to pay high toll charges, if it were a tunnel I wouldn't be trapped every time the wind blows and It would make ferry companies improve their services. I would give us all a wider choice of opportunities in education, employment and culture. PAGE 285 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I believe that the Island is dying - more hospital services are being moved to the mainland while central government enforce austerity cuts. More businesses are closing because of the increasingly high and unreliable ferry services preventing tourism. The Island is becoming a less and less desirable place for young people to live, because of the lack of opportunities. This drives house prices down, and, in my opinion, in combination with the above provides a vicious circle of poverty and degradation, which, in my opinion, could be reversed by providing a fixed link. The Island's economy is failing, increasing costs hurting wellbeing. Its time to move forward. This place is stale and needs to be given the chance of life. A fixed link would give the island an injection for the future. Enabling buiseness and people to thrive here and hopefully stop the hemorage of young people leaving I feel it would bring an overall positive effect to the island economy. I do, however, believe there would be a negative impact as having no fixed link does give the island a special something but feel the benefits to business on the island, improved and speedier links to mainland health would outweigh this. It allows people to cross at will, rather than having to wait an hour and a half during the winter timetable! It will be great for a sustaining the island's economy. Would holiday on the island more often if didn't have to take a ferry. Both cost and time taken to travel are very off putting to taking a vacation there. Having worked for the ferry services and seen the profits they make, and now being a regular traveler and the way I am treated they do not balance out. Service is shocking. Having to pay different amounts depending on time of day and year, madness. Due to distances traveled to get there you cannot always estimate arrival then getting told to go away and come back later because the ferrys are busy, late, building there car park. Shocking and unregulated behaviour time and time again "The tunnel option provides for year round access to the mainland and island (not weather dependent) I understand that if this project gets off the ground finance is more readily available that most would have us believe" Because people need to move around efficiently for work, education and healthcare with constant cancellations and cost, it is almost impossible. At my place of work, there is a difficulty in attracting young people to take up jobs on the island and a recurring reason cited for this is the prohibitive costs of ferry travel for young, lower-earners who are required to work day-to-day on the island, but who have regular commitments on the mainland for both work and family. I think a cost effective means of getting on and off the island would be of benefit to all aspects of island life and economy. It can only be a positive in my opinion. The Isle of Wight needs to broaden its horizons, better transport links will or could lead to better integration with the services in Hampshire. We hear all of the time in the local media that services are being cut, because the IWC cannot afford to run them. By improving transport links and improving integration, surely we should benefit from the economies of scale. For business' in future To come and easier for tourists to access our island instead of turning a head due to the extortionate ferry prices Came to live here 5 yes ago and was initially against the idea but now I have found how tricky life is without a link I am in favour. Cost to users MUST be affordable. The crossing is currently a major cost and time barrier to the economy of the island, creating difficulties in the free movement of the residents to enjoy the mainland, and the ability to obtain work in major conurbations of the South Coast and beyond. The island is only a few miles off the mainland but has failed to gain the advantages that should bring, PAGE 286 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • we may as well be 30 miles off the coast. Anywhere else on the continent would have built a link decades ago. living in the island is so restrictive and we miss out on so many opportunities. growing up here is great but we are far to sheltered and education and jobs suffer due to this. Current ferry service outrageously expensive. I think there should be a Bridge at Yarmouth at narrowest point, and a tunnel at Ryde. Most Islands in Holland and Scandinavia are linked by both. Because the island is slowly dying because the ferry cost to much. Which is putting people off from coming It would stimulate the developement of island so much: 1) increase access to education 2) make island more attractiev to work 3) safer links with healthcare centres (significant as NHS is planning to size down specialist treatment on the island) 4) better business opportunities 5) acces to modern technology (I have electric car and finding a company to fit a charger in our house was a nightmare - nobody wants to cover the cost but also time waste of ferry travel) 6) any kind of emergency warrants acces to mainland regardless of weather and time 7) access to the island for those who fear of sea travel (like my mother) 8) easier planning of travel to and from island, help with travel during high season. And probably 1000's other reason why we need this I cannot think of at the moment. It is too expensive to get off the island. If you cannot enforce cheaper ferries we need a fixed linkThe cost of crossing the Solent is crippling business and tourism and hurting the island economy. For residents because cheaper and faster travel to mainland (holidays, hospital visits and even commuting). For tourists because cheaper and more reliable service. For everyone because it would be weather and timetable independent. The worst thing about the IoW is the ferry trip either side; adds a huge cost and time to any journey..! The ferry companies have held us to ransom long enough. Why shouldn't we have a choice (as island residents) to decide how we travel to and from where we live? The fact that it is cheaper to fly abroard than it is to bring a car to the IOW is a scandal. Bring on the fixed link! "the ferries are destroying the island economy and it is slowly being strangled by them, the sole reason bestival moved from the island. apart from the very high prices the service is also dreadful and stuck in the 70's. jh" Easier more cost effective access to the island 24/7 would benefit, general life on the island, will reduce cost of business, make cost of living more favorable, increased tourist trade, improved job prospects, better access for business to the island, more cost effective, better access to medical with improved links to services off island, The cost of the ferry service is having a definitive impact on our seasonal business and postal services to and from the island. Although the thought of a fixed link would not be appealing to most. It is time to look at alternatives to the Ferry services we have. Due to high costs of travel some other kind of link would be an assesst to get off the island. Would love more than anything to travel to the mainland on a regular basis as family live there. But cost of moving is also so high. But surely if the cost of communting is reduced for islander more people would travel and profits would still be made. I've lived here all my life but a fixed link is a must now. Not affected by the weather, not having to book, saving time on your journey, just turn up and drive to the mainland, get home quicker and not watching the ferry go out as you have been stuck in traffic and therefore missed your ferry. The monopoly the ferry company's have is a joke, they charge what they want. As islanders we should be able to travel to the mainland when we want and not brake the bank doing it. Current ferry services inadequate, Unreliable, reduced services and expensive. PAGE 287 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Isle of Wight needs investment. All the while the current transport links exist they'll be a barrier to entry the island needs a 24hr link that which wont cost a absolute fortune it will help bushiness and residents giving them the choice to live on the island and work on the mainland.The sourcing of specialist staff who don't want to live on the island. It maybe what we need to kick-start the failing tourism trade on the island if people can come to the island cheaper than going to Spain. Dinosaur Island should be an attraction, not and adjective ! Increased tourism This islands industry is tourism and the cost of getting on and off the island is destroying it. If you need to leave the island in an emergency you are held captive by the crossing means we need a fixed link. under water is less attractive than a bridge, but either will be better than the current position of two hugely expensive ferry companies. "Island life suffers without a fixed link. Health. Emergency care. Lack of health care services. Ferry service prices hold island residents to ransome. Day trips for families and Educational trips more accessible better quality of life. Business and tourism would flourish with a fixed link more visitors means more income When I qualify my family will move off the island as there are no prospects for us here. My children can receive a better education off the island. Which is sad as the island is a beautiful place to live and raise my girls " Tunnel, no problems with weather issues, we left the Island because of issues in getting to important destinations on the mainland, plus a fixe link could be cheaper than the ferry! we have a Channel Tunnel I do not see any issues with that. Would reduce isolation, especially for people looking for work and those in full time education, and would benefit the economy enormously. Ferry companies have demanded too much for too long limiting the IOW's economical and employment prospects. Having a fixed link would allow the IOW to grow economically but still retain its unique environment in which to visit and live in. I as a former resident would visit so much more taking my family if it were not for the huge ferry costs contributing to the IOW's economy and employment. A simple tunnel/bridge link would be quicker and with reasonable charges be more attractive to many more visitors. It would assist the Isle of Wight economically, resulting in an increase in jobs, wages, tourism, business investment, house prices etc. Greatly needed, both ferry companies offer a poor service. Over the last five years my views have changed and I 100% support a fixed link. It's 2017 and the island needs to move forward. Beacause we need easy access to the mainland 24 hours a day. Which we do not have at the moment. I have moved here from London but I feel the island is held to ransom by the ferry companies and they need competition and residents need an alternative. It would be good for the island and if there was a tunnel/bridge more companies would find it feasible to move here creating more employers on the island and a brighter future for our children. Education, business and social impact on the young people of this island is the most important. Future employment and social stability effects their children's livelihood. If a PAGE 288 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • fixed link brings high quality employment and encourages aspiration for the young, then it's a positive prospect. Using a personal example....During the early hours i can if on the mainland , travel anywhere from UK at anytime in case of an emergency.. on island there is no such provision during early hours of morning. Ridiculous! Because of this we as a family could not get to my mother in law before she died after being taken ill suddenly, instead of a quick drive using a fixed 24 hour link, and a 2 hour drive, in which we could have said our good-byes, we had to wait 3 hours for first ferry .Then drive . precious time we did not have and arrived too late. It would be best for young generations for transport to and from schools in the mainland, and for transport to mainland hospitals Sheer convenience of travel to and from the island. Be so handy!!!! Ferrys are so expensive and time constraints are frustrating!! And weather constraints etc. I want to see my family and not have them pay 120 to come over. Also I want to be able to travel at any time. The ferry crossings are getting less and less and more and.more.expensive.. Travel costs to and from the Island must be having a negative effect on the Island economy. Having to book to travel is also a big restriction. The ferry's are too expensive, so much so that it is killing tourism and businesses on the Island and making it a less desirable place to live. "Investment in the island Boost for tourism Choice of education Choice of jobs People not having to leave because of lack of work People needing hospital treatment on the mainland easier to travel to Visiting family easier Salary increase Business investment Tourism boost " As an Islander I would find it quicker, more convenient and cheaper to travel to the mainland at short notice and a time that suits me, with none or little disruption. A tunnel is not an eyesore Because I want the Isle of Wight to have a future and not remain the backwater of the South of England "Grow the Island economy. Provide better job prospects (on & off the Island).for Island residents. Attract more candidates for Island employers. Easier access to mainland healthcare services." Easier and cheaper access to healthcare, families, education, jobs... Just look at northern Scotland: not being held to ransom by the ferries or weather: unlimited travel anytime for anyone for any reason: more jobs, employment: on/off island supplies It would be a massive boost for the Island's economy. The only proviso I would want to see is that the toll would be around £10 a crossing. We are in desperate need of this Speed of connection will improve the economy More people would use it feerys so expensive even to just walk off. People should have freedom I was born and grew up in the Island. I had to leave because there was no way I could stay and go to uni and then get a decent job afterwards. It's now prohibitively expensive PAGE 289 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • to visit my family, meaning I don't see them as often as I can and I can't help out with the care of my grandparents. At the moment we're trapped on the island by the ferry companies, I love living on the island but our children don't stand a chance, there aren't enough jobs and the prospect of commuting to the mainland is unrealistic due to cost, in my opinion the fixed link would have nothing but positive effects on the islands tourism, work opportunities, and the choice of healthcare. To encourage economic growth and prosperity Because it will help the island re build it's Business and Tourism and Keep FAMILIES together enabling more frequent contact and visits both ways and CUT THE COST OF FERRIES OUT. It's the 21st century for goodness sake....a tunnel is the only way forward to secure the Isle of wights future inline with the rest of the U.K. we need a tunnel asap. Because it would be cheaper to cross each day to work.And more reliable than ferries.When the weather becomes bad.Or when they have mechanical failier. The ferry service is crippling the Island economy and killing the Island. "Ease of access to and from island. 24 7. 365. Tourism boost. Mainland and island job opportunities. Speed of access to mainland in emergency. Reduced cost (fixed link will not be subject to fluctuating and increasing fuel and labour rises. Property prices will rise as Island will be a more desirable place to live." There are no negatives, for people that do not want the Fixed Link and simply say 'Move' shows lack of future vision and compassion. How many more shops are going to close before they see the ferries hold a noose around the island. If i could afford it, and if i could afford to go for interviews on the mainland i would move. Maybe these people would start a fund to help people leave the island, they seem to know what best for all of us. Island is failing and fading away. Monopoly of ferry companies has to stop and this prevent them robbing us in daylight with their extortionate prices changing as they wish!!! More work prospects on mainland for Island people. Easy access for businesses to receive deliveries. More tourism for the Island. A viable alternative to the ferry will provide real competition and will drive down costs whilst providing more options especially in the quieter times when ferry services are less frequent. It would open the island to investment and greater opportunities for young people. People could commute to and from the mainland with ease, it's not about the cost of any tolls but the convenience. Easier access for young people to get to the mainland for jobs, access to better hospitals and school, more tourism The ferries are no longer fit for purpose, constant cancellations for a seemingly never ending variety of reasons, and shockingly expensive even when they do run to timetable! "The ferry does not run for the people or business on the island. It is an over priced, poor timetable service that is nothing more than a profit making scheme for its share holders. We have lived here nearly 40 years and have family on the mainland that agree that the pricing is disgusting high. If a fixed link was built, it would give the freedom to leave and return to the Island when ever we need to. There would not be any excuse for cancelled sailing's e.g bad weather, ferry break down, unexplained cancellations. The people using the fixed link would not be beholden to the ferry companies timetable and its changes. The fixed link could be used all day and night. FREEDOM AND INDEPENDENCE. When leaving the Island, waiting half an hour minimum in the car park before boarding the ferry, then adding 45 minutes to cross three miles. That is nearly 2 hours added to a three mile journey. It would be wonderful to be able to get in the car any time day or night and drive across the fixed link in less than half an hour. In the 1980s when we moved here, the ferries worked with the train service, were cheaper and ran more often. I wouldnt mind PAGE 290 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • paying a toll at all because it cetainly isnt going to cost as much as the ferries charge now. It would open the island up for busnesses on the island without the huge ferry costs. Thats why I think a fixed link would be a positive change for the island. " Huge benefit in time saving and cost for business and residents alike Good for the Isle of Wight Easier for travelling would likely make cost of visiting island cheaper too. Likely effects would be increased tourism and enhanced job opportunities for island residents The ferry servies have almost bought the island to its neds by running the monopoly of access to the island ergo extortionate fares - especially peak season. They are not monitored nor do they have fixed prices like any other public transport system. I would see my family more as the freedom to travel anytime would be a huge positive. More tourists would be attracted to the island for day visits as well as longer trips for holidays including caravans etc. Having family on the mainland and working for minimum wage, the ferry costs just aren't doable very often which means I only see my family once or twice a year! I have been a supporter of a fixed link and continue to see the overall benefits it would bring to the island's future. It's becoming way to expensive to cross this small stretch of watch, at some points in the year I could get a cheaper flight to Spain.. This is affecting the island greatly as people to don't to pay these prices Island I see slowly dying due to over inflated ferry prices and restricted travel times too and from the mainland. Island need tourism to build so we need to get the visitors back in the towns and to the seaside resorts, so the easier to travel freely to and from the island will be so much better. Ferry ports won't suffer gridlocks as a tunnel should just gently flow all day and night. "1. Ferry companies have us over a barrel 2. Weather which prevents cross Solent travel would have no effect 3. As a business owner, cheaper deliveries " The island is dying people can't afford to come here There needs to be cheaper and more reliable 24hr access to and from the island. Ferries are too expensive and time consuming. It's a novelty to go on the ferries if you're visiting the island but not when you live here and have to commute to university in Southampton. It makes any trip to the mainland stressful worrying about leaving wherever you've gone in time to catch the last boat back or having to wait several hours in the middle of the night. "A fixed link would allow freedom to travel to and from the Island no matter what the weather. The haulage companies on the IW must lose thousands of pounds due to lost time due to cancelled or late sailings and I'm sure that if these companies were not afraid of losing their concessionary rates then they would be in favour of a fixed link. At the moment the Ferry Companies have the public over a barrel and can charge extortionate rates especially at holiday times. With a Fixed Link there would be a standard rate, no delays, cheaper delivery of goods to and from the Island and a general benefit to everyone. " Ferry costs are prohibitively high. Difficult to obtain tickets during high season. Whilst a FL could unquestionably provide long term economic benefit. The reality of ever achieving a funding in the near or medium future for such an investment, should turn our attention to the real, achievable control of the Islands "Front Door" our main Port of entry. Followed by the opening up of the possibility of others to offer a competitive service ! Having to rely on an old refurbished ferries and prices charged scares future businesses from coming to the island any time of day or night, having restrictions on travel times ie PAGE 291 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • when ferries don't run also is a restrictive practice which causes social problems and gives the island a Victorian attitude in a modern progressive world, with a fixed link you could come and go without hinder and delays, and encourage more tourism which this island needs to survive. How soon will the IOW cease to survive in business and tourism if we just stay stagnant and keep doing nothing? The Island is on it's knees, the choice is going to be forced on us very soon if we don't do it NOW. We would not be isolated from the mainland, people could go further afield for jobs it would encourage industry to invest in the island which would prosper the island greatly Alternate to the overpriced ferry company's. Would also make the island more inclusive to the rest of the country and would hope this is reflected in employment prospects as this would be more appealing to many companies. The islands economy is severely held back by the current ferries. Way too expensive for local residents and tourists. A fixed link could encourage business to come to the Isle of Wight, which would create jobs. I think the islands economy should be re-orientated within the proposals, for example, if it focussed on attracting high tech, creative, digital industries. As a student who is studying the impacts of mega regeneration projects I do see the downsides to a fixed link (i.e displacement of local people, expensive to implement, islands infrastructure not currently suitable) but I feel the Island is never going to improve unless something major is done. If a fixed link was to go ahead, the design process should be comprehensive so any negative impacts of the project can be ameliorated. I think it unlikely to make traffic or crime worse, yet I suspect economic benefits. But without a study it's impossible to say. We can have days out on mainland within minutes and lower cost for bring goods to and from the island The island is dying a slow death. If we don't get a link sometime very soon it will be too late to save it. "The island is being left behind and needs investment and to encourage tourism. The high cost and terrible service provided by The ferry companies prevent this. " The island needs to be able to develop and provide better services to its residents. The fact is the council needs to get its head out of its arse and look at the bigger picture, drug abuse, unemployment, homelessness, poor education, poor hospital services will not get better if people do not have the chance to better themselves. After recent health issues I moved off the island and I have to say it's the best thing I could have done. The cost of getting to the IoW presently is prohibitive from a business, tourism, healthcare point of view and limits the opportunities for the IoW both now and in the future. Easier, less time and more convenient access to mainland. More business and job opportunities. More government money might be accessible. "increase employment on the island save millions of hours wasted on ferry travel improve educational and health standards on the island boom in the local housing market" Maybe easier to dig out a road tunnel than build a bridge. Because the small modern ferries are unreliable, not only when the weather is poor and a fixed link would be a great transport improvement For residents and visitors a fixed link is more accessible, reliable and possibly less expensive. A fixed link would bring positive benefits to all aspects of Island life, creating more prosperity PAGE 292 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It would reduce the cost of travelling to the mainland in that it would give the ferries competition. The Ferry companies have a stranglehold / monopoly on access to the island and irrespective of cost, one of the major restrictions, is ease of travel without prior planning. A fixed link would enable travellers to and from the island, the ability to travel on a 'whim' rather than have to plan, sometimes, days and weeks in advance. The island needs to seriously consider opening up to greater opportunities to trade and boost the economy. The island economy will continue to stagnate unless it opens up to new inward and outward trade possibilties. weather, reliability, hopefully cost, being held to ransom, fed up with inward looking business people we need to be able to make it easy to do business and transport goods Increase business and tourism through reduced crossing costs meaning prosperity for the island Access The ferry's have the monopoly and there should be an easier way of travelling to the mainland for a day or more by paying a reasonable toll each way . the ferry service to and from the island is a totally inadequate form of travelling 4 miles. Constant delays and cancellations and an hour and a half if you are lucky each way is totally unreasonable. A fixed link is the only alternative to bring the island into the real, modern world. Undoubtedly a busier island, but attracting top teachers and doctors to the island will be far easier, standards will rise for all services (more competition) and costs will fall (in many areas of business and retail services). Without it, 20 years' time will be even further behind SE England on almost every yardstick. More tourism, fast access to other hospital services without waiting for boats and helicopters. Continued travel during high winds. Would stop the monopoly of ferry operators charging extortionate fares for the relatively short crossing, enabling more visitors and holiday makers to enjoy an affordable holiday. It would also enable Islanders to visit the mainland more often and cheaper delivery of goods to the Island. To encourage better healthcare, education, business etc we need to be less isolated, also it would improve the quality of life for many people who have to make routine trips off the island. Ease of access to mainland, greater ability for job exploration increased ability to access to specialist healthcare and ease of access of education finally sustainability of health and social care and improvements in stimulating the market place to create a sustainable health and social care infrastructure . It would work out cheaper for visitors to come to the island ferry prices are stupendous and you can go to France cheaper I have answered positive as I would be able to live on the Isle of Wight and still be able to work across the water. I also have family on the Island and this makes it very hard to see them on a regular basis. I have lived on the Island all my life. I now find the ferry crossings restrictive and expensive. I feel I would have been able too train for a career if travelling on and off the Island had been more flexible. Ferry crossings are very expensive and I find the timings are restrictive in everything I try to do. This island is dying Personally, it's the only factor that's making me and many other young people leave the island. We are taking our degrees and qualifications elsewhere because we are my prepared for that costly, timely commute The island suffers from a lack of investment both from government and privately. Residents are compelled to leave as career opportunities are so limited which damages the community. The cost of travel across the Solent has become prohibitively expensive PAGE 293 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • with excessive price increases for a very unreliable service being both unreasonable and the main cause of businesses and people withdrawing from the island causing an unbalanced population demographic. A fixed link would have a significant positive impact on local business, tourism and community. It is a right of the people of the Isle of Wight to has reasonable access to the mainland and at present they do not. The social and economic benefits of a fixed link need a fixed link to happen if the island is to continue to grow It's the 21st century,The Island needs to move with the times or die. The Island desperately needs investment Prospects for young are poor on the Island. A brain drain occurs with those going away to university and those staying behind. Employment is low and there is very little new blood coming in to our schools, the staff just rotate. Tourism brings money too island,,we need regeneration. The island is dying throu lack of investment and jobs no incentive with the current dependencies on the ferrys. A lot of time wasted at terminals and also the cost of tickets. The island is declining greatly, lack of investment most likely due to escalating transportation costs, a cheaper, faster, more reliable form of transport would address at least some of the islands current issues Freedom to move around, the only thing that will encourage investment in jobs here from mainland investors. Cheaper & time saving for the employees, businesses & the younger generation to cross The Solent. All now want the journey to happen in an instant. It would be good to keep a daytime car ferry for the tourists & elderly. As well as the fast cats etc for rail & bus connections on the mainland. When you build a link to anywhere, that destination flourishes. cf Lion's Gate Bridge in 1938 built by the Guinness family from downtown Vancouver, Canada to the wilderness that was North and West Vancouver. That was 'madness' but look at it now. Essential for regeneration of struggling areas of the island by allowing affordable tourism and increased small business opportunities. Overpopulation is a concern however. Trade, freedom of people and goods, job prospects, encouraging tourism. As the future of the prisons on the island are threatened with closure this would have a huge impact on the economy. Therefore a fixed link would create the opportunity for people living on the island to seek employment elsewhere without restrictions on time. Also there would be opportunities for companies to come to the island without financial restrictions. From a personal point of view family visits would be so much easier. The island is in serious need of help. We need to be able to get off and on when WE want not when the ferries are able to run. I would rather have an "easytag" in my car and pay 10£-15£ a trip to pop over everyday rather than the prices and times we are forced to by the ferry companies. I want to be able to jump in the car and go to see my sister for coffee and not have to worry that I am going to miss my boat and have to wait an hour or more for the next one. I want to not have to be constantly clock watching when we are on the mainland so we don't miss the last ferry. I want a day trip to not be more time spent in the car waiting at the ferry than at the person I am visiting. I don't want to have to spend 60£ for the delivery of goods to my home because they see us as a non uk mainland address. The study will perhaps for once and for all establish how many residents are for or against. Although those who presently are negative about the fixed link will no doubt end up using the link if one were built. The island needs to move forward and the ones who don't want a tunnel need to think of the younger generation not just themselves. The ferry crossing is our road to the mainland so in my opinion it should be a free crossing or heavily subsidised as a road tax payer. If people in Portsmouth had to pay £50+ To drive to Southampton and back there would be riots. So why should we? The Island is dying, low wages and no tourism and the only people to blame are the ferry PAGE 294 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • companies for being allowed to rip people off and providing a shit service. Bring on the tunnel. "I have lived on the island for over twenty years & work for one of our utilities. In this time I have seen the island decline & what were once flourishing businesses fail. In an ideal world we would not need a fixed link but we do not live in an ideal world & the island is being held to ransom by the ferry services & financial institutions that own them. Even in an emergency the ferry services do not give any priority to our utilities & are demanding maximum fees from there commercial customers,NHS,police etc who are then having to pass this on to there customers. In times of financial stress we need to look at all avenues of maximising the islands revenue & whilst we are tied to the ferry services we will always be answerable to them & potentially in decline. A fixed link would free up the island & allow it to once again grow." Opportunities for young people to remain living here but better work opportunities on the mainland Lack of facilities at iow hospital. Boost visitors. Save a dying island! Help small businesses. Cheaper to visit mainland for islanders. I feel the Island needs help with its tourism and needs to become alive again during the winter. Older children also need a user range of activities, they're not all in to dancing, football or rugby!! Accessibility for tourism and business. It would reduce the difficulty and cost in getting here which must mean more people would come not just for tourism but also for business I pay £2500 a year to commute, it's so expensive and unreliable. There is no incentive for younger people to remain on the island and the only jobs available to them are care work because of the ageing population! The island will die without some investment. It will make it easy and more consistent to get on to and get off of the Island without being disrupted by the weather. It will reduce the cost of travelling to and from the island and therefore encourage much needed tourism that has dwindled to return. Mainly that weather and timetable won't control connecting to the island I travel to see family, older mother having been born and lived on the island till 17. I see the island with a lot of shut shops. I hope that a fixed link with mainland will enable more people to see what an amazing place it is. I've owned a fish and chip shop on the island for 17 years the trade is not what it was in the year 2000. I also worked on the island between 1990 and 2000 less and less visit this beautiful island in my opinion over inflated ferry prices Bring for trade to the island. Will allow family's to go to the mainland whenever they wish especially for emergency's etc. Also better life and job prospects for the kids when they get older. The ferry company's take to much of an advantage of people getting on and off the island (so expensive) to the extent that sometimes you feel a prisoner to them, it costs me more to get off the island via the ferrys then it does to get from Southampton or Portsmouth to anywhere on the mainland, you wouldn't let a private company own the main roads into London so why should a private company own the only way off and onto the island Hopefully it'll be cheaper than the ferries so we can visit family & friends more regularly. The island is on its economic knees. We must develop better mainland links to survive. the cost of the ferrys is to big by far , the island is dyeing and that is sad , i was born here , and have seen how the islan has gone down hill and not good , we need to do some thing , i think a fixed link , please Yes i feel that it is a Positive Direction for the Island, Young people getting wider Education options, Hotels would be busy with an increase of Private bookings rather than just coach companies that pay next to nothing therefore hotels not re-injecting money back into them, making them current and up to date. Self employed workers and Island business given the opportunity to operate successfully in the UK market. PAGE 295 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Please refer to previous statement. faster, cheaper access to decent healthcare. the main benefit for us is we could afford to see our family so much more often, which is virtually impossible on our budget with the criminal prices charged by the ferry companies. It will bring nothing but positivity to the island, with what is a very "cut off" place to live without having a fixed link. It will offer amazing expenditure from a vast array of new tourism ventures, possibility of new business to the island, much safer and healthier outlooks for healthcare towards an ever aging population on the island (easier access to more advance hospitals), much easier access for people to expand their education and employment by having an easier route towards these goals on the mainland, offering better wages and employment to people who otherwise could be unemployed, without spending a fortune on ferry crossings each day, and finally a positive look for businesses already on the island such as hotels and travel companies alike. To me, it's a no brainer. We are being held to ransom by ferry companies. the ferry services are far to expensive and restrictive. We needed a fixed link years ago to save the islands economy. Anything is better for than the ferries Broken service monopoly An alternative to the overpriced ferries would be either a bridge preferably or a tunnel although I probably won't see it in my lifetime. The Island needs work and some industry which is lacking due to the great expense of travelling to and from the mainland. "Ease of getting of the island. Encourage people to come here. " The staggering expense and time constraints of the ferries are strangling the islands economy in so many ways, tourism being the most obvious one. Businesses simply cannot compete against the mainland with the huge cost disadvantage which they must pay to import/export goods from the island. In the first instance if I needed an emergency operation not available at St.Marys hospital and the island is fog bound it leaves me very little option but to die, I think that's quite important to me. More options = more opportunities Be easier and quicker to get to and from mainland We are getting robbed and ill treated by the ferry companies who hold a monopoly over the island. "I feel this will offer the island great opportunity, we will have higher standards in education, so therefor school will Have to work harder to maintain a high ofsted grade. This will enable people to work more freely and earn more money on mainland and then bring it back to the island. Profit margins will improve for small business. I think having a fix link is a great idea." the cost of the ferried puts off holiday makers and it would be cheaper for people to get to the mainland for hospital treatment It's a no brainer for me. Fixed link or the Island will find it increasingly hard to attract investment. From my own personal experiences as an islander now living on the mainland, I have found the ferries expensive & inconvienient at times, plus adding up to an hour on my journey, also having spent time away, I've noticed a drastic decline in the islands high streets & seaside towns, not to mention how my life has changed for the better without having the restrictions of living on an island, I wish it had been easier to cross when I was younger, would have opened up a world of opportunities for me, also access to better healthcare/specialists for islanders Very selfishly can visit family. Cannot afford to sell on iow and buy a house on the mainland. Less cost, more reliable and would be used more often than boats, depending on charges each way. PAGE 296 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The island is dying from lack of well paid jobs and investment. It cannot rely on tourism as this is expensive.The must wake up to the fact that it is very poor and needs to be 21st century. If done properly the island won't be spoilt. People especially young people need more options for work, education everything really without having to move away from the island and family etc. People want to live here but limited jobs education etc. Makes that almost impossible and commuting currently is not really an option. Positive - the Isle of Wight needs to come back to life, tourism and businesses are failing because of the ferry costs. It's a beautiful island that's turning away amazing tourism prospects because of the huge ferry costs. Over £100 for a 2 day return is what I have just paid for a wedding I'm attending in August. That's crazy! The island is dying and needs this link to prosper. I can see the potential that a fixed link would bring to easing chronic recruitment and retention issues in health, social care and education. It will make the Island more accessible. Ok, that may bring in more cars, but cars bring tourists who are ready to spend their money. Also, the ferry companies adjust their prices too much. If there's anything on on the Island, such as Cowes Week, Isle of Wight Festival, etc., the ferry costs can go up to three figures, ONE WAY! That is NOT fair! Because it will bring businesses back to the island as it will be easier and cheaper to transport their goods here. It will also make it easier to commute to the mainland for both work and pleasure. Any form of permanent communication brings significant benefits that must not be ignored and that considerably outweigh the perceived disbenefits. Business, tourism and healthcare would be more accessible. The water between us and the mainland is what's holding the Island back, and due to high priced ferry fares we are losing such things as Bestival. I am absolutely fed up with ferry companies as to when I can afford to come and visit family. A fixed link would mean that I would be able to come over more often therefore would be spending more money on the island than the mainland. I feel tourists would be more inclined to visit again if the ferries weren't so expensive thus boosting the tourism trade. I also feel the islandbus services are struggling to cope at present therefore a cheaper route to Southampton may allow people to access specialist care more freely. Additionally in an emergency it would be much quicker getting to specialists in the mainland. I also think there is more career opportunities on the mainland therefore a fixed link would allow young people to access these as well as better quality education without the long commute times. This in turn will reduce the rate of unemployed on the island. Again this would mean more residents would be contributing financially to the goverment. I think positive but negative if not thought all of the above carefully. I appreciate we are an island but there are smaller islands which have main links to the mainland ie via tunnel or bridge. I do however understand all of te concerns that previously addressed. I live on mainland but commute to mainland twice a week. See my previous comments My family all suffer from disabilities and often require hospital trips to Southampton. In the past the financial and time cost of visiting them on the island using the ferry service has been a factor that has stopped me planning as many trips home as I would have liked. I feel a fixed link in the form of a tunnel would revolutionise the islands economy, something I have seen decline severely over the last decade I have lived on the mainland. At times o am ashamed even to call the island home, when friends say they'd like to go for a holiday or short break I struggle to find reasons they should go. Particularly if you can go elsewhere for less money. Help businesses and tourism as ferry costs cripple businesses and discourage people from visiting PAGE 297 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Because island trade for local stores would be better and cheaper to deliver. That's if this so called government or council don't rinse people price wise.... it's more freedom to leave and come back at ease More access to employment and drive up island wages. no more relying on the ferry cartels Try getting a ferry back to the island on a Sunday night in February, there's your answer Enable cheaper, quicker and undistrupted travel across the water for both sides. At present I am not looking at potential career advancement opportunities which are situated on the island as my relatives would not be able to afford to come over often and also that the education, medical and work opportunities are likely impacted by the lack of a link. By having a fixed link it is easier for both visitors and businesses to come to the island to visit or trade (therefore providing employment for island people). It will also provide the possibility of working on the mainland therefore improving the employment deficit. The ferries are too expensive and the hospital is overstretched so would be easier to get to other ones to take the demands off of St Mary's. The Island is dying and it needs regeneration but we can't get this when it costs too much to go off and come onto it. The island is failing in many area it will boost all areas needs to happen before we end up loosing everything. "We have family on mainland and find it increasingly hard to pay to travel and see children and grandchildren. Tourism would increase and bring more money to the Island. " The people living on the Isle of Wight can get better paid jobs on the mainland or wages on the Island would have to rise to match. Islanders would enjoy better health care services. A fixed link can only benefit the Island, the ferry prices are too expensive and unreliable. The Island needs to encourage business and tourists. A fixed link would make this happen "The island needs to rethink accessibility and to try new ways to open doors to bringing revenue over to save services and attract more working families to reside here! I commute daily and it's exhausting. We are moving off in 2 years and will be taking our £112000 per year salary send with us! The terrible ferry service and lack communication f accessibility means our family will be separated and health wise I cannot continue long term getting up at 4.30am and getting home at 7pm !!! " The island needs to lose its dependents on expensive and unreliable ferry service, Professionals are refusing to work on the Island due to lack of freedom of movement and poor education. The ferry companies don't be give us a fair deal in crossing the Solent. Their services are restrictive and do not run to timetable. There is no competition so the prices cannot be argued and customers aren't given a choice More freedom of movement not dependent on extortionate ferry prices and weather dependent. More choice of jobs for people on the island and more business and tourism for the island as a whole. Too many areas of the islands economic growth are being restricted by the poor transportation links to the island. Education and Healthcare fail to attract and retain the right levels of Human Resources. Weather and time delays on the current transportation links increase the postcode lottery and therefore should be considered as part of any review! This is needed to boost tourism, business and island jobs However would you get more crime. I travel to the Isle of Wight frequently for work and I feel that a fixed link would offer a lot of opportunity to some deprived island residents. The island is excellent but I hate having to pay extortionate ferry prices to get there PAGE 298 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It would be easier for people and businesses to come across to the island and hopefully this would breath new life into the island. Because trying to schedule travel and boat time can be difficult as ferry services are not always on time. Using a ferry service can take a lot of time out your day and sometimes can leave you stuck on the mainland or island if you are running late or unaware of ferry closures. Travel time for businesses will be shortened with a bridge, ensuring people are not missing out on the majority of their day Numbering not easy to use It is needed for the island to evolve. We have been a forgotten island in the past and a fixed link will allow us better access, support and the ability to improve our infrastructure. The cost of ferry travel prevents businesses coming to the island. With increasing healthcare being given on the mainland I have known people not accept treatment because of the time and cost. I think the cost of ferry travel puts people off visiting the island. I am not happy with the time and cost of ferry travel. "Ferry travel is restricted and costly. Adding 1.5 hours to any journey. Ferries are unable to continue in bad weather." Most people we know who leave the island site one reason, the boat. Namely the cost and the time. The current situation with the ferry services has to change therefore a fixed link will provide a more reliable link that will benefit the island as a whole in every industry. Because it is a modern and reasonable idea. Easier access to and from the island, less seclusion for young people and easier to travel to see family who aren't on the island without large ferry costs A fixed link is inevitable for the survival of the Isle of Wight in terms of leisure and tourism and small businesses moving forward. As time becomes ever more precious and the ferry companies hinting that crossing times will lengthen as they attempt to save money and use less diesel fuel, working people will vote with their feet and move off the Island leaving the population getting older and thus putting even more pressure on our already overstretched health services. 24 hour travel without weather/timetable limitations The ferries are strangling the island. They are too costly and unreliable. They have a knock on effect to every part of life on the island. A fixed link can help improve all those issues. Freedom of movement 24/7. Ferries are too expensive, too slow, too dirty, too crowded and don't sail often enough. "It would make it so much easier for residents to leave the island and Ed for mainland visitors to come over any time of the year for any reason at a fraction of the cost and without the weather hindering it. A lot of residents or visitors can not afford the steep ferry fares that are charged which limit their availability to leave or come to the island which in circumstances where they need to get to a hospital or relative on the island or the mainland is ridiculous in this day and age. The cost to get off the island is exctortinate and the ferry companies should be made to lower their charges. I personally think a fixed link either a tunnel or a bridge would hugely benefit this rapidly declining island all you need to do is look at the hotels and shops that are closing because tourism is dwindling out, the cost of the ferry is a large factor in people not visiting the island I just wish the council could see this or pull their blinkers up and actually take notice of what is happening to our island not just their island but the residents and visitors island alike! " the ferry services are making it more and more difficult as they cut back frequency. Keep on this way and I, along with others like me will have to move to the mainland. That cut £ spent on the island which causes less income which leads to more cuts. I think tourism would increase to the island, which is important for the economy. Any link, provided it is signed off as safe is an acceptable prospect PAGE 299 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Currently the island is prevented from large scale investment from business due to the restrictions and coats the ferry imposes. Having a sick child who must travel for regular appointments in southhampton at the huge ferry cost and missing said appointments when they dont run. I love that I live on an island but I'm fed up of lack of accessibility to mainland services and days out costing a fortune just because they involve a ridiculously overpriced ferry crossing. Aside from the fact they're expensive, the ferries rarely offer a time that suits me, especially as I live in the west Wight, and the car ferry service from YarmouthLymington is severely limited. Not only that, but I wouldn't be surprised if health care changes on the island, with people having to travel more to mainland hospitals for routine/elective treatments and I for one would be happier knowing I am not at the mercy of the ferries to be able to get to those appointments. I could say more but I'd just be ranting The Island needs to have easy access to and from the mainland so that island businesses have easier access to markets and staff. People also need to be able to live on the island and commute on and off without the constraints and costs of a ferry service. Visitors similarly need to get on to and off the island without needing to wait for a ferry service that is slow and expensive if you have to bring a car It can only be a positive thing for the island, a fixed link would make the island a more affordable destination for tourists which will help local businesses prosper as well as given island based businesses more opportunity to expand across to the mainland. There will be more opportunities for young people to seek employment in surrounding city's such as Portsmouth Bournemouth and Southampton with out having to spend a big chunk of their wages on extortionate ferry costs which are currently unregulated and spiralling out of control A fixed link would have huge advantages for the Island. The economy for the island would improve, unemployment would decrease, tourism would thrive, local businesses would able to grow, the council would have more money due to all these improvements. I think is essential for the future welfare of the Island. The ferries are too expensive and infrequent. It would open up a new world of job prospects for Islanders and might entice better standard of candidate for vacancies here on the Island too. Tourism to and from the island, stop excessive charges for deliveries etc etc. Overall there are too many positives to list....... It will be weather independent. It will not effect boats and will not have such an effect on the views There are No negatives. No waiting times to cross. No weather restricting crossing. No price fixing by ferry companies. This helps tourism. Business. Health. The islands evonomy can thrive with a fixed link, rather than being hindered by timetables The Island needs to change radically and crawl out of the Victorian Age into the 20th century (the 21st century can be dealt with later). "Positive because fixed link tunnel will allow access and egress at all times. Will bring prosperity to the island. A toll will also allow costs to be recouped over a period of time. A tunnel will also allow the island to remain an island (a piece of land surrounded by water). Also this will allow shipping movements to continue as they are now. " The ferry service is worse than it was on the 80's and too expensive with no concessions for Island residents. Without a fixed link this Island will die. To attract business to boost our employment rates and increase living standards for islanders. Provide quick easy access to mainland health care and education. So we're no longer held to ransom by ferry companies on when we can travel and how much it costs. Will be better for island business and tourism as well reducing the cost of travel to see family on main land I feel people will feel it is easier to get which would improve tourism in turn increase footfall, increase income, better living for the island PAGE 300 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Expense and unreliability of ferries. Times have changed and we need to change as an island or face poor healthcare poverty social exclusion etc I'm a caulkhead. I want a fixed link as I'm fed up with unreliable rip-off ferry services. The extortionate and unreliable ferrys are making life miserable for residents, putting off holiday makers and crippling the island economy Because the ferries are the most expensive I have ever encountered. It costs too much to visit family and friends. My son has to travel to Southampton hospital and it costs a fortune. Disabled people have to get out of the car to travel on the ferries, which is hard for them. The Island needs to move into the 21st century. Young people need more opportunities than our Island can provide. The ferries are outdated transport methods, which are environmentally unfriendly. Traffic would not jam up East Cowes and Fishbourne, because traffic would have a more steady flow. More people would visit and spend money on our Island, which they cannot afford to do with ferry fares so high. Overall, should be hugely beneficial the the Island economy, in attracting professional staff and in increasing consumer choice We need a fixed link for the longterm sustainability of the Island I think that if we have a tunnel between the island and the mainland it will help the island with tourism and business. Also you wont be held to ransom over the price of leaving the island and coming to the island by the current ferry companies. If dart-ford and hind head can make it work then why can the isle of wight do it. I think that if & when it happens you will see a big increase of business on the island. Reliance on ferry makes visiting people, medical appointments, commuting and holidays all more expensive and time consuming. Plus we want people to come and spend money so more people is good. Only the ferry companies lose out, everyone else wins. Concerns about crime or losing the island feel are ridiculous. As regular family visitors to out static caravan on the island the weekend challenge to arrive for a set time ferry can be stressful and the cost has risen significantly above normal inflation over the last 6 years Having a fixed link could possibly improve island tourism and open up more job opertunities. Cost of the two dominating ferry companies and its timetable This will make the island more appealing to live on as getting off the island to get to major cities would be easier, quicker and more reliable Ease of movement without being held to ransom. "Because employment on the island is abysmal, and the cost of ferry fares are high. If we have a fixed link it will improve island residents' employment prospects. Also travelling on and off the island is an expensive pain in the neck and adds at least an hour to journeys if you take into account waiting times at teminals. I love the island but am fed up with the time, the cost and the inconvenience of the ferries " "The ferry companies have a stranglehold on both the business and lifestyle of Island residents. Neither are paying enough towards the islands infrastructure and yet take a huge profit from it every year. It's past time to look to the future. I also believe there should be a rail service as part of the fixed link to join up what's left of the island line to the rest of the national rail service." Positive due to the ease that it would bring to travelling Unfortunately whilst i understand the objections to a fixed link it is the only way the island will attract much needed investment and development. It is up to the council to ensure they protect the fabric of the island as much as possible. It gives botn the younger and older generation to be able to get more jobs etc or to get to another hospital if need be to help our hospital up. They say crime will rise; but that will rise regardless of a bridge being there. PAGE 301 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I think we delude ourselves if we think we can expect high quality services and improvement in wealth and quality of live with Islanders able to access jobs without a link. I use all ferries regularly 3/4times a weekas my work is all over the south of England but ferries add at least 3 hours to my working day , often more. It us exhausting and stressful worrying if you will actually nake the ferries each time and then having a long cold wait when you miss it ir they are delayed . Current ferry services are the limiting factor in the development of the IoW. Too expensive and too inflexible. I want to be able come and go as I please. Anything that will boost tourism, the islands main source of income, should be considered. I have answered 'positive' as I think all options should be deliberated, wether that is cheaper ferries, alternate/ rival companies or indeed a fixed means of transport. Ferrys are too expensive and restrictive, particularly as someone who works and lives on the mainland now but was an island resident since birth. It makes it difficult/expensive to travel often to visit friends / family. "I think it will inprove investment in the island as access would be quicker and cheaper. The island has a very small population and so does not have investment from central government into infrastructure and essential services. We need to develop the island to improve it and not stay in the dark ages. You will not retain young families and people if the schools are not improved and the oppprtunites of jobs locally on the island or via the fixed link are not there. We have a huge divide between rich retired residents who do not need jobs and cheap services and poverty for some families. Towns are run down and not appealing to encourage tourism. Development and investment is essential for the island to thrive and a fixed link would support this in happening. " The Island can't recruit teachers/doctors. The ferries are becoming increasingly unreliable and they are expensive. The prices are too high for people to visit family/friends or for our young people to commute for work on the mainland & there's not much in the way of work prospects on the Island. "I'd love to move to the IOW but my IT business requires frequent and quick trips to the mainland. My parents also looked to retire on the isle but because of the cost & the reduction in ferry services, its not viable." Work, holidays, emergency services, Better access to health care, and jobs It would encourage more tourism, and enable residents to go on holiday, without paying an extortion and relying upon the rubbish ferry companies. I still see some ferry routes flourishing, as some will find it closer and more special to travel by ferry. The IOW is slowly dying and we need this for the future, particularly for young people. speed and accessibility to emergency services and healthcare will increase the services and safety to IOW residents The Isle of Wight suffers from not being permanently connected to the mainland. It suffers high unemployment, poor business links, poor ferry services, high transport costs, social services, health and safeguarding are bad, and education is below par. A fixed link would help to alleviate at least some of these, so surely it can only be positive, unless you want the Island to continue to have these problems. Getting off and on the Island is currently both expensive and time consuming and also subject to the dictates of the weather and until a fixed link is available the Island will continue to fail to provide meaningful jobs forcing the best and brightest of our children and grandchildren to find employment on the mainland. "The island is dying. It's so expensive to visit family and friends on either side of the solent. I lived on the island for 10 years and moved back to the mainland for better work prospects etc. PAGE 302 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Everyone moans about the buses being so expensive and if there was a fixed link maybe it would be viable for some competition. " no matter if it is a tunnel or a bridge a fixed link could only benefit the island for business's / tourism / island residents who wish to go visit family on the mainland plus it should be a step forward in bringing the island up to date and join the 21st century "Ferries call the tunes and price wise people are desuaded from coming over which means we don't see relatives as much as should be possible " With increasing unemployment it would be a quicker means of travel for commuters and would allow people to easily commute daily. More accessibility for those with families either side of the water. Stop the island economy dying a death. If the fix link isn't built VERY soon the island will just wither and died due to the youth levering the island to find work, leaving a majority OLD AGED awaiting to died. So long as traffic management is managed properly. The Island infrastructure will not cope with an unlimited volume of vehicles. Improved access to the island generally and in bad weather. Over reliance on ferry companies only concerned with profit. If healthcare facilities are to be moved to the mainland, then there should be easier access. Makes Isle of Wight products easier to access markets and cheaper transportation costs A fixed link would enable island company's to reach a larger customer base. With a possible cheaper crossing service would also help the island businesses be more competitive with mainland ones. It will also make searching for employment on the mainland more feasible for island residents To bring some much needed life to the Island,also for access to mainland hospitals,ferry services are rubbish and expensive,easier for our young peoples education/unis etc. It's pretty obvious why the Island needs a fixed link. Stupid, unregulated ferry prices controlled by offshore companies in it only for the profit. Education standards are awful, mainland treatment needs a fixed link badly for patients, businesses such as Bestival would have stayed had it not been for the ferry prices. No brainer. The rod tunnel is the only practical option as a bridge link would be a major hazard to shipping. "I have lived on the island all of my life and am saddened at the rate of decline in recent years. I understand that a lot of small seaside towns are also suffering due to financial pressures but the island has the potential to be so much better. If a family on holiday drove to Southampton and were asked to decide whether they want to pay £150 to take a 1 hour ferry to a rundown island or turn right and drive 40 to Bournemouth I know what they will decide. Bournemouth has nothing we haven't got apart from good transport links and the investment that comes with it. The link has to be built before it becomes a total lost cause of rundown wasteland. " I believe the Island without a fixed link will continue it's decline - businesses closing, festivals and other events moving to the mainland, unemployment, poor education, and limited hospital care will all continue to worsen without a solution to stop ferries holding residents to ransom and keeping it cut off from the mainland. We would love to move to the Island and bring our businesses with us but we are put off by the inconvenience of ferry travel to the mainland and access to healthcare I have family on. It's sides. I find it a huge expense to bring my car over and to pay for my boat ticket for the last 3 1/2 years of commuting. Makes the island more accessible which will boost its economy and ensure it does not continue to be neglected and in a state of disrepair. PAGE 303 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • There would be tremendous commercial and social benefits The island is getting worse each year with poverty due to lack of work,education and health care are also struggling, ferry prices are scandalous, being held prisoner at the wish of the ferry companies is a horrible feeling, a fixed link will bring more money to the island, will give islanders more choice for work etc and I can see the island being better all round, I would be happy to pay £20 return using a fixed link by way of a toll, the island desperately needs it and asap! Families could get together more often, Tourists would have easy access and would spend money on the island, the islanders would no longer feel trapped as they could visit the mainland without being held to ransom by the ferries. THE FERRIES ARE NOT RELIABLE AND TOO COSTLY SICKNESS AND ORDNANCE THIS WEEK DISRUPTED THOSE OF USE TRYING TO GET TO HOSPITALS. WITH A POOR RECORD AT ST MARYS AND MORE PATIENTS HAVING TO TRAVEL A FIXED LINK IS A MUST The ferry times are not frequent enough and they are unreliable. The cost of extortionate. I feel strongly that the island needs easy access to alternative healthcare providers and employment and I don't feel that we will ever be able to achieve this if we have the ferries as our only route off the island. Improved crossing time and easy access to mainland Realistically the island is no more unique than say the New Forest. It has had is day and the only way forward for business and moving forward is a fixed link. The ferry companies work hard to make the "voyage" indispensable but as communication, travel options off the island improve it makes the whole trip a complete waste of time, the only advantage is to make money for wightlink etc. Unfortunately there are a large number of holiday home owners with property here and an enormous elderly population that do not have to earn a living that keep this island in the middle ages. Young people need to work in proper jobs not seasonal, and earn decent wages without having to spend a lot of their income on commuting. I think it can only be beneficial as will bring more business to the Island Much easier, faster and cheaper access to the mainland. I used to live on the island and moved off because I have a child and taking him on days out on the mainland were always hit with a £70 "get off the island fee" (ferry charges) before you could even budget in what you wanted to do. Tourism and business need a boost the economic downturn across the island can be attributed to the stranglehold of the rising prices of the ferry companies and should be looked into More opportunity foe Islanders to commute to work, and to go to social events at a more reasonable price. Would also bring more tourism to island. Although currently expensive to cross, my main concern is the time wasted travelling slowly on a boat. "too many shops closing. charge a fixed price like cars £30. lorrys £50. supermarket lorrys £100. cyclist £10. would pay for its self. " The Island needs to move forward into the modern age and open its doors to the opportunities that will become available if it had greater links to the mainland. The current situation with travel is unacceptable and should be addressed to improve the lives, employment and make additional health care easiliy available to Isle of Wight residents, and to incourage tourism to bring more business to our economy Better for business and tourism and to make it easier for transport to and from the mainland Opportunities for businesses employment and education. Big impact on island economy and sustainability. Negative islanders seem to lack capacity and capability to think about the bigger picture, too much negativity and fear which is unfounded and narrow minded PAGE 304 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • As the prices are just far to high on current ferry services and always will be. I believe the island cannot prosper without a fixed link, cost of ferries is prohibitive for business, healthcare and tourism The Solent will no longer be a barrier for progression and development on the island and it will show the ferry companies that financial greed will be their downfall The IoW has a great deal to offer in terms of tourism and business but is held back by the cost and speed of connectivity. Its close physical proximity to the mainland should be accompanied by more efficient and low cost access. This can only help islanders and mainlanders. The Isle of Skye has lost none of its appeal from having a fixed link and neither would the IoW. A bridge/tunnel is long overdue. We travel regularly to the island and the ferry costs are ridiculously exorbitant. The reason for this being that the ferry companies have no competition therefore can charge what they like. For example I travelled as a foot passenger a couple years ago when it was the festival and was charged a lot more to make the crossing. When I questioned the staff they said "we can charge what we like". Pure greed. I was an island resident born and bred for 48 years. Ferries are so expensive unreliable and a hinderance to regular travel to/from Island Encourage tourists to visit the island, reduction in freight costs, better access to mainland emergency services, not weather dependent Ferries are a rip off, slow, do not run regularly, effected by bad weather Lower cost flexibility in travel and business potential We need an alternative to the high prices of the ferrys. The boats are too expensive The ferries are strangling the life out of the Island! Freedom of movement ... I don't see why we should we should be held to ransom by the ferry company's Absolutely positive, with failing schools, losing healthcare facilities with hardly any hospital bed available due to not being able to provide social care at home. Failig tourism numbers due to lack of investment, but mainly due to the cost and inconvenience of an out of date service to the Island. The island desperately needs a fixed link ... I think it would help the island. And islanders Price or getting across is high, stops people coming Reduce cost of travel to/from IoW compared to Wightlink ferries "The amount of money you have to spend to get across the Solent is atrocious compared to the price of other ferry crossings world wide. A fixed link would also save a lot of time. Why are other countries like Denmark or China able to build fixed links( bridges or tunnels) which are far longer than the fixed link from the Isle of Wight to the mainland would be in a short amount of time ? It seems in Great Britain you hardly ever get any improvements done. I have been living on the island for 22 years and would welcome a fixed link. " Ease of access to mainland for better healthcare, social activities, participation in sport & the increase in visitors to the island that would bring additional jobs & prosperity. Positive as it would allow 24 hour freedom of movment which in turn would allow the iow to compete once more as a holiday destination and give the residents of the iow more opportunities to better there careers. Would also prevent the serge of traffic on to the iow causing traffic chaos! And may well encourage the beastival to return to the iow as charges to get to and from wont be hiked to unreasonable levels. Options should be considered and presented. An open mind should be kept until options have been investigated It should be cheaper! You do not have to prebook. You could just nip across and visit ikea. Hospital visits to Southampton would be easier. Not waiting to cross eg 30 minutes PAGE 305 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • before. No worries about missing a ferry. But I belive there will still be a place for the high speed passenger ferries. It would make it far easier to get on and off the Island, and would help tourism, and also the hospitals, as it would be affordable to get on and off the island, which at present it is a total rip off by the ferry companies. To give more benefits to people living on the island. Increase aspirations and improve education by making it easier to get better teachers. Increase choice of travelling to the mainland so the ferries have to be more competitive. I now consider the island as dying, a tunnel and the media attention to building a tunnel will bring the island to the attention of the uk not only for tourism but easier transportation for businesses and commuters. Also I believe it will make settling on the island a more viable option for younger people. It would improve life greatly for people who travel to the mainland regularly for business, holidays, visiting family and healthcare. I believe it will also have a very beneficial effect on the local economy and the employment prospects of young people who will no longer have to leave in order to find work. I think it would bring in more tpurism and business which would benefit the island A fixed link will help the island to prosper and grow and attract more business to the island and greatly increase tourism. Trying to run a business from the Island, although I have managed to do it, is very difficult with the ferry times being so limited. I employ people on the Island but also people on the mainland. Having a fixed link or ferries that ran throughout the night would aid businesses to make more money and create more jobs for Island residents. Better access on and off the island, quicker, cheaper. Improved investment opportunities, job creation, competitive tourism, flexibility and choice for NHS, Emergency Services, etc. I think the ferry fares put off many firms from setting on the Island, also tourism must be affected by the extra costs of Ferries in the high season and holiday periods. Also the lack of late cats from Portsmouth to Ryde. The island needs to be more accessible to secure its future and to give future generations the chance to escape poverty and poor social status. There are very little oppourtunitoes here for education and careers. A fixed link would offer more people the chance to commute in turn providing a better economy for the island The islands economy, tourism, businesses, jobs, healthcare, education etc are all suffering from very expensive and erratic ferry services. The future is very poor for the island and its next generation unless we can turn the economy and job prospects around. The only way that can happen is with a fixed link, a reliable low cost link would enable / attract good quality employees and business to come here easily, it would also provide easy commute and transport goods. Young people cannot wait to leave the Island and what is keeping them here, whole generations of Islander have left, a fixed link would build a greater sense of community and extended families. Reviews have shown time and time again around the world, the better the extended family support and community spirit the better the health, welfare and lower crime rates. I think a reasonably priced fixed link service to the mainland will promote increased tourism, support local businesses and improve potential for Islanders to commute to work/study on the mainland without the restrictions of ferries. Cost is a major issue when commuting for work or pleasure, so if this can be reduced it would increase footfall to the Island and improve long term prospects for all ages. Price keeps going up and flexibility on timetables To bring more opportunities to Island people is so many ways. Employment, education, healthcare, environment, tourism almost everything. only negative would be increased traffic flow and road maintenance. The island is struggling in so many areas including education, health care and tourism we need this to survive and thrive as an island I think overall it would benefit the island and the young people PAGE 306 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ferry companies are too unreliable, expensive and dated we are in the 21St century it's about time the island caught up!!!! "Increased flexibility/convenience for solent crossers mitigates existing crossing risk of being affected by weather increased potential to bring trade and tourism to the Island" Cost and time using ferries very restrictive. "To stop the Isle of Wight being held to ransom by the ferry companies. To enable me to choose when I wish to travel and not be at the behest of Wightlink & Red Funnel with their all too frequent cancellations for ""operational reasons""" I have answered positively because he future development of the island is amassive advantages a fixed link would bring. Also due to having to get more healthcare in Southampton a fixed link would make all the difference for time and urgency. Coach trips from other parts of the country will start to rise again as costs will be less. Our security will also improve, as mainland resources and would almost be readily available. Protecting/ boosting the island's economy and improving accessibility for island residents. Easy and inexpensive travel between Island and mainland. "A fixed link will bring jobs and services to the island and will prevent the monopolies of the ferry companies and offer choice to residents regarding healthcare and education. A fixed link would improve health and education as the professionals required to increase standards would be more likely to come here. " The iow will soon die in terms of tourism health business and education if we can't commute with ease. The current situation cannot continue. I am a very regular visitor to the island (mainly as a tourist) and I have spoken to a number of people who have stopped visiting due to the ferry monopoly. I also have friends and relatives on the island who find employment on the island is simply not of a good enough quality. We left the island when I was 8 specifically because of the lack of prospects on such a beautiful place. I note that ferries or tolls are not used in central London. I wonder why? For all the above reasons, but mainly for access to specialist health services for all ages. The current cost of travel is unreasonably high. By connecting the island to the mainland we increase job prospects, more skilled people would be interested in living here as they can commute more easily, businesses will be more interested in investing on the island due to better access to wider markets, many other reasons. In the world today we need better access for jobs and healthcare and for people to want to invest in our communityx Having worked in industry on the Island for over 40 years and also having served as a school governor for 12 of those years, I experienced countless occasions where the ferries were a barrier to recruiting good people to the Island. The effects of that are now quite visible with the poor quality of local council, health, etc, services and the declines in our industrial and tourist sectors. Better transport to the island is vital to its future. I don't drive to the mainland very often because it is too hard to hit the slot allowed for getting on your booked ferry. I'm also concerned about the lack of youth employment opportunities on the IOW and believe a fixed link would open up mainland jobs. I am from the IOW, but now live on the mainland. My parents and family still live on the island. The ferry adds hours to what would otherwise be a simple journey back to see them, and the cost is prohibitive. I simply cannot afford to see my family as often as I should. In this modern day and age a fixed link is required for easy access to the mainland. The Island remains disadvantaged in business, health, tourism without one. The cost of the PAGE 307 • • • • • • • • • • • • ferries is way too high and this prevents lots of people using them regularly (including me). We need to enter the 21st century. As an island resident and frequently working on the mainland the ferries/hover are expensive and unreliable. We have also missed a flight due to last minute ferry times changing due to one reason or another. The cost of the ferries is also crippling tourism and makes it difficult for mainland hospital visits. Other islands have survived very well with fixed links. More job opportunities, alot more tourism opportunities, the Isle of Wight hospital may have help from the mainland hospitals and can easily be accessed through a tunnel. More things for families to do and get home with no worries. There's no chance of getting stuck on the mainland and you will not be restricted to the boat timetables. There are many more reason's for why I believe a fixed link would be a huge asset to the island. And those who keep saying move away if you want a link are ridiculous. I moved away and came back, I love it here but I would live a fixed link!! Please please please make this happen!!!!!! It will facilitate better links to the mainland which will have significant business, health care and tourism benefits It massively effects the accessibility of the Island and affordability of getting here - and off! It will be excellent for tourism, business and for education. Not to mention that the ferries will no longer hold the monopoly and be able to charge extortionate figures to those who can't necessarily afford it. It's time for change, it's time to challenge the norm. The cost associated with getting on and off the island is abhorrent. "Through island will always be an island. However from increasing ferry prices and a drop in ferry crossing has made it impossible for people to travel and get off. My family would benefit from this as my partner needs work on the mainland that isn't available here." People say this will bring trouble over here from where I work I see that is already here, for the Islands long term future and sustainability there needs to a fixed link. With the NHS crisis this year where can the Island defer patients to? To encourage health, education and other professionals to the Island - recruitment is very difficult. Any link will be better then relying on ferry companies that cash in on the monopoly they have us on us. The cost of the ferrys puts off a lot of tourists and businesses , the islanders feel they are being ' held to randsom' by the costs , hopefully a tunnel or even bridge would be a lot cheaper to cross and not at different prices for different times of day, it may attract more business to the island if access was easier . But I doubt if I'll see it come to pass in my lifetime. Travel to main land so much easier . no waiting for ferries much cheaper . cost of visiting family on mainland cheaper . Better for families with children. Better for job opportunities. A good example is the bestival moving from island. Further access to and from the mainland would encourage more visitor's and help tourism which has struggled for some time. Ferry costs can be expensive and this puts people off coming to the island. The cost of freight would be reduced and this would benefit local business. The hugely popular Bestival has been lost this year. It put the Island on the map for a while. A fixed link would provide potential to develop future successful events. Speaking to visitors in Ryde last August who were over to enjoy the Ride Out, I heard many of them complaining of the increasing cost of the Ferries. The Island is and has always been a place of tourism and of course agriculture and beauty. Without good reliable affordable links to the mainland, tourism will continue to decline. People will simply go elsewhere. Also, many young people who live here struggle to find employment even seasonally now because of a dip in tourism. Links to the mainland would greatly benefit islander's in terms of employment. PAGE 308 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The Island needs to come into the 21st century, for the sake of the younger generation. There is no decent jobs, the NHS is getting worse and socially there is nothing for them to do. It's very depressing! "Will save having to wait for a ferry, especially if you have just missed one. And will save us getting ripped of with the prices. " Would be far better then having to use ferry Mainland access is to restrictive and expensive I have could commute to jobs on the mainland. As I work at the hospital I am restricted in my career progression if I want to stay living here. Also we have a huge problem getting high skilled staff at the hospital as the commute is too expensive. We can't get consultants and have to share the consultants from the mainland. This means we only get 1 maybe 2 days cover per week. We also struggle to recruit GPS, nurses, microbiologists, surgeons, paramedics... the list goes on. By continuing to pretend the island is not suffering not being a part of England is a joke, we will not be invaded as some think but prosper from affordable tourism & bring the island back some life for future generations Need to give talented IOW residents opportunities other than stagnation or move away. It would encourage younger people to stay and come back to the island to live and businesses to come to the island. To stop congestion and waiting times at ferry terminals Because the ferries are not regular enough, far to expensive, unreliable and costing the island money through business, tourism etc I think it would be good for the island and tourism. Healthcare is poor on island so fix link would make everything more accessible. Ferries are not a solution in a modern world to an Island with over 140,000 people. Ferry reliance is stiffling every aspect of Island life - economic, social, educational and health are all impacted and difficulty in attracting quality applicants to staff and head up key bodies servicing the Island means things are getting worse year on year. Economic factors. The islands dying a fixed link would bring a more prosperous economy no restrictions with looking for a job off the island without the worry of cost of ferry's and their unreliability easy access for the people that can't find jobs on island ... There is no employment Only be good for an ageing population with inadequate social , health and education provision .encourage recruitment and improve retention of eirkforce "the island is dying.. boat times andcosts restrict us off and onto the island. it causes increase in delivery costs.. and full holds us to ransom as to days out. and i think it will bring in more tourism for the island to. more teachers and healthcare staff.. with the ability to drive to work instead of moving.. or paying and relying on boats who cancel often. if we dont the island wil die. fed up hearing if u wanna work on mainland go live there.. why should youngsters who wish to work have to move away from their birth place as wages are low house prices high. forced up by peeps retiring and holiday homes. those who wish to earn good money to live should also have right to live here. andnot jsut those who come here because its safe and they want to get away from rat race. which the island will not become..the traffic wont be worse than is now. it be ligher flow instead of every hour bung up in places.. i refuse to accept in this day and age that a boat company can tell me when i can come and go.. and that i have to pay not a fixed rate for cost form a to b and back again. but a rate that is high for number of says etc.. when all they are providing is a link from a to b and the cost should be same no matter how long im gone for inbetween them crossings " Living on the island held me back as a teenager. PAGE 309 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I feel it would bring more tourism and business to the island as it is more accessible, and for frequent travellers like myself more flexibility especially with having kids. Plus seeing as alot of hospital appointments are now on the mainland this would make this more accessible for everyone. It would encourage more big companies to want to set up here Anything would be better than being held to ransom by ferry companies with extortionate prices I have was born on the Island and have lived and worked here all my life. The rest of the world has become more accessible for work and leisure and the IOW should be the same. Our children are encouraged to go to university and have greater aspirations for their futures we need the same ethos here. Good for tourism on the island, feel it would increase the amount of tourists coming over to the island The ferry service is unreliable and only propped up because of the jobs it will bring. This overlooks the fact that easy access to the island would make much more business viable and inherently provide more jobs and a general higher standard of living for many people. However, I firmly believe that this project will only work if it comes direct from central government or Europe. This is due to my experience of the isle of wight council, who tend to be disorganised and uniformed (or willfully ignorant) I think it would hugely benefit the Island businesses and tourism, it would certainly be a huge financial benefit to those of us who have to pay the crazy ferry prices. Tourism has been in decline for over a decade and fixed link provides an affordable solution to unemployment As a home owner who has to work away due to the limitations the island has to provide employment,without a fixed link I am more likely to consider moving to the mainland permantly than to ever consider commuting on a daily basis rather than Monday to Friday due the the unreliability,cost and general appalling service the ferries especially Wightlink provide. The island was a great place to holiday when I was a child,now the ferry service and cost would stop me ever recommending anyone to use them for any reason. Alternative, affordable routes are vital Make travel to and from island easier and more convenient for residents and visitors. The island is fading away we need investment, tourism and accessability all of which will be acheived with a fixed link "It would give more opportunity for people to commute to the mainland for work but to stay living on the island and spending their money there. Many people i know (including myself) although being born and raised on the island, have been forced to the mainland away from family, friends and just the simple pleasure of island life due to the time and cost involved in using the ferrys every day to commute. Its just not realistic." "I think as times move on if there's not a feasible way to access the mainland (fixed link or not) and likewise the island, we'll begin to alienate ourselves from the rest of the country. More industries may wish to setup on the island if transport is easier to manage and costs lowered. More tourists may want to visit the island more often if they don't have the ferry costs to consider. It shouldn't be cheaper to visit a different country than to visit an island in the same country. I shouldn't have to leave a concert or event early just to make a ferry that may or may not be running." We need a fixed link!!!!!! An alternative to the overpriced inhibited ferry services I have been an advocate of the idea for over 30 years. As a previous shop owner in Ryde High Street & also a Hotelier in Ryde until retirement we have always been at a PAGE 310 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • disadvantage to mainland businesses because of the unreliable & expensive crossing to & from the Island. "The access limitations that ferry services provide is having a serious detrimental effect on the prosperity and future of the island. Not only are ferry services unreliable and infrequent at times, the cost is prohibitive to many, especially if travellers are unable to choose when to travel. The cost for holidaymakers is having an impact on tourism numbers and overall spend on the island, with many preferring to holiday elsewhere. Additionally, the lack of quick, affordable and reliable access is having a detrimental impact on the ability to attract and retain quality staff in the public sector, in education and healthcare in particular. Education services, especially at secondary level, are poor, and the hospital is struggling to cope with anything but essential services. Whilst this is not unique to the island, what is different is that patients suffer many more obstacles to reach alternative services. This is unacceptable and has to change or it will cost lives. Whether you support the concept of a fixed link or otherwise, an updated independent feasibility study has to be carried out as a matter of urgency." People say if you live on an island it's a choice. I have a son on the island and I won't go without seeing him just to get a better job and I won't move him away from his mother. If there wasnt the extortionate ferry prices, I would consider commuting all over the country, but with the ferrys is not feasible and almost twice as costly. The island is too cut off. There are certain times where you can't get off the island and that's ridiculous At the moment it is cheaper to go to Spain for a break. I would visit family and friends on the island much much more If I don't have to get a ferry. Time consuming and expensive. Island businesses would also benefit from new customers. Being able to travel off the island with your car without paying £40-£100 , removing at the minimum a hour of any journey especially helpful in the mornings . Freedom to leave the island when the ferrys aren't running or are in reduced service I.e hours from 24:00 06:00 hrs . Quick and cheap travel to the mainland possible at all hours ! Decrease inequalities As someone who works in the music industry in Southampton I think it's a shame that Bestival moved due to transport links and high ferry prices. I also know a number of musiscians on the island and I believe culturally it will really help with acts being able to gig off the island and new ones come onto it. It will also support niche industries on the island like music that would otherwise cause residents to leave as it is unfeasible to run certain companies on such a small island. By not creating a more economical link between the island you are going to force all bright minds and entrepreneurs to leave to the mainland or be muted. I have been coming to the Island for 40 years as my in-laws lived there. The cost of visiting when they were in hospital were phenomenal!! A bridge/tunnel would have made our journey easier as we wouldn't have had to book ferries and rely on them running in bad weather !!! Ferry are too much money Greater job opportunities whilst still living on the island. Better for local economy with housing prices, tourism, etc It'd bring in more tourists, make companies more likely to consider placement on the island, cheaper travel on/off the island, would allow for poorer children to go to school elsewhere considering education on the island is one of the lowest rated in the UK. It provides more opportunities, easier transport and money saving to the mainland and better access to health carw The island is dying-tourism and buisness closing, no one comes on holiday here due to it costing so much to get here It will bring more tourism to the island, increasing the socio-economic climate. It will create more access to jobs on the mainland whilst living on the island, increasing money PAGE 311 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • spent in island businesses. With less young qualified people choosing to live on the island due to limited specialist jobs, and more retired people choosing to move to the island, the socioeconomic climate of the island is decreasing. This should not be happening in today's society where globalisation is supposed to be maximising prospects. We can change the island's income whilst still maintaining aspects of the isolation many enjoy, as we are still, and always will be, an island. "The island needs cheaper, easier and more reliable access to and from. Tourism is dying because it's cheaper to goto Spain for a weeks holiday than it is to spend a week on the island. I spend around £2,500+ a year on ferry crossings by car/van for work. " something has to be done to bring more business to the Island to invest for the future.Ferries are not good enough and too expensive. would prefer a bridge. To bring the island up to date. Ridiculous ferry prices & timetables. More opportunities & easier access to better education & health care. A small book could be written giving positive and negative reasons for the overall future of the Island. In my opinion the future is today not tomorrow and a fixed link will bring many varied opportunities to our the young, to our business entrepreneurs and to all working age people here. It will also help to ensure our National health service, Social care services and Education services will be better able to share the rich resources of man/woman power available here and elsewhere. If there are any significant and meaningful reasons against a fixed link I have yet to hear or read them. Easier movement to mainland, more cost effective as well. Sometimes waiting an hour or 30 minutes for a ferry is not convenient. If you're travelling on the car ferry you have to set off earlier then you need to to get there & queue! We won't be trapped into paying out of the neck to cross the water More people will come and visit, tourism will increase which will give council money so they can finally fix the roads! I use the ferry services frequently and am sad to say I am often let down by them. I feel the "services" have deteriorated considerably in recent years, the result now being that I and my family find it extremely restrictive to live on the Island. Im an island resident and i see the island is getting run down every wheres closing and nothing to do, the ferrys rip us off and it takes to long to cross and its a hassle to book, gettingba fixed link will boost jobs on and Of the island, its only the rich who dont want the fixed link because its there friends who run the ferries but no one knows that People can find more work on the mainland as there are not enough jobs in the island to go round . And it would bring more tourists to the island as it would be easier and cheaper and more appealing, which in turn will support smaller island business . Increased connectivity to the mainland means potential for improvement of Island services and better accessibility to mainland services, in particular Health Care, as a lot of care is not available on the island. I believe it would make business, tourism and healthcare easier to access both ways if there was a much cheaper alternative to the somewhat expensive and it would be 24 hrs a day My Husband and I and our family are all Islanders, born, raised and lived here all our lives, we can see that our Island is in decline and that it is becoming a retirement Island as we are losing our young who are forced to move away and seek work on the mainland. To enable our young to travel without hindrance of ferry timetables and hopefully a lot cheaper would be the best benefit that the tunnel would bring to our Island. Hopefully large businesses would also bring work to the Island too. We would love to be able to travel to the mainland without being tied to the times of ferry's, always keeping an eye on your watch to ensure you've left enough time to catch your return ferry, especially with the last ferry from Lymington being 9.05 p.m! As I'm disabled I do have discounted fares on Wightlink Ferries, but it is still on average about £43 for a day return to the PAGE 312 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • mainland which is just so expensive. We love our Island and have always lived here and hate to see it in such decline. Makes travel more convenient. Will boost tourism, business links and will benefit working and student commuters This island needs tourism, the council and ferry companies do all in their power to kill this island off. The healthcare here is appalling, from personal experience having to pay £40+ every week for ferries and losing a whole days pay to go to for 10 minute appointments once a week is bloody ridiculous! As for the people that say "well move off the island then" I would if someone wants to pay the costs! The Island is struggling because of accessibility costs.It needs to modernise to survive Employment and social flexibility. However wildlife crime and the environment should be thoroughly investigated There needs to be a cost effective way to get businesses, industry and tourists to our island. It would enable many people with health problems to reach further hospitals with ease, i believe it would benefit the economy of the island as more tourists would visit. I do think that the tunnel could be charged but anything cheaper than the ferries people will be willing to pay. "A fixed link would enable people to travel to and from mainland freely. Ferry prices and times of ferries, plus weather conditions, breakdowns, etc, extremely inconvenient and expensive. " It will ebable stress free commuting between the island and mainland at a reasonable cost at any time of the day There has to be a faster, easier and cheaper way to reach the island. Having lived there before, as a child and an adult I can see the value . I have family on the island and it would be a lot easier to visit on a fixed link. The amount of time spent working in delays really makes working and studying days beyond long. Wages will be driven up and more employers will have to improve standards. Education standards would rise more quickly. Health would result in mor choice higher standards much less locus so more doctors will to work here. Opens the doors to businesses opening/being sustained on the island by removing unessecary cost of transporting raw materials/products/staff on ferry services. Also raises accessibility for those living on the island but already forced to work on the mainland, it heightens the chances of them continuing to live on the island and therefore paying into the islands infrastructure. Alongside all of this students and parents will have the opportunity to attend/send their children to schools and colleges on the mainland thus removing the monopoly effect we get on the island which drives down standards according to ofsted inspections. Lastly the monopoly effect on the cost of products in shops would be reduced because of better access to the mainland and the removal of extra costs to businesses in the ferries. A fixed Link would make so much sense in this day and age, plus it would improve the lives of everyone living on the island, having the option to just drive somewhere diffferent, to be able to find a job without the expense of commuting on the ferry, to be able to study at uni and not have to live away from home, to not need a helicopter to get to a big hospital. "I was born on the island, I loved living there, I miss it all the time and it's where my family and friends still are. Unfortunately I can't live there and have a career at the same time, I work out of London Heathrow and live on the south coast as I couldn't afford to use the ferry service in my commute and this is the closest I could remain to my family, For me personally, a link would mean I could move home again. I'm 26 and I moved away because I needed more from my life and from the jobs The island was offering me, Not everyone has that confidence to leave their families/ friends and everything they've ever known. I was speaking with my friends recently who all still live on the island and I was PAGE 313 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • really saddened by how trapped, stuck, powerless and depressed they feel, but I can relate as I was once in the same position. You are stuck... constantly being limited to what you can do, I couldn't go for a night out or go to Southampton to see something in the mayflower, a meal in the new forest or gig in Bournemouth or brighton as the ferrys would stop before midnight and you would need a hotel, so any plans for a night out are immediately costing a fortune before you've begun. So let's write it off and go to sandown pier, the cinema or bowling again... The affect for the island? It would make a huge change! I worked in tourism based jobs on the island until recent years and its struggling, many families I would speak to would say to me they wouldn't be coming again as it was costing more and more each year. Have you seen the prices of ferrys in the summer? It's disgusting, it's one thing charging tourists that but island residents have to pay the same as well? Working for an airline I work with new colleagues every week and when I tell them I'm from the island 100 percent of the time I am told how beautiful they think it is and how they love going there but how expensive it is to get over. Especially if you're just going for the day with family. Look at Newport high street. It's empty shop after empty shop. I came home last week during the mainlands half term. It was busy here with families and small children everywhere. Unfortunately none of them got the ferry to the island with me and I walked through a ghost town. I personally feel the day trippers alone that the link would give access to would have such a positive impact on businesses and employment on the island. You're even now losing island festivals aswell as its too expensive to bring all the equipment over? These are events that the island needs that it's known for and they are another thing that's being stamped out by the ferry company's. I do worry about the future of the island and I think a link would be the best possible plan for it. " Because there is nothing to do on the island especially for the young generation. The shops are not great. The prices of petrol are high. It takes forever to have anything delivered from the mainland. There are no jobs. Ferries are a rip off. And the schools are useless. More employment possibilities for island residents. Easier to access the island and mainland respectively. Ferry companies can stop scamming residents and visitors. Islanders/mainland people are held to high costs crossing the Solent. Highest in the world for smallest distance. Fixed Link, use a toll, charge one price no matter what time day/night, school/bank holidays. Cheaper going abroad than coming to island. Good for tourisum. It would always be available to use no waiting time, cheaper to cross. Currently ferry company's have somewhat of a monopoly over travel to/from the island and therefore charge whatever they see fit to use the service sometimes more than £100 for a car! a fixed link would reduce this and therefore hopefully give an affordable alternative which would give more people an affordable opportunity to work/education/healthcare as well as improve tourism which has declined overall but would surely improve with greater links providing yet another opportunity for islanders to work. The ferries are far too expensive and it would open the island up for more tourism creating jobs and bringing in money Freedom of movement ,and greater opportunities for buisness I think the island should be a place to be enjoyed and a fixed link would boost tourism. Ferry prices at the moment are extortionate and I feel a fixed link would combat that PAGE 314 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Every year we spend so much money getting to the island to see family we shouldn't have to and it limits us to how many times we go also people would visit the island for more day trips if it was easier to get to I think the island is suffering a lot with the expensive of the ferry services and the fact it takes so long on a car ferry. Because the ferry's are unreliable and a rip off. A fixed link would open up many more opertunities for islanders, bring back tourism, create more jobs and as a long term investment would eventually pay for itself and become a profitable and affordable to people using it without 2hr delays. Not to mention we've just lost the Bestival (one of the islands biggest tourism incomes) partly due to ferry costs and the same will happen to the isle Wight festival as the boats costs almost as much as the tickets The cost of transport of goods on the only link will have serious competition, we hope, and this can only be for the better. On the whole I am for the fixed link, I have grown up on the Isle of Wight and have family there but I have been living/working/studying on the mainland for the last 6 years and for me life would be a lot easier if I could just drive home. However I am very aware of the traffic that the new forest/Cornwall/ the Lake District all suffer from in peak tourist season (even hayling island) so I would be very keen to see that situation properly considered and avoided in any proposals Increased accessibility both ways, people visiting spending less on ferrys and therefore more likely to travel and spend here. Potential reduction in the cost for islanders to cross the solent. Because it will be easier for island residents to get to the mainland and easier for tourist to visit us I feel having a fixed link would improve the future of the island and its residence. This allows the island to be more accessable with no time or capacity restrictions. The island is governed by two companies that control the cost of traveling two and from the island as well as the times ( with services reducing year on year . Making leaving the island harder) . These companies are currently have a negative impact on both bussiness and tourism. It gives people another choice. At the moment we are held to ransom by seafaring pirates. Other islands with fixed links are fine. Take Skye for example. The island is slowly dying. Those resisting the fixed link are those of an older generation. They don't comprehend the extent of the islands future problems without a fixed link. Younger generations would receive better job options. More trade would be possible and also tourism. It would be a cheaper and better alternative for island residents to travel acroos to the mainland. We need business and tourists to sustain the island .But we need to look at our current infrastructure i.e hospitals ,schools road worthiness. Improved accessibility Would allow a more convenient and cheaper way of visiting family. A fixed link, which did not limit the times people could travel, even if there was a cost, would boost the island's economy and offer greater freedom in jobs, education and health care. It really would help the island in so many ways. I believe it we'll help businesses, increase tourism help our healthcare and education systems too. It will also encourage wages to increase to the national average. I don't know where on earth you would get the money from though to build a tunnel. Wouldn't a bridge be slightly cheaper? Although again who would fund this?? Greater access to services,buisness and tourism to.the island, also the ability to get off the island alot easier currently the price of the ferries puts alot of people off Better for the economy PAGE 315 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Because 1 of the main factors that makes it so hard for the IOW to progress in social and business points of view, are the fact that it is so expensive and time consuming to travel to the main land. The IOW is years behind the rest of the Country and socially people have no idea what is out there, as far as opportunities and experiences go. By creating a link from the Main land to the IOW it means people can pass freely from 1 to the other and doesn't limit the IOW to potential businesses being located on the Island. HOW CAN IT POSSIBLY BRING A NEGATIVE OUTCOME TO THE ISLAND??? To not be held ransom to the ferry companies as islanders! It would help young people with employment and education. It would help the island in tourism and healthcare if you needed to go to the mainland for cancer/or any treatments travelling by road which would be better than ferries! My whole family lives in the island. I got of so could train to be a doctor. My daughter is only a couple months old and has never been to the island because it's such a hastle with the ferry and the cost unreasonable. When i fibished myva levels i realised there was no future potential if i stated on the island.The future of the island will be one large nursing home if the younger generation don't have an opportunity to bring some money onto the island and stimulate the island economy. It will be cheaper, and more economical to the environment Better for tourism, better for trade, crest more jobs, improvement in island economy Cheaper access for tourists to the Islands boots the local economy. Easier commute allows islanders to look for work in Hampshire. The island is falling apart. The healthcare isn't sustainable over here. There's a lack of GPs because it isn't attractive to live here if they're young and newly qualified. Easier to get to better paid jobs on the mainland, therefore bringing more money over. The price of produce may decrease if no huge ferry fares. More companies would come here. No issues with posting items from Amazon or eBay! No waiting for ferries = happier residents. There is no apparent positive future in the current circumstances. The ferry is expensive and stopping companies locating to the island. Wages are low and there is disinvestment. I cannot see a positive future without a fixed link. . "Monopoly of current ferry providers makes traveling back to the Isle of Wight to see all my family expensive and difficult. An alternative through a fixed link would provide a cheaper more sustainable option." As an island everything is more difficult. Whether it be education choices, the ability to attract business or revenue. Regeneration cannot take place to key areas as it relies on tourism to fund it The island is struggling. Tourism is in decline, so are jobs. A FL could help boost all of this again and make the island a better place to live for everyone I feel it will do much better for the island, more people may feel obliged to visit, say for a day trip. You could charge a few pounds per car (like many mainland bridges) upon entering the tunnel, compared to the costs of bringing a car over on the ferry, for a family to visit it would be much more cost effective for them, and will therefor bring new people over to experience the island and it's attractions. I think it would be great. It would open up alot of opportunities for the Isle of Wight. Not waiting for boats would be so great. Like. Oh I'm just gunna drive here now and not wait for a certain time and miss my train etc. 😉 It would allow islanders to move around the country more freely, for example to visit relatives or to commute to work. There would be no more worrying about whether the weather was bad enough to disrupt the boats. The car ferries are mostly all in dilapidated states and the passenger ferries are extortionate. The ferry companies have had chances to save themselves by fixing these issues but keep failing to actually improve in any way. PAGE 316 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A fixed link would likely encourage more people to visit the island because it would be easier to access. There could be a park and ride on the mainland, with a shuttle bus through the tunnel to meet southern vectis services island side for tourists. This could keep traffic levels reasonable. It would greatly improve access to & from the island benefiting all areas of the island communities Because it will allow educational opportunities for struggling island students, more employment opportunities either way and allow for business to thrive on the island with a mainland customer base also The limited and expensive access by ferry across the Solent has a major impact on social, health and work opportunities for islanders, a fixed link would help to mitigate these problems. I think it is a positive because it would bring more visitors which would also help the businesses on the island plus it would alot easier for the islanders to commute to the mainland Would help with tourism and assist in job opportunities for both island and mainland residents. In my experience the ferry pricing has made the IOW increasing inaccessible as a tourist destination. You can now go abroad for the same price without the additional travel time to the ferry ports etc. Another huge problem is the seemingly random pricing structure IMO fixed link = fixed price. No penalty for wanting to come home at Christmas! The cost prevents me travelling home as frequently as I would like to and I'm sure many others all taking money away from Island businesses. Equally, the ability to commute with ease would mean many young talented people would continue to live on the IOW - the lifestyle is wonderful. Rent prices overall much more reasonable comparative to the mainland. However, I felt the need to leave due to repeatedly being told my wage was an Island wage so I had to like it or lump it effectively. Research on job sites showed that I was 8k lower paid than the average salary for almost identical positions - in Southampton!! (My answer above is correct I am a student but the low wages were the driving force for me deciding to leave the IOW). Once I have completed my degree I would love to return to the Island however I am unsure there is sufficient opportunity for employment in my sector. Access to a fixed link would create opportunity to commute with ease and hopefully encourage Island businesses to pay fair wages comparable to the national average and increase new business and employment opportunities. Good luck with the study and I look forward to seeing your hard work rewarded with a fixed link in the near future! The ferrys hold us to ransom charging for a holiday not a crossing!!! "24/7 accessibility Ferry costs too expensive Easier access for employment on/off island Bringing supplies/fuel over more cost effective" Tourism would benefit greatly..easy access to mainland ie holidays ,working,healthcare, "Easy access to the island will improve prosperity. E.g. If travelling as a day tourist to the coast from Home Counties etc, the cost and time to get to the island enable area such as Bournemouth / Dorset / Hants coast to become a priority destination rather than the Island. Better regular and cheap ferries or a fixed link would enable this- but an hour and a half wait to board a ferry - then Bournemouth it is. The lack of access / link is strangling the economy. The single holiday trip a year is not affected by the way it Is at present, but the day trips are a thing of the past due to cost / time for travel to the island. " There's not one negative that I can see to associate the Mainland to the Island via a fixed link. Traffic management is probably the most important thing. No reason why there still can't be some kind of booking system and holding areas rather than a free for all at the crossing points. That would enhance security too. PAGE 317 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It will open up so many more opportunities for the island and islanders Ferries are far too expensive and unreliable shouldn't even be a question to make a fix link or not I have a retail shop and the visitor numbers are diminishing every year. All traders agree, despite what the tourism bosses say. Increased opportunities for all aspects of life. I lived on the island for ten years between 2003 and 2013. I left because the education system was awful and levels of aspiration were so low. It is an island of deprivation only a few miles from one of the most vibrant parts of the European economy. For the sake of its, young people and its sustainability in the long term is desperately needs a fixed link. Over subscribed and overly expensive ferry crossing needs some competition. The island is suffering due to the massive cost of travel. The iow needs a fixed link it will improve tourism and economy Increases the opportunities available to all residents, makes travel for education and business more feasible. Easier access to either the mainland or island. Ferry prices are too high, unmanageable and unrealistic. I live and work on the mainland but have family and friends on the island and it is becoming increasingly difficult for me to visit them, especially when driving. The future of children being able to live and grow uninhibited where they were born. Being able to travel freely at any time. Better quality of life. Finally constraints on non islanders buying property as per jersey I think any 'fixed link' would be a positive way forward for the islands sustainability. You only need to look at our high streets to see the social economic downturn we are experiencing. We need to encourage new business and fresh talent to come/stay on our beautiful island. We have to move with the times in an ever increasing competitive market to ensure that our island survives. It provides the opportunity for the young to still live on the island but benefit from employment options on the mainland. As well as all employed age persons wider opportunities. Greater tourism and boost to the island economy from day trippers Because the island is in a slow decline give it 20 years it will be one big retirement home. I cannot see any downside to the prospect of a fixed link. But for me personally it would be the convenience of being able to come and go as you please, for hospital patients, students could commute to uni and still live at home, job prospects for people to look further afield, jobs created by improved tourism. Etc etc Standards in healthcare and education are compromised by the difficulties and costs associated with commuting between the mainland and the island. This community is hugely disadvantaged by such limited resources and a fixed link would alleviate those disadvantages immeasurably, allowing the island and it's residents to enjoy 21st century standards in healthcare, education and commerce. Positive as I travel commuting for university which is highly expensive It will help the SME businesses on the island. Having lived on he mainland and constantly using the Dartford crossing and the eurotunnel this can only be seen as a positive for those who have to,travel across the water somehow - it is far quicker by tunnel, and much better environmentally and will cause less congestion with sea traffic A fixed link would remove the monoply that the two (vehicle) ferry companies maintain. This monoply allows them to set fare levels at ridiculously high rates. A fixed link would lead to much fairer competition. I think you can argue both cases for and against a fixed link. But I think on balance nearly all would see a benefit from a fixed link. But most importantly it would change the attitude of the younger generation and give them more opportunities for them. The cost of traveling would be more affordable And convenient . A fixed link would bring a new level of freedom to Islanders. PAGE 318 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A fixed link would benefit all Islanders in every walk of life. Only Red Funnel and Wightlink would disagree. Increase tourism, reduced travel costs. Benefits to businesses on the islands - goods can be brought to the island cheaper, and we will gain from increase in larger chains Cost of crossing the water is to much The ferrys only run at certain time of the night. if you miss the ferry sometimes you have to wait upto 4 hours to get back onto the island, where as if you had a tunnel it would most likely be around 45 minuites to get back on the island. I personally don't get of the island much because of the hassle in planing my jurney to accommodate the ferry travel and the time it has to take me to get back. But having a tunnel to and from the mainland would mean I could get off the island. It would also open up new possibilities for me. I feel it would be a great benefit to islanders of all ages enabling them to see more of the mainland without the need for an extortionate ferry journey, I also feel it will give the island a much needed boost with regards to the tourism industry. We need to be connected. It would make travel and costs for islanders more achievable. A fixed link will bring jobs and tourist and I'm fed up being held to ransom by ferry companies and charged the earth to get off. A fixed link would make travelling to and from the island more economical, logistically simpler, and less time consuming. Commuters would likely find it easier, and more opportunities would be available for work and leisure cross-Solent. The island is dying, shops are closing, attractions are closing. If we have a fixed link surely this will improve in time? If companies don't have to pay the extortionate ferry costs, maybe we'll get some life back in to this beautiful island. because of ease of getting to and from the mainland, job opportunities and getting to mainland hospitals Because the Isle of Wight is dying a slow death. Because it would make life much easier being an island resident to work on the mainland and not have to leave family & friends behind "Opens up job opportunities for island people and will make the island more accessible for visitors. I only get off the island 2/3 times a year to visit family due to costs. Larger stores have in the past pulled out of trading on the island due to transport costs. A fixed like could help to bring businesses to the island which is definitely due" A fixed link would make it far more viable for islanders and mainlanders to commute to the island for work and vice versa. No more having to try to arrive at specific times, to catch a ferry, allows for greater flexibility for everyone as well as the ability to travel at any time of day/night and not worry about missing the last boat. It is already a worry, trying to catch a connection, when travelling half way across the country just to get home. Often arriving hours too early or late will usually having the requirement to pay more just to go home. Of my family I am now the only one left on the Isle of Wight. I like to see my sons and grandkids as often as possible, but it's so expensive. I have lived here all my life, but have now put my home up for sale so I can be near them. If there was a fixed link I could stay on the island that I love. As the current ferrys are expensive and unreliable, a cheaper toll tunnel would increase residents finding better paid work on the mainland which in turn will mean jobs on the island will have to pay more to keep their staff. Those residents will also then have more money in their pockets to spend at island businesses. It will enable people to travel cheeper and quicker, there for boosting tourism and local economy. This will also make the island more atractive to buisnesses thus creating more jobs It will boost the local economy PAGE 319 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I believe that a fixed link would benefit island residents by increasing tourism on the island, facilitating islanders visits to mainland for education, healthcare and commercial purposes. Stop the ferry companies charging mega money during summer school holidays ie £176.00 for a week return in August for 1 car and 2 passengers currently the island is like a waiting room at a cemetery.nothing to keep the younger generations here,ferry costs are atrocious and the crossings end far too early in the evenings.if we want the island to survive and thrive make it fun and accessible. To be blunt, the Island is dying on it's backside and unless someone intervenes and offers a viable alternative in attracting greater and better businesses, including massive improvements to tourism, it will indeed continue to be stuck in the 70's, with ideas to match. Yes, the Island will change, but I firmly believe it will improve the fabric of the Island to be a better place to live, work and enjoy life for all, not just a few. Occasionally, with friends and family on the mainland, you NEED to Just Go to get to them in an emergecy or you want to travel home and get to the coast at 8.10 on a Sunday evening and have to wait until 10 before you are even nearly home. Cost of ferrys aside, a fixed link would provide access to and from the Island 24/7, 365 days a year nomatter what the weather is doing. Also, it would make travelling a lot less stressful, knowing that if you get held up on the mainland you don't have to chase a ferry booking, and leaving the Island you don't have to sit around for half an hour in a marshalling yard, then sit for up to an hour on a ferry, just to travel a few miles before you start your journey properly. There would be faster travel to Hospitals, it would be realistic to send emergency vehicles from neighbouring counties in the event of a major incident. ie large fire like the one at Cowes. Ferry companies would have to become more competitive, cross Solent travel WILL be cheaper,farmers get a better deal, tourists can get here quicker and cheaper. The island needs this, the world is changing all around us, we need to change with it. The island will die without a fixed link Positive for ease of transport to and from the mainland It will be a great way of linking the island to the mainland. As a resident of the island it is often hard to come across to the mainland due to how expensive the boats are!!! And the time it takes which then sometimes there is no point even going! I believe it will also bring in more tourism as the link will have a more stable pricing and will take ALOT quicker to get over! Because currently it is too expensive to get on and off the island. I rarely see my family as it costs too much. If you could get on and off cheaply and whenever you wanted people would use this option more Would prefer a bridge Making travelling to and from the Isle of Wight much easier to bring more business and tourism to the Island without extra cost. Being able to just drive straight over to see my family more often would be good withtout having to consider the expense of the car ferry. It is difficult to attract professionals to the island (eg maths teachers) and young people need to be able to commute easily to gain fulfilling employment as the island has many pockets of social deprivation . I fear for the future of the island without it Would allow the IOW to move into the 21st century along with the rest of the UK. Far too expensive and time consuming to get there at the moment. "The island is slowly getting left behind with fewer employment opertunity available a fixed link will bring in other opportunities and businesses to move the island forward " Having a fixed link would increase employment opportunities and therefore wages the isle is becoming run down and full of either retired people or people on minimum wage. A fixed link would breath life and investment into the island. PAGE 320 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Because I feel the Island is getting left behind, so are many of its inhabitants, particularly those on low incomes who may not be able to access certain services etc etc., which are becoming more frequently only available on the mainland Easier to get on and off the island Ferry prices are too expensive Would help the economy and people's standard of living. It would be an enormous boost to the economy on the Island and would provide much better prospects for the Island's young people. To quite simply open up new avenues of opportunity, in all forms, to the residents of the IOW where there is current lacking. The island is in desperate need of being dragged into the 21st century. A fixed link would be of huge benefit to the island. High unemployment, seasonal unemployment, below par education standards. Being able to attract new business and not paying through the nose for everything that has to be supplied to the island.the island is one of the poorest regions in the UK . It can only be a positive move, surely. The unique difficulties of living on the Isle of Wight are not considered in government level fund allocation algorithms. I don't believe this will be fixed anytime soon. However a fixed link will negate some of these unique difficulties. Talk to Big businesses about the difficulties they have in recruiting skilled people to the island. It's mostly to do with the fact they can't offer competitive packages. Better for the economy and well being of Island people "The Ferry companies are killing tourism on the island and stunting the islands ability to grow its businesses and bring in new investors. Island families often remain poor due to the low wages and lack of job choices. A bridge or tunnel would increase the ease and distance of travel for work and greaten the chances of mainland businesses wanting to invest in the island." Businesses and Tourism is dying - only the ferries prosper. Education and NHS is in dire straights due to lack of trained professionals prepared to move here. Families are torn apart because ferries are too expensive to visit. Social life is non existent as travelling to the mainland for an event usually involves a hotel and ferry and doubles the cost. Ferries are not only expensive but unreliable and add hours to any journey. Access to healthcare. Speed of travel. Need to have the same benefits as mainland. Freedom of movement. We are held to ransom by the ferry company's. It would help the tourism As long as it was closed at weekends too protect the Islands way of life! "The only way the Island can survive is to have a fixed link " "Ease of movement, day a d night. Create investment and jobs, enhance tourism. Spread traffic movement evenly instead of corralling vehicles onto ferries " Lack of jobs, failing schools, businesses closing, lack of healthcare options, lack of care at home services, lack of mental health services. People leaving the island as no job prospects. Expensive boat travel meaning commuting not an option for lower paid jobs. Incovenient and unreliable boats. Lack of education prospects. Bring a fixed link to island to make all these things accessible! More day trippers both ways. Getting off for a day isn't currently worth it for me Because it will allow the other forms of travel to continue as an option for those who wish to still travel on a boat or Hover whilst still allowing those who wish to travel to the Island via the tunnel not to have to pay the high charges of putting their cars on the ferries and will therefore increase the amount of visitors here. Also the business's here will benefit from not having extra delivery charges on goods they order from the mainland. All round PAGE 321 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • this Island will benefit from a road tunnel. School children will have better opportunities to further their education as travel charges will be less. To help encourage more business', more tourism, more links to mainland health services and facilities, easier for commuters/studying, to ease travel costs i.e. overly expensive ferry costs. The young and industry are leaving the island. We have an increasing nimbly population which needs reversing. "Business up, tourism up, quality of life up, employability (NHS/teachers up). Travel times slashed, pollution slashed, island tax revenue up! The opposition is using squirrels as a reason to not do this, given funding, there is no reason to not push for a tunnel/bridge it's ridiculous, subject to minimal environmental impact each end." "I believe that having a tunnel between the IOW and mainland is the only option for the island to save it from completely collapsing. Access to the mainland needs to be both affordable and be 24/7. The ferry operators have failed to give either of the above by running effectively a cartel that charges extreme amounts to fund it's investors at the cost to islanders and visitors. It's service provision has become contemptable to the needs of the 140k living here and to visitors. We need this study to take place as soon as possible." A cheapeir and easier way to get to and from the island will boost tourism and business for the island. For example the isle of wight has lost the bestial due to the extra cost of having it here. A fixed link would reduce the cost its needed ! I constantly rely on ferries as I work on the mainland and frequently have to extend my work day due to poor ferry service. The cost will soon outweigh the benefit of higher wages on the mainland and then I will come to the sad conclusion I may have to move. I am sad that the island will deteriorate in socioeconomic standing and opportunities for our young people diminish further. Safeguard this beautiful Island and link it to the facilities and benefits of the city and provide beautiful sanctuary to the city dwellers when they need a break at an affordable cost. Wales does just fine with their bridges; so can the Island. With job opportunities being minimal, especially in the higher wage brackets, on the Island, quick and easy access to the mainland would be a great boost for people jobseeking and for our young people who would have greater access to education. The ferries greatly reduce access to education, healthcare and jobs. Fixed Link NOW! An ability to come and go, 24 hours a day, without hinderance of weather conditions would be hugely beneficial for everyone Easier access for island residents to mainland health care and education services It will revitalise the Island! We can come & go as we please. We can afford to find work on the mainland. Businesses will want to come here. Businesses already here will have a safer future. Tourism will increase. Families and friends can have proper relationships by being able to afford to spend time with each other in person. Healthcare will be fair & easy to access for all in mainland hospitals as ours is already over stretched & pretty awful. Doctors, dentists, teachers, nurses, doctor will be able to live on the mainland but still work here unlike now when being forced to come here is not an attractive option for them. Every aspect of life will improve! There are NO downsides imo. Our ferries are unreliable, slow,overpriced & the ferry operators control the Island by being in control of the council, & of us too. Bring on the fixed link!!! I answered positive because a fixed link allows more options for travel and will force the ferries to bring there prices down bringing more tourism and a different range of people to perhaps even move to the island Its ridiculous all these ferries charging such high amounts to do just 8miles! Having a tunnal would be more efficient plus patrolled for safety.. PAGE 322 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Good for businesses and residents on the Isle of Wight! Will finally break the hugely expensive monopoly held by the ferry companies! Cheaper than the ferries. A road link would reduce travel costs. Allow business, education and tourism to expand and flourish. It would aid the IoW economy bringing jobs, high wages. This would lift the Island from its place near the bottom of education statistics, improve wages and go someway in dragging the IoW out of its depressed status and open up the prospect of children expanding their horizons Work (no prospects), education (failing schools), healthcare (failing hospital), Tourism (towns are dying). At the moment it is clear the Isle of Wight is struggling on a lot of issues, from tourism to healthcare are effected due to cost and frequency of coming to the IOW. I believe a fixed link would help bring the IOW forward economicly and help the island improve. Cheaper, easier travel for all, especially those relying on travel links for work. As a business investor on the island , I feel business could be so much improved with a tunnel. The Answer is undoubtedly positive, unless you moved to the island for the "quiet", however, it cannot afford to keep running if this is the case. With little to entice firms, low skills amongst employment and poor standard of living in comparison to cost of living, the Island loses skills (human capital) every year. It is already one of the most reliant areas on goverment spending in the country The island is dying a death due to the Ferry Prices, unreliability and not having a 24/7 transport link that tourism, healthcare and educational benefits it would be able to be used for! Have you ever spent 2 hours at PORTSMOUTH waiting for the ferry on a cold winters night with a car full of children bring on the fixed link Needs to have another option than the monopolised ferry rip offs It will allow businesses to recruit with ease in run encouraging growth. Along with the boost for tourism. It would enable the island to be more competitive even with a small charge for using a tunnel even if it was just used for emergency services, from yarmouth to hurst castle shortest route I see both sides of the story. Yes there is negative side but I can see that the positives out weighs it. More business coming over to the island, higher number of people moving over to the island means that property prices will go up and peoples income with increase. Plus there are many more reasons for it. Overall it is a good thing. Easy access ability and expense to commuters and tourism I think it would in all be a more affordable and reliable way to travel to and from the island; generating more tourism and business and now being so "cut off" due to overpriced and restricted ferry services. I love the ferry crossing and I think it's a great part of coming her, especially for first timers to the island, but over the years the times drop and prices increase. I understand why the ferry companies have done this but it will eventually "kill" businesses, events, schools, general tourism etc. I think the fixed link would open up so many possibilities and I fully support it. Accessibility to and from any island community is a positive move,as long as it well managed. Economic prosperity is crucial to allow IoW children the best chance to thrive, a FL will be a massive catalyst. Ferry fares are killing the island. Too expensive to get on and off. We've just lost the festival, major income for the island what else are we going to lose. Expense to get on and off puts people off traveling unless it's necessary. The current provision for cross Solent transport is currently too expensive, slow and restricts the future growth of the economy. PAGE 323 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Working in hospitality for the last 8 years I have seen a massive dip in the amount of people visiting the island. I believe a fixed link would be perfect for day visitors and a massive boost to the islands economy "The island' has three areas of deprivation and an income level, considerably lower than that seen across the central southern area of England on the other side of The Solent. The island NHS service, in particular St Mary's is already becoming a satelite hospital where only minor surgery is performed. The island is becoming increasingly isolated from the UK mainland because of the unacceptable cost of ferry travel. Many island residents can no longer afford to leave the island. The island can't attract high quality doctors or teachers to our failing schools. What was once a magnet for retirees to spend their twilight years, has become a prison for many. Relations can no longer afford to visit their elderly family who reside on the island. A fixed link tunnel has the potential to reverse or at least put a brake on some of the issues mentioned and open up opportunities for inward investment on the island, creating much needed local employment, raising spending on the island. " Ease of access, price of ferries, Better business and tourist prospects to name a few Ease of travel to and from the mainland not restricted by ferry timetables,weather or unreliable vessels etc. Business between the Island and mainland vehicle wise made much easier,plus tourism would flourish. For the reasons listed above. "There is a strong majority of people on the Isle of Wight that are retired or under the age of 18 so therefore there is a lot of taxes being used on the island for services to provide the age groups. With this in mind, that means there's already a majority of working people that can't get a decent enough wage to be taxed enough to fund these services so money can be used for more important issues I.e public transport. A fixed link will give the opportunity for islanders to earn a better wage and a better quality of life and thus providing more income for the island through taxation as well as more disposable income for the citizens of the island. This is only a tip of this whole iceberg. " It would be great to have people pop to and through without having to wait and book be ripped off and equally important for us islanders. I have given some of my thoughts above. However, I believe that the ferry companies have too much power and control over the IOW Council and the lives of people who live and work here. They prevent the island from flourishing and one, Red Funnel is 'hell bent' on grabbing important employment land with the blessing of a Government quango in order to sell it later for housing to property developers. "The island is getting ""older"" as our young people leave to find work, particularly those with decent qualifications. Businesses are unlikely to move here from elsewhere in the UK, or local ones reach their full potential, unless they can ""import"" and ""export"" without the significant extra cost imposed by the Solent. Also our schools are apparently not highly regarded, and certainly their results are below average. So why would young professionals want to move here with their families? Good teachers are needed to turn the schools round, but if their own children are likely to suffer then they will not come. Similarly we hear that a fixed link would mean services moving away from St Mary's hospital, but we already have a shortage of doctors and seem unable to attract new ones. A fixed link would allow them to live on the mainland if they preferred and commute quickly at a more reasonable cost." Economic viability See above. In my opinion it would transform the Island from a sleepy backwater into a far more vibrant and positive entity. At same time I really don't think it would lose any of its appeal Ease of transport, building business and jobs. Ferries are to dear and with fuel going up all the time PAGE 324 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ferry is far too costly and slow so commuting isn't an attractive option and our visits are less than we'd like through financial reasons. Our economy is behind the mainland we need a fixed link to enable jobs, business to flow with more freedom to support us living here. As an aging island, it's vital to encourage the residency of young adults to maintain any sense of economic and social growth on the island. Allowing for alternative, more affordable and convenient methods of comuting would allow adults the ability to persuit careers not limited by the current island market whilst enjoying the lifestyle on the Isle of Wight; a concept that currently seems near impossible to achieve. I believe that connectivity, and freedom of movement across the Solent is the only way to ensure the future wellbeing of the Isle of Wight. I also believe that the exorbitant cost of the 2 vehicle ferry companies, including their unreliability has been the sole detrimental factor in the overwhelming decline of the Isle of Wight, Esspecially education, healthcare, business and residents wellbeing! Because it means more people will visit the island giving more money being put into the island Positive for the future of the Island. To help develop businesses here, to help keep educated, working tax payers here to help make the Island a better place for all. Ferries hold the island to ransom and impede economic activity Mainly due to the benefit of permanent and quick access to the mainland in the case of a medical emergency and also to the benefit to tourism. Allowing the ferry's to be the only means of transport off and on the island lets them have a sudo monopoly. Since there is no other way to get on and off the island we HAVE to pay whatever price they want to charge people. We have choice in this. The expenses are stupidly high for a short 10 to 20 minute journey. It feels like the isle of Wight council doesn't actually work for the people of isle of Wight. The Island 's future economy depends on attracting more tourists and improving business opportunities if it is to grow and thrive. Clearly for this to happen there needs to be good , affordable, reliable, unrestricted access on and off the Island , which the current ferry arrangements are not able to fulfil . I have missedearlymorning flight from Heathrow recent while working in Sweden. The choice of ferry crossing times were such that it made the whole logistics of traveling very awkward to nigh on impossible. Opportunities for residents currently unable to commute for work for either cost of travel or time taken to commute, investment from businesses that are put off by the current prices of ferry travel. The ferry monopoly is untenable to Island residents- they have us over a barrel Travel to the Island is disproportionally expensive. It put pressure on the infra structure and the future of the island. Able to access services on the mainland The island desperately needs big business, and none in their right minds would locate to the island due to the extortionate ferry prices and inconvenience. The island economy is failing. The tourism industry on which it depends is strangled by the most expensive sea crossing (in terms of cost per mile) in the world and cannot compete with with budget airlines to sunnier climes. A fixed link would eradicate the 'tax' imposed by current crossing services and open up a whole new stream of accessible jobs on both sides of the water and bring valuable excess revenue back to the island microcosm. This Island is going to the dogs. My children have no future here. My elderly mother is well now but if she needs hospital services, I can't imagine having to travel back and forth on ferries. "Because we should not be at the mercy of a terrible service and extortionate prices to leave, in the this day and age we should be able to come and go when we please. PAGE 325 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Easier access to higher education/better paid jobs and lower costs for tourists are surely a no brainer." Access to better healthcare. Cheaper travel. "Most places separated by a small stretch of water, are fixed link connected with no adverse figures on crime etc, so why should the IOW not be too? The ferries companies have held the Island to ransom for decades and firstly need to be controlled, or secondly, given competition. If the ferries were managed better, prices would drop and a fixed link would not be necessary. But they have held their corrupted control for so long, competition seems the only way." Young people would no longer have to leave an otherwise fantastic place in order to access employment. Positive because it will boost the economy of the Island, and hopefully in turn the much needed improvements in education. The cost of people travelling from and too the Island is also now so incredibly high that it is leaving people stranded and the Island isolated. This is also negative for businesses and the overall economy of the Isle of Wight, which many people believe is being left behind the rest of the UK, and damaging the image of the Island. "it will help employment issues (I have commuted at cost and unreliability of ferries) " Integration of our community with the mainland. Reduced delivery charges A tunnel has the least impact on the environment. Makes ease of movement more convenient and will improve the quality of life for all. Work prospects will be established and access to family and friends will be improved. The island is dying. There is nothing for anyone to do across the whole age range. There are only so many walks you can take to see the outstanding natural beauty here. That us all the island has to offer. Even tourists will get fed up with no other choices As a young person growing up on the island often I get the feeling of feeling trapped because it isn't so easy to get off the island. The ferry prices are ridiculous and seem to be getting worse. Price and reliability of current transport system is horrendous It will bring a lot more people to the island. We will not be held at ransom by the ferry companies which we are at the moment. Look at Bestival for example...I know this wasn't the sole cause but this has disappeared as ferry prices are high! We javelin no option but to use the overpriced, and frankly poor services of the ferry companies at present and it's about time something is done! Flexibility for education, business, healthcare, travel, commuting. Increased tourism to the island. The cost of the ferries is the main reason why there are less visitors to the island year on year and also the main reason why island residents cannot afford to look elsewhere for employment. save time and money in all aspects of life The ferry company's are robbing us blind, plus it would bring alot more people to the island The existing ferry services are dispropotionately expensive, and provide a poor service To improve employment opportunities and raise aspiration amongst Island people Cost of transport reduced and ease of transport. The ferries effect a lot of things on this island. Mainly business and tourism and this island is suffering because of it. The one hospital is not enough for the population of this island. And having a tunnel will make it easier for people that work off the island Will give everyone more opportunities to venture to the mainland for a reasonable price, the ferry companies take advantage during peak seasons PAGE 326 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "The Island is dying, and the cost and poor service of the Ferries is one of the key factors in this. Who would invest in a place like this when they have no control of access. " Times have changed and people need to travel without restriction. The Isle of Wight is a depressed area with little hope of improvement unless a link is constructed. "It will boost the islands economy through tourism and day trippers. Business will benefit though cheaper shipping costs. We have already lost the bestival and tourism industry is nothing compared to 20 years ago and beyond. In my personal opinion if they built it tomorrow it's already 20 to 30 years to late. #fixedlink " Having the freedom to travel at times that you wish to and not having to follow timetables would be marvellous. Also the cost of travelling would be much cheaper even allowing for toll fees. A fixed link would be the answer for folk having to travel to and from the island for work, it would encourage new teachers, healthcare staff etc to apply for positions, on the island, that cannot be recruited to at present. This can only be a benefit to the island residents. Probably residents that are currently unemployed here would consider trying for employment on the mainland as travelling would be easier, thus lowering the benefits burden. Hopefully cheaper to cross than the ferry and get on and off the island no matter what the weather or time. Positive if it means cheaper and equal pricing for commercial and domestic, as it will level opportunities for all. However I still believe a fixed link would be a catalyst to a lot of other positive and negative impacts, that would not all become apartment from a simple feasibility study. "Ferry prices are too high and constantly change according to the seasons - this makes movement to and/or from the island a problem for both residents and tourists. A tunnel would allow 24/7 access for businesses/workers/emergencies etc." The Island needs to do all it can to ensure a good economic future for the younger generation and those who follow. Better chances for islanders for jobs and travel, better for the island bringing in holiday makers. No having to use the ridiculously priced ferry as theres no other option Easy and quick movement between main land and island must be a plus for every one even the emergency services. Would rather pay a toll to see my family not have to book ferry then get caught in traffic trying to make sailing times . this island is sinking under the present rip off services With the high prices of the ferries, cancelled ferries and island residents unable to get booked on ferries in high season then a fixed link would be a welcome asset for Island residents. Freedom of movement and wider opportunities See family more would be great It would stop islanders being held to ransom by the ferry cartel. "Improved access for islanders and their families, improved education , improved businesses, improved healthcare- reduce waste on shipping patients on expensive ferries. It's a no -brainer!! " held ransom overnight and during bad weather. rip off ferry prices. Would be a great opportunity for people on the island to find better jobs. People from mainland to visit the island more often. I feel it would benefit everyone . The people that don't want it would soon be using it! Ferry prices far too expensive and makes it difficult to get across in am emergency especially when unemployed.Opens up more options to find employment on the mainland without spending galf your salary on ferry fares. PAGE 327 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • "The cost of the ferry crossing is too expensive and too many delays and cancellations. Prices escalate during the summer especially festival weeks, the island has lost a lot of tourists because of this expense. Traveling to mainland hospitals will be much easier for the patient. Mainland police and all emergency services would be able to reach the island quicker to assist in emergencies." Quicker and cheaper way of traveling would be helpful for Isle of Wight bussines, tourism and could open many new perspectives for people The island needs an alternative to the ferry which restricts many people from either visiting or leaving the island for day trips, work etc. We rely too heavily on the ferries to bring goods to the island. We need a back up. I would have thought that the cost would be lower to get off of the island so I would be able to see my family more often. I would not be held to ransom over when I can leave and come home. Job prospects would be better because I wouldn't need to spend a large chunk of my wage if I got a job off the island. Tourist would find it easier to get on the island for holidays. More jobs would be created. The local economy would grow. More businesses would be attracted to the island. Because the islands residents are tired of being conned to visit the mainland, it is cheaper to got abroad. Expensive ferry travel. Cutting us off from the mainland. Rubbish schools. We need to encourage people to come here and have accessibility for us to the mainland. Improve access to healthcare and education. Boost economy. Faster, cheaper connection to allow us to move to island but still work on mainland. It would reduce transport costs and ,with the advent of more treatment in the NHS being performed on the mainland, save time and make it more convenient for travel to appointments. Travel would not be weather dependent. It is the 21st century, progress. The island depends on tourism. Make it more convenient for tourists to come here all year round. Ferry prices and frequency of timetable are holding back the future economic development and survival of our island Quicker, no waiting times, flexibility in not being subjected to specific times plus possible delays/Canx of ferries, huge overall save in costs (i.e. Less likely to spend as per currently on food/drink etc on ferry Cheaper more reliable service 24/7 Because it reduces the isolation- allows people freedom to visit mainland at their choosing It will give more opportunities for positive socio-economic development of the Island, create more local jobs and give access to the mainland employment and educational opportunities. The boats are awful, expensive and unreliable. A fixed link should be cheap for island residents but more expensive for mainlanders to stop too many coming over all the time A fixed link would the answer to the island prayers. Tourism is low businesses are leaving due to the high cost of travel. We need to modernise the island bring it up to date get people coming and going, generate opportunities. The time and cost to travel cut the island off. This leads to difficulties recruiting i.e medical staff, teachers. We end up with a second rate service and lack of ambition because of this. My children now live on the mainland and I cannot see them very often due to cost of travel. I work on the mainland and the cost of travel every day including parking is around £5,000 per year which I am struggling with. I am looking into the possibility of moving to mainland myself but the difference in property prices for where I need to be are prohibitive. I feel many more people are in this position and then you also have to take PAGE 328 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • into account falling tourism figures, falling standards of health provision and education........ The immediate clear benefits of a fixed link Positive on balance. I am aware that there are important planning considerations that need to be in place, should such a tunnel be built, that addresses the legitimate concerns of island inhabitants that one of the things that makes IOW special is the limited access it has. This has preserved many features of the environment (both natural and built) that makes the Island a unique place to live and visit. If a tunnel led to a degradation, or loss, of those features I would consider the prospect as having a negative impact, so these features need to be identified, assessed and protected as an intrinsic part of any planning process. "It will bring more tourism and business to the island, which means more money for the Isle of Wight, which can only improve the state of some of the failing towns on the island. It will also be more cost effective for those traveling via the tunnel than with the ridiculously expensive ferry companies, not to mention more time efficient." Because the ferry companies are exploiting the only form of travel off the island It doesn't damage the natural views/presentation of the island - will not be weather affected, reducing delays/closure. A road fixed link would give IOW massive flexibility in a quick route to the mainland. At the moment we are in the hands of the ferry operators with poor timetables and over the top prices. A fixed route that tied up with the M27/A3 would be fantastic, no more trying to judge journey timings to catch a ferry, we would be able to come and go as we wish. It would give people flexibility in employment, possibly drive wages up on the island and attract investment. A fixed link at some point in the future is an inevitability, why not now. The Island needs to do something, I know so many people moving off now we were thinking of doing the same once we can afford to do so. "Positive. Improve the way of life on the island. Help with unemployment,teenage pregnancies and provide ample of expansion for new businesses." The current cost and limitation of the ferry service prevents growth on the island and restricts islanders The Island has been in economic decline for a number of years. The transport links are fourth world and are a barrier to business, economic development, tourism and even public services. They also have a negative impact on the population of the Island. Children who have been born and brought up here cannot, after higher education, forge a successful future here. With a fixed link, they could live here and drive to mainland jobs. Both the private and public sectors would benefit economically and the Island would benefit from a more diverse community in terms of age. A positive fixed link, but a bridge would be cheaper, safer and easier to maintain. "As stated the island has very few economic opportunities for younger people with few well paid professional jobs or careers on offer The infrastructure of the island is very poor Sandown Ryde and Newport looking rather worn The closed theatre in Ryde is a example of poor planning along with the dilapidated pier at Totland The island needs a vision for the next 30 years and more opportunities for future generations " The island is impoverished not prospects. The island is dying. A tunnel would boost the economy on the island and enable people to seek work further a field the island would benefit from a fixed link as freedom of movement at a lower cost would bring prosperity and encourage more cultural and educational development It will help grow a run down, out of touch island the desperately needs a better sustainable economy to help young people. PAGE 329 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It feels like we are isolated from the rest of Britain. With lack of funds or during certain hours we cannot access the mainland or friends/relatives. It's akin to being held hostage! Hugely positive to the economy and social wellbeing of the Isle of Wight and it's population. "I personally think is imperitive that this is seriously considered For the future of the island and for the future of my children growing up. Personally it is a disgrace the way the ferry companies operate and monlopilise and take advantage of their/our situation However I think it is essential to help people who commute for work, travel and tourism and to improve island life as a whole, something that can be eco friendly also using tidal or other methods and addtional to this use the link to improve facilities such as distribution of internet and other services that we rely on from the mainland. " The island needs a 24/7 access to rejuvenate it. The island is dying, businesses closing, next generations without prospects, lack of opportunities, reduced incomes and over priced and unreliable current transport. I personally have worked with multiple individuals who would not come here due to cost implications. I believe the only way forward for the IOW in every way is a fixed link Because it would mean, that you are not tied to unreliable, irractic, poorly timed service, you come and go as you pleased any time of day or night. It would enable Islanders to be more mobile and conversely allow many more day-trips by tourists, bringing much needed extra trade to local businesses. The cost, inefficiency and limitations of a ferry service is starving IOW of industry, tourism, employment and educational choices. "The island needs a link to boost not only busineses but also tourism. At present some of our holiday towns are an eyesore and an embarrassment. The island is now in the top ten most deprived areas in the UK with poor education, people unable to afford to get on and off the island due to high fares and lack of regular jobs. " It would make the island a more prosperous place and also we wouldn't be held to ransome by the likes of the ferry companies Any fixed link would be positive in my eyes. I have family on the IOW and find the ferries a real burden, as they are slow, expensive and too infrequent. They are very limiting for residents who wish to attend evening events on the mainland. The current ferry system also means it is not feasible for 'mainlanders' to commute to the IOW for work, but the poor schools put families off moving there. A fixed link could improve recruitment as commuting would be a lot more viable. This would hopefully improve the hospital and school systems so improve prospects for islanders. The Island is in such a poor state compared to many areas on the mainland. I want to see my children and grandchildren live in an area of prosperity not decline. "The island needs tourism and the cost of getting here is stopping some people coming over. Also the hospital need to have a better, quicker option to ferry patients to mainland hospitals. S" As we only have one hospital struggling to serve the entire island, we need a fixed link to the mainland. I've had to be referred to Southampton General to specialist doctors and to have an MRI scan which St Mary's wouldn't or couldn't provide on various occasions, and if there had been bad weather affecting the ferry services I would have missed those appointments, negatively affecting my health and the NHS (its a waste of their time and resources to miss scheduled appointments, and it could've been several months before I could get another appointment). Additionally, the majority of my family live on the mainland; if the ferries stopped running while a family member on the mainland was giving birth or dying, it would be devastating. Even if using a fixed link cost me double the PAGE 330 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • cost of the ferries (which we all agree is ridiculously expensive!!), having the choice to use it in emergencies is so, so needed by island residents. To be effectively stranded on a small piece of land whenever the weather is bad is dangerous and frankly ridiculous in this day and age. On top of this, most young people have to move off the island for their careers; a fixed link would make commuting more realistic and hopefully improve the age diversity of the island, not to mention the positives for local businesses and tourism. Having spoken to residents on the Isle of Skye about their fixed link, they have seen greater numbers of tourist which has increased prosperity for them and also more jobs for island people. I am sure it would have the same benefits here as well. It is needed to regenerate business on Island Free movement onto and off the island will encourage tourism, particularly short term and impulsive trips. Access to specialist services on the mainland will be easier. Its a positive thing because it makes it so much easier accessible as we are always having to wait at the ferry terminals when it does not even take that long to travel by car to get to your destination. Also, the prices of the ferry tickets are so much expensive that by the time you have crossed that little bit of water, you are restricted to what you can do as you would have already spent a fair bit with the crossing. I am born and live on the island and have been against the fixed link but due to the astronomical ferry prices feel that we have no choose but to go for a fixed link. It will help with the tourist industry ( people would be able to come over for short holidays as they would not have to pay the for the ferry) better job prospects ( able to travel easier quicker and cheaper ) better healthcare as would be able to see family if they are being treated on the mainland and make it easier to choose where they have their care done the downside is I believe crime may increase and our roads are not able to cope with large amount of traffic Be cheap than rip of Ferrys Stops residents and visitors being held to ransom by the ferry companies. For the islands survival, to bring more business and tourism, reduce unemployment by producing a more viable option for people that would like to work further afield, better access to off island healtchare services.and to provide islanders with a choice Easy of getting to and from mainland. Not affected by weather conditions. The islands economy is struggling and it is impossible to recruit doctors , social workers and teachers etc. Prospects for young people are very limited. I think without a fixed link the Island is slowly dying, qith businesses struggling, education suffering as recruitment is difficult since commuting is not a viable option und youngsters moving off the Island. Links have been built everywhere and successfully improved other places. This is needed for tourism, business - both current and potential new investment. Easier access to mainland , would create more jobs on island , better level of teachers, social workers to island . The island is declining rapidly and is unfortunately a shadow of what it once was, 10 years ago I would have probably been against a fixed link but now see it is essential for the future of what is a beautiful part of the world. The Island needs to be recognised by Government as an island and should be given financial assistance. The island needs to attract industry as a source of revenue and work for our children. "This would. Be a good thing for the Island we will get. More visitors " For the life blood of the island to survive with jobs for the young and accessible health care which st Marys cannot provide The easy access to and from the island will increase commerce, will increase tourism, easier to get to specialist hospitals, puts the island in commuting distance of the South's PAGE 331 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • major cities will increase house prices because of this and so much more. The list is endless... Accessibility, not just cost, to and from the island makes it very difficult to see a future here The isle need modernisation now The ferry crossings are extremely expensive with moderate frequency. This is a difficult cost to carry when you have a home, family and career progression to consider. We don't ever want to move, this is our home and it's not fair that we are expected to pay so much to travel such a short distance by boat. A fixed link would also give us more flexibility to be able to visit family and commute to the mainland freely with full accessibility and a choice of transport. It will help the Island survive, the ferry companies are killing tourism and the islanders should have easy access to the mainland for jobs and healthcare. More work opportunities, quicker to get on and off, The island is isolated & areas are becoming delapidated. Just look around. We need to look into alternative options to keep things fresh. As a business owner a fixed link will threaten us with competition but in my opinion the island comes first & wd need recitalusing Have answered positive, as I believe that a fixed link would be so good for this Island, to generate tourism, and business, with the freedom that a tunnel would allow, and not be held to ferry timetables and prices. Get this right and all would benefit. Easier access on/off isle which means hospital access is faster, trips less delayed amd times easier to estimate, plus cheaper compared to current ferry prices Gives us all a better quality of life It will allow more children to stay on the Island but will be able to take up jobs on the mainland. Also deliveries to factories and shops would be free instead of the surcharges of the goods coming by ferry as above, weather is a problem to the ferries and above all, there is a need for emergency access to major healthcare on the mainland. More jobs and opportunities will be available, as business would more likely invest on the island. Ferries are way too over-priced, and ease of access with a link is obviously a much better choice. I would like to see a tunnel so that I can cross to the mainland and back without being held to ransom and times by the ferry companies It's the only solution to the many problems the Island faces It is vital for the Islands future in all areas, tourism, work opportunities. young peoples future prospects and easier recruitment of quality staff. I have a partner who works on the mainland and want to commute from the island so we can live together. Its to expensive We need a tunnel, for employment, and prosperity In my option there are pros and cons, however the positive impact it will have on; employment, education, healthcare access, tourism, and social aspects out way all negative factors. The ferry prices are extortionate! And are killing the progress of the island. The island people would benefit from easier access to the mainland. More employment opportunities, less expensive and easier access to healthcare, social/educational opportunities and family commitments can be undertaken more frequently. Tourism and investment on the island would increase. Improved tourism, business and social links If done in an environmentally friendly way then a fixed link can only bring more opportunities for the island for both local businesses and those wishing to commute for work and universities in a more cost effective reliable manner PAGE 332 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Allow and encourage closer links and ease of trading with the mainland. Allow easier access to healthcare. Freedom of movement. The exorbitant and inconsistent costs charged by the ferry companies that monopolise the cross solent travel methods currently are putting a stranglehold on the island's industry, tourism, health care and the education of its residents. Easier for business and islanders "I left the island in 2003, and returned in 2014. The decline in social capital; lack of economical growth; and it's capacity to sustain are astonishing to the eye. I decided to stay in 2014 to work towards bettering the island, but 3 years of restraint and sickening ferry companies have me questioning whether to personally take my skills + experience somewhere that has connection to wider community assets, better healthcare + education " Time and Money are too of the most important factors in the workings of modern life.They should not be wasted on ferry over 4 miles of water. I regularly travel to the mainland (2-3 times per month for the past 10 years). The variation on price due to summer holidays/festivals and the like can be as much as three times as much. A regular and set price on a means of crossing that cannot be "delayed by fog" or technical issues would be a God send. Im very Pro- link!! The growth and stability of the island, it's ability to function as a balanced community, is severely hampered by an outdated mode of connectivity to the rest of the UK. Unless this improves with 24/7 reasonably priced access the Island will become a retirement dormitory with little access to services. It will have a beneficial effect on the economy of the Isle of Wight I believe it will boost the economy of the IOW and help to bring investment. Sick to death of exhorbitant and inefficient ferries. Ferry companies have monopolised the only mode of transport available between the island and the mainland for far too long. A cheaper alternative would be a significant investment for the Isle of Wight and would also help it keep up with the rest of the country's economy. Increased opportunities for the younger island residents to gain employment with decent salaries on the mainland without the high fare to travel there. Ease of movement both directions. Can travel when we want not when the ferry companies decide we can. Potential for increased investment on the island by companies who are currently put off by the inconvenience of ferry travel/cost. I think it is only a good thing for the growth of the Isle of Wight and the people. Because it looks like it's going backwards Job opportunities for island residents will increase meaning higher wages Job opportunity/ health care links Tunnel or bridge, i think will bring visitors back to our beautiful island and breath life back into it , also give easier access for islanders to make more frequent visits to mainland to visit family and friends Cost in travel and freedoms Current crossings are far too expensive, infrequent and unreliable. The IOW has the largest population of any UK island, yet does not have an airport, road link or rail link. It would bring a lot more investment to the Isle if Wight Island strongly needs an economic boost. As a resident of the IOW the extra time it takes to get a boat to the mainland makes most day trips more trouble then it's worth. A fixed link will bring so many opportunities to us! Better competition to island employers forcing them to pay a proper wage for skilled workers! The possibilities of being able to just nip to Bournemouth or Brighton and not having to make a weekend out of it. Shopping in a high street that is worth going to and PAGE 333 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • hopefully a more cost effective solution to leaving the island more often. IT IS EXACTLY WHAT THIS ISLAND NEEDS TO BRING IT TO THE FUTURE! I am a self employed musician on the Isle of Wight, myself and my band probably spend up too 2k a year on ferry travel a year which is extortion if not more, we go to mainland on a weekly basis and not having a fixed link makes it extremely difficult for us to commit to certain enquires, it would also be nice to be able to drive home for a change instead of waiting for the 4am ferry! Having a fixed link would make it easier for business to transport there stock over as well as bringing tourism to the isle of wight, it would also give islanders the opportunity to search further for job opportunities on the mainland as it would be more accessible It's about time. It's too expensive to cross the solent at present and because island resources are dwindling to put it politely, the island needs access to facilities elsewhere as well as jobs and businesses picking up, importing/exporting stock. Equally as such mainland residents would be able to visit relatives more easily with a tunnel which improves family life. There needs to be an alternative route ti the mainland, i am not the only island resident who finds it difficult to go to the mainland to visit family because of the extortionate ferry prices Services on the island are diminishing and costs to travel on and off are adding to that. This would boost so much - health care, education and business. Also there are areas that are very difficult to recruit to - social work, teaching and health care professionals. Easier access could only improve this. "Ease of travel at any time with no disruptions will make the Island a better place to live in every way . Health care and education us our economy being the most important reasons people need ease of access to and from the mainland . " A fixed link will result in ease of travel for people travelling to and from the island hopefully at a lower cost.I believe it will encourage more businesses to come to the island, tourism will increase, hospital visits to the mainland will be less stressful and it can only be beneficial for the island. Island economy is getting left behind the rest of South East. Reports suggest more healthcare will be centralised to mainland hospitals. Hard to recruit high calibre staff to schools, hospitals etc. Poor prospects for young people. Ferry companies not providing a public service as they run at times to suit their finances. I work on the mainland and it would be easier if I could drive on and off at a time which suits me not the ferry companies. "Because the ferries are a rip off and it would make the island more accessible the the rest of the U.K. Also I work on the mainland and live on the island but have to stay near work in the during the week so adds to my monthly outgoings " Gives ease of access on and off the Island without the hostage situation that the ferry companies presently operate A bridge isn't something that I particulary want or would like. But a tunnel sounds good if feasible Making it easier getting on and off the island can ONLY be a positive thing. The ferry is expensive, unreliable, it takes ages, and so few run. I have been stuck on the mainland at various times of the day or night. It makes returning to the island an unpleasant chore. I'd gladly pay a tunnel toll to escape the horrendous inconvenience of those bloody ferries. Tunnel less of an impact and reliable in poor weather Ease of access I feel stranded at times, I think the ferry companies get to hold us to ransom, with times of crossing and costs. I want to be able to get a cross the water at a time of my choosing PAGE 334 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • and after a long day travelling I don't wish to be stuck on my car waiting to cross as I've missed the boat and the next ones not for a couple of hours! It would increase competition for ferries and hopefully allow 24 hour access to mainland, no long gaps in service during winter! It would also young people to have greater choices in employment, housing etc etc. For the last 7 years we've seen the Island go down and people are just accepting it. School and businesses closed down. Bad ofset reports. Empty hotels. Closed shops. No professionals willing to move over. People talking of tourisms - uhm occasional buses with mid 80s elderly people. 60% of my patients being on benefits. Young people finding an excuse that they can not find a job. My children will eventually leave the Island. All I hear from people that do not want a fixed link is a selfish - We've come to the Island to retire and we do not want a Fixed link as we don't often need to get off it. All this lovely island needs is A FIXED LINK. ASAP. Because it will provide better access to and from the island, all day, everyday. Not weather dependant etc. "I grew up on the Island in the tourism industry and have watched the island decay in places do OK in others, as apart of the UK it falls behind in so many scocial and business ways. The tourism industry has been squeezed by a change in habits and the price structure of the ferries, holiday makers are penalised for taking long breaks, short breaks of 5 days or more increase car/passenger numbers. A fixed link will bring investment and improve infrastructure in so many ways. The mainland isn't much different from the island and it won't change it drastically, it will bring growth " "I feel a fixed link would be a great advantage to the young people of the IOW creating opportunities and broadening horizons. Education and healthcare is terrible on the island." We need 27/7 access to the mainland and reduced travel costs. The fixed link should exit near the new Garden City to reduce congestion on the Island roads The NHS and employment is dying on the iow and a link will give us a fighting chance. I don't see any negatives! it is only going to help the island in every way possible, jobs, healthcare, schools.. many more great things would be achieved from having a fixed link.. so many things pass this island simply because of the off putting ferry costs Need to be able to access the mainland at any time of day or night. Affordable, efficient access is essential for economic growth. Ferries are an outdated mode of transport and run for orofit at the user's expense. "Their are number of countries with island teritories are trying their best to connect each other thru the use of bridges and tunnels purely for quick transfort of business commodities, best alternative to travel in and out the island compared to ferries...less use of airlift for emergency purposes...make life more simple in catching any sort of appointment/s from island to mainland ie cathing a flight, other mainland doctors appoinment/s, ordering business item/s and any other stuff... i dont say that there is no negative effect on it... But the numbers of positive effect of having a fix link will have more productive life and make things simplier whenever a transportation topic is discuss, even if people like me choose to live in the island." Ease for business, healthcare on mainland and access for jobs on and off island The island is dying business and socially due to extortionate ferry prices creating excessive business costs and at the same time strangling tourism to the island. I would love to live on the island but cannot due to unreliable and expensive crossing costs. I would also love to bring my children up on the island but after school finishing they have very limited job opportunities due to the lack of diverse businesses on the island. PAGE 335 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I feel trapped on the island with its limited employment and social affects abd being able to visit my family as a non high earning family. It will provide better opportunities for the island and my children's education choices without having to leave the island which I will without a fixed link taking mine and my partners valuable employment skills Because it would allow people to travel between the 2 places at a much fairer prices than the ferries are charging which will increase tourism and as a result island wealth would be increased. It would also allow islanders to travel across a lot more and help them not feel so cut off from the real world and in turn make them want to stay rather than move away. The Island is dying fast, job creation, higher wages, higher house prices, would prefer free ferry travel for Islanders with no link, but that will never happen.. "I am fed up of paying extortionate amounts to visit family on the island. Last year a family member had a serious health issue and despite only working in the new forest it was too difficult to get over in the evenings and be back in time for work and i would have been unable to afford it. " I believe a fixed link would help the Islands economy but would prefer much cheaper ferry costs. Will make everything easier as an islander, more chance of employment make higher education more accessible, improve tourism just to name a few Something urgently needs to be done about the poor ferry service and spiralling costs Shortage of doctors and teachers might be eased if people could commute. Ferries effectively have a monopoly so can charge what they want. Fixed link would change that. I work on healthcare and we can't attract staff It's essential for our children's future opportunities. I hate being beholden to the ferries. With the high ferry prices and not regular enough service, this would provide a cheaper and more efficient way of travelling between the island and the mainland. As a result it would lower prices for businesses on the island as well as making the island a more feesable holiday destination. Freedom to come and go and improvement to both job opotunities and businesses It would be easier and cheaper to get to the mainland, you wouldn't be restricted by a timetable or by weather conditions dictating whether you make it across or not. It would also mean that smaller businesses won't be held back from mainland work because of the extortionate ferry prices The Ferrys are extortionate. It limits every aspects of our lives. I am fed up with being held to ransom by Ferryside companies For our Island to grow and develop we need to stay competitive. The ferry companies have a strangle hold on this competitive capability and it seems their grip is getting ever tighter. This is displayed by the ever increasing cost to travel and the timetable cut backs. A tunnel could well solve this. I propose that even if the tunnel cost matched the ferry price, the convenience of a tunnel would ensure it's usage and enable the Island growth we so desperately need, let alone the increased ability to export our goods and increase tourism. Because There isn't enough work on the Island, and what there is, is in the service industry, minimum wage and no prospects. More and more people are having to travel to the mainland for health care. The extra cost of the ferries limits tourism. Time involved in getting to the mainland. Cost and inconvenience of using the ferries when visiting family on the mainland and them visiting family on the Island. It would allow more students to attend university without the long ferry travels and costs, it would allow more tourism because it would be easier/quicker/ cheaper and a more reliable way of reaching the island. It would improve the island residents well being, they would be able to venture out more often, visit family and friends more often and have the opportunity to visit other shopping areas and restaurants, as well as visit nearby attractions along the coast. This must surely contribute towards having happier and healthier island residents? PAGE 336 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I can see no negative impact to travel or the local economy. There are millions of examples of where improvements in transport lead to greater prosperity. I was born an islander and lived most of my life as one it is my home.We must look to the future and the needs of our children our old and working comunity hospitals ect the island need this change to remain stable for the future we desprotly need a tunnel giving us acsess and all wether travel if for nothing else than emrgecy needs . I don't see how it can do any harm, apart from minor, mostly temporary, environmental impacts. Being able to travel to the mainland either for leisure or in the case of emergency without the need to make a booking on the ferries. Encouraging tourism, lowering prices of goods transported to the island. Ability to transport the sick hospitals on the mainland in the case of emergencies. The island is dieing the hospital can't cope there needs to be a fixed link otherwise we will sink It would make travel to and from the island easier, increase tourism and business. It would also mean weather wouldn't impact business. Cross Solent charges are way to high for island residents there needs to be a better quicker connection to the mainland and cheaper. It would give islanders more job opportunities. It would be easier to visit family and for family to visit us. It would give wider opportunities for education. Schools would be able to access educational sites on mainland more easily and cheaply. Good for island economy I moved away from the Island several years ago due to lack of career opportunities. Fixed link would improve that. In addition I visit family on the Island a lot less than I would like to as the ferry prices make it difficult to afford to visit. 24/7 access to and from the mainland. Cheaper and more convenient crossings for deliveries. Quicker access to special teams based on Mainland. Quicker and cheaper crossing costs. Easier for businesses to be based on the Island and supply the mainland. More tourism (both ways). We need it now before the island dies It cuts cost of commuting to mainland. It's easier in case of emergency to get to mainland (family on mainland or at hospitalonmainland) no relying on ferry The potential for more casual travel over will promote the island for day trips to mainland residence. It could also ease pressure on our hospital by making traveling to an alternative more of a feasible possibility. It could also help stop us islanders being 'stuck' when weather is too bad for the boats. Difficult and expensive access means the island is losing touch with the rest of the world.Job opportunities are very limited. The island needs a future and our young people need to be looked after with ease of transport back and forward to both the island and mainland Better & cheaper access for family to provide support to older relatives Our Hospital is on its knees cancelling operations daily because they cannot attract staff to stay over here due to the high costs involved with Ferry travel. We rely on the Air Ambulance to take emergencies to the mainland when a Tunnel could see ambulances get to mainland hospitals quickly. Our Schools are high on the list of underachieving, again unable to attract Teachers to stay. Our Children have to leave the Island to go to University when they could travel unrestricted daily via a Tunnel at a reasonable cost. The Ferries are poorly maintained (Google incidents to prove this, collapsed deck, fires etc) and are a disaster waiting to happen. This results in frequent cancellations. Fares are the highest compared to other cross Channel operators and increase massively during School holidays. Fares are structured unfairly and penalise the poor. The Ferries are frequently late, fog and high winds force cancellations, commuters are disrupted and are held to ransom with fewer sailings in the winter and evenings. The Island needs better with a fit for purpose cost effective fixed link giving unrestricted 24 hour access to and from the Island. The Council and local papers are held to ransom by the Ferry PAGE 337 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • companies and our MP is weak and too ineffective to pull his head out of the sand and to help the Island flourish. Tourism is almost dead over here, the Bestival, a massive money making festival has recently moved to the mainland due to the logistics and costs involved in bringing equipment and Artists to the Island. The Ferry Companies are killing the Island, we need a Tunnel now . I'll help them dig it, just get it built and save us I moved to the island in 2001, it has a huge effect on me visiting family and abroad and struggling with my mortgage due to higher costs and reduced work because of the ferry prevents me doing certain jobs due to it either puts the price up, I make a loss or scares customers off. Also impossible to get home late at night or emergencies in either direction. It's as if the island is held to ransom by private businesses and not even the government but yet it's letting them get away with it. When I first moved here I was happy with the service and price but there is now no going back due to greed from owners who have invested poorly in the businesses over the years. Positive because will boost house prices, improve prospects of secure jobs enabling people to travel to and from the island without having to pay extortionate ferry prices. Improves prospects for young people. Better work opertunities, will bring tourism to the island I am an islander living on mainland. My family all still on island. Die to cost of ferrys we do not get to visit each other much, with a reasonably priced tunnel we would be over all the time with our family spending money on the island "I think the island is dying. I have lived here only ten years, but I have seen a significant decline over that period: shops closing, attractions sold off for pennies, toilets closed, St. Mary's Hospital struggling, cancer patients having to cross Solent for treatment, an embarrassingly ancient, dilapidated train service, illiterate children, a surplus of DSS residents, increasing violence and desperation amongst the population, increasing frustration and anger over ferry prices - which have more than doubled in ten years (my pension has not) - declining tourism, an increase in the number of residents (overners) returning to the mainland etc etc etc." "Help with unemployment, help with businesses moving too the island. Encourage people to move here and work in London, which will increase spend on the island. Will be able to use other hospitals. Easier to get to other selective schools " It will be give everyone who travels from or to the island the freedom to come and go more freely Ease of getting to the mainland. More employment opportunities, better health and education. I believe it will boost tourism. The island will only go into more decay if something drastic doesn't get done Would prefer this to the current ferries but would prefer an island owned ,built and staffed ferry service. "For the benefit of sustaining a succsel thriving island in both business and tourism a FL is both essential and vital " I think the Island would remain an island but many of the negative effects would be reduced. It'll be cheaper and you can cross whenever you want. The current system of ferries puts off tourists, business and is damaging to the health service and education "Cost of ferry is affecting all aspects of Island life. Health care, education fail to receive top quality candidates as the cost of commute is astronomical. The cost for visitors to and from the island means it rivals the cost of some foreign holidays. PAGE 338 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It currently takes an hour + to travel 4miles. " I am from the island originally, but felt I had to move to the mainland in order to find work when I was younger. However, my family and friends are all still all on the island, and whilst I still live on the mainland I find it difficult and expensive to be able to visit home. I am thinking of starting my own family and would like to be able to move closer to my family, however with the ferry times and costs, I don't think this would be feasible for me to be able to commute to work from the island. I can't be the only person in the impossible situation of wanting to move to the island / wanting to spend more time there, but finding it difficult to be able to with the current transportation links available. The island is suffering drastically, businesses and tourism are affected massively and the island requires both to survive. It needs to be done the island is deteriorating because of lack of opportunity and reduccing trade on the island because of the ferry companies holding the islanders to ransome. Better access to services and greater opportunity for social mobility for those on South coast. It would increase tourism and make travel between the island and mainland considerably cheaper Because it would give us the freedom and save time as we could come and go as we please. Also businesses would gain more income as more travelers would be able to come to visit. Healthcare for one I have had friends that have had to endure cancer treatment everyday on the mainland. It's obvious how awful the travel arrangements are for this. Ie almost taking all day for a 15 minute treatment . Employability of dr's on the island. The island isn't attractive to many workers due to the problems with the ferries. I myself have to have an op in Portsmouth as st Mary's no longer do the procedure . Then there is the problem with sports people competing in mainland competitions. The ferry fares so expensive and if you miss the midnight boat 3 am is the next one. Great when you have to keep a load of youngsters occupied in a cold coach for hours . Getting goods to the island, we order things on line only to find they won't deliver to the island . I could go on and on Providing 24/7 access so I can visit elderly and disabled relatives more frequently and in an emergency, more quickly. To improve opportunities for employment of the iow people. And very definitely to access mainland healthcare facilities. We need a much more reliable way to get across to the mainland.Its the only way to ecourage business and young people to stay on the island with the easy access of a fixed link It would also enable many people to see family more often and not be held to ransom by the ferry companys. The many wasted hours having to sit on the ferry and extortionate prices. For easy access to mainland for especially for sick and elderly as well as working as there is not much jobs on the island Because the island is dying cos the cost of the ferrys It'll encourage more people to come over, even for a day the island is slowly dying Cheaper easier and better than boats! Plus a better train service on the island would be epic I think it would greatly help the island's economy, make it more appealing to businesses and private investment. Hate being held ransom by the ferry companies, would be good to travel to suit my needs instead of the ferry operators. If the ferries keep up-big their prices people will not visit the Island, the tourism trade will stop, businesses will suffer and close down, job will go PAGE 339 • • • • • • • • • • • "I am only a recent addition to the Isle of Wight but the lack of accessibility is a great concern. I'm doing a PhD and training to be an academic. Since there are no universities on the island I would be looking for a university position at a mainland university somewhere close to the island (my partner has his business here). However with the current transport options I cannot see commuting regularly being feasible and we would have to move off the island unless a fixed link became available. My partner has similar issues as I do with the accessibility at the moment since it really affects his business - we both struggle with the reliability and regularity of the ferries. (I could not get a job on a mainland university and be sure to make it in on time each day to teach since ferries are frequently cancelled or delayed!) The car ferries are also seriously overpriced making trips to the mainland only valid when they are a necessity. We cannot get off the island easily to visit relatives and friends and they cannot visit us. Watching my partner's business and many other independent businesses on the island I've been impressed with how innovative and entrepreneurial islanders are. It is shocking therefore that the council and MP demonstrate the opposite qualities and these passionate independent island businesses are struggling as a result. There are a number of reasons but for many the lack of a fixed link is one of the biggest. One of the key business areas affected is tourism and again I am shocked at how backwards the tourism industry is here. For a place which could have an incredibly successful tourism industry due to its natural qualities and appeal - and clearly has in the past - it seems to be really struggling at the moment and it is recorded in so many news outlets that people struggle to afford to come here. Why add an extra £150 to a journey when you could go to Cornwall and skip the ferry expense? Another area that I have first hand experience seeing struggling is the healthcare system - and from what I've heard from friends, the education system. Both seem to be in dire need of more - and better - staff and they are just not being retained because being trapped on an island with overpriced, unreliable ferries is not appealing to good teachers and healthcare professionals. I've worked a lot in Birmingham and Cambridge in recent years and one of the reasons both cities are thriving - especially Cambridge - is their excellent transport options which are both reliable, regular and affordable. As a young, well educated, community minded individual, I see many other such individuals on the island and I see them leaving. Like I and my partner will do at some point soon. The island needs innovative young people but they are being pushed away. Community and social places for young people are being closed down, schools are failing and young people are turning to vandalism and crime because they have nothing to fulfil and motivate them. Better access to the mainland would provide better teachers, more resources for community centres and activity hubs for young people, and more jobs and opportunities would open up. Young people will be encouraged to stay and innovate and help develop and grow the island into a successful hub for all sorts of industries - and I believe the island is capable of all of this. But at the moment it is has an aging population which is just growing and the young people are being pushed out. Without a fixed link the island will eventually wither and die. " "Expensive ferries, always late... A fixed link will bring opportunities in employment for people, tourism will pick up, generating more income for the IOW. " I feel that current ferry prices are stopping many people from working on the mainland, the Island has in my opinion very little opportunity for young people to obtain a well paid career, my own and friends sons have had to move off of the Island for better paid work, as they will never afford a house based on minimum wages paid here or the limited hours offered by many employers here. I also feel many holiday makers are put off from coming here as to bring a family and car here is very expensive, you can have an all inclusive holiday abroad for a cheaper price. Away days are also hampered by ferry prices as you PAGE 340 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • could pay a 100 pounds return ticket before you even start. A tunnel in my opinion would be fantastic for the Island in many ways It will allow freedom of movement to iow residents as more nhs services are moving to mainland! Will allow greater opportunities for school leavers and unemployed! "This would allow for the re-generation of the island, tourists should increase and allow businesses to develop. The Isle of Wight is turning into another victim of a seaside town disaster that's has happened all over the U.K. Anti-link argue that if you want to be part of the mainland then move over there. But there are many people who still would like to live on the island but have a better connection with the mainland. An alternative link should stop the monopolistic strategies that the ferry companies work by and allow the people to have a better choice. I agree that a feasibility study could work both ways, it could show positives for the fixedlinked but also negatives. So the only way to settle the debate as to whether a fixed-link is the right option is to see if it is feasible, if it's not then the outcome I believe is accepted. Therefore Pro and anti fixed link supporters should both welcome the feasability study and allow the study to look into and answer questions." Freedom of movement without restrictions of ferry timetables, pricing, ferry reliability and weather conditions. Easier access in either direction, without being limited by extortionate coats and infrequent crossing times. Giving islanders more freedom of travel for work or pleasure. Make it cheaper for tourists to start coming back to the island and improving our tourist trade again. It could create much more tourism for the island and would also make it loads easier for commuters that work and study on the mainland. Travel is far too expensive and not free flowing. As always the cost of leaving and returning to the island. Even if there was a fixed like I believe there should be a toll to use it. Easy to get off and on the island . May bring more business to the island Because the ferries are too exspensive! Healthcare would benefit! The emconomy on the island would benefit from tourism. Younger people would have better opportunities as they would be able to commute easier and less exspensive. "I am currently home educating my children as I am very unsatisfied with the schools on the island. Having previously worked in good and bad schools I feel like the fundamental change that is needed for the island is a fixed link that will make it easier, cheaper, reliable to travel to the mainland. And intice fantastic teachers and management for our education system. We haven't got a pool of innovative professionals here and the main reason I believe is the lack of a fixed link. I want to live on this beautiful island and see it prosper and grow. Many businesses, the hospital, schools and social issues could really benifit from the experience of top professionals who are not thinking about relocating to an island as it doesn't have the convenience - transport wise other places do. I also have felt the inconvenience of no fixed link for many years with my late Father who was treated at Queen Alexandra Hopspital in Cosham. I lived in a room for relatives there for a lot of time when he was very poorly as ferry times, (and prices) & unreliability were not at all condusive to commute. It made a very stressful and sad time even more so. With our current needs as a family with young Children & I run a small business from home (that experiences higher costs and fewer options with regards to logistics) we have been looking to relocate to the mainland. Ideally we could keep a place here but we would seriously struggle to visit as the ferry prices are so extortionate. I love the island but fail to see how we can progress without a FL." Although I have questions around the issues of traffic management and the environmental impact, I believe the positive impact that quick and affordable access to PAGE 341 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • mainland universities and employment (as well as increased affordability of Island holidays for mainland tourists) would benefit our Island greatly. It will be cheaper so more residents could benefit from visiting the mainland and tourists would be more likely to come here. The Island NEEDS to move forward into a diverse part of the United Kingdom, we are starting to fall behind in every aspect of economic life and opportunities. A fixed link would help integrate and help our children's futures. The ferries are too expensive and unreliable. They don't offer a 24/7/365 crossing and never will. More and more medical treatments are only provided on the Manland so the ability to make easy, reliable and economical crossings is becoming even more of a necessity for an aging population. GP surgeries are finding it ever more difficult to replace retiring physicians, even with large financial incentives offered as people do not wish to relocate here. Eduction is struggling because of the lack of experienced teachers willing to relocate. Opportunities for school leavers are limited with few manufacturing positions available on the Island. Training for and competing in sports competition/tournaments is made even more difficult because of the time and cost of travelling to the Mainland. People say house prices will increase making locals unable to afford them. They are unable to afford them anyway as low Island wages stop people obtaining mortgages. There is an argument that house prices are too low on the Island compared to similar regions in the south. Seriously, what negatives could there possibly be to, at the very least, ask for a feasiblity study? I'm stunned and disappointed that local councillors, who are elected to look after the best interests of their wards, appear so reluctant to even openly discuss this. The IOW needs easier access for numerous reasons Cheaper. Freedom of travel. 24/7 365 days of the year. It would hopefully reduce the cost of getting back and forth to the mainland and hopefully allow the island and businesses on it to flourish far more. We would not have to rely on boats and be restricted on when we can travel ,by the Times and weather . We need an easier and cheaper way to travel to and from the Island. I grew up on the Isle of Wight but have since moved away to find work and for convenience in every day life. The Island is slowly dying and I hate to see my childhood home so barren and empty because people and business cannot afford to visit. A tunnel is one possible way to revitalise the Island's economy. Ferries to expensive and take to look Get with the times dying island gone to the digs I would consider anything! In the 21st century we should not be held hostage by the ferry companies. Would boost the islands economics, held to ransom with ferries to much. 24 hour links to mainland Its got to be a good thing how cool would it be just to get in you car and go somewhere for the day without worrying about what time last boat coming back it. The Isle of Wight need easier access for mainlanders to visit to bring business. Also need better access to the mainland for locals for work, education and family. It's 2017 and it is far behind in a bad way, last time the island was prosperous was when the Victorians allowed better access via railway and ferries. We need to move with the times. We are held to ransom by the ferry companies. They are overpriced and poorly ran I believe it gives more choice not just to residents but to mainlanders. Crime is up, education down, NHS costs up, businesses failing, tourism down, tourist attractions closing, and yet the council does not believe the fact we have to cross water to connect to the mainland as a reason! Enabling faster, cheaper, constant access will drive up business, options and tourism...bringing benefits galore for the island in my opinion. Crime will not go up due to this, it already is due to lack of opportunites for the youth and out of work, which a link can relieve. PAGE 342 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Restrictive timetables and expensive fares are crippling the island Just keeping ferry transport is staying in the dark ages. It is expensive impractical and is wasteful on every level. Fixed links have been built all over the world and should be built on the Island Because of the lack of decent jobs on the island and the price and unreliability of the ferries The ferries are expensive. Hopefully a tunnel would be a more cost effective option. This in turn may attract more visitors and boost the islands economy. It would allow families on the mainland to care for elderly or sick relatives, when there is an already failing health service bearing the burden currently. There is a better chance of getting on the Island at any time. Ferries fill up....tunnels do not! Ease of access to medical care on the mainland; ease of access to family; ease of access to rail travel and airports; ease of access to other services, places to visit etc. To do away with the criminal prices and poor service of the ferry company's Very positive, mostly due of emergencies in regards to health & healthcare in general, having to travel over for hospital appts. Also having to use extortion ferry prices to travel to & from the island for work! Access to and from the island at all times regardless of the time of day or type of weather at the cheapest possible rate (£5 - £10 each way should be more than enough to cross such a small stretch if water) and as quickly as is safe to do so around 10 - 20mins should be more than enough time My son had to be transfered to Southampton from St Mary's. It took 2 hours. We could of done it in minutes not hours. My son died. Was a 2 hour transfer at fault. I will never know. We need a tunnel now if it saves another child. It would have paid for it. How much is a life. I am fortunate to be employed with an organisation that has discounted ferry fares. My daughter has grown up on the island and her options for work and housing has been seriously reduced as she has grown up. Access to the mainland will open up wider opportunities for her. "Easier to get on and off the island Too expensive to get off the island Ferry Delays, unpredictable and not frequent enough service Better for the island tourism More opportunities for islanders " The island is dying, employment is poor, towns are full of pound shops, house prices are falling way behind the rest of the south coast. Ferries are becoming more expensive and less frequent. Ferry staff are too often rude and unhelpful making travel to/from stressful Easy, low cost access 24/7. The weather makes our existing cross Solent travel unreliable, as does mechanical failure, crew sickness etc etc. Price is important, but it's not the only issue. Restrictions on sailing affect our ability to travel, socialise and entertain. It seriously affects us during medical eemrgencies too. Due to my children having to leave the island to find decent work.most of my family now live on the mainland.if there was decent jobs here,they would not of left. The cost and limitations of current cross-Solent travel are causing the economic asphyxiation of the island. Today, Bestival - tomorrow St Mary's, GKN? It needs to be a living, growing, thriving community - not some yesteryear theme park for NIMBYS and 2nd home owners. Only a fixed link will avert its current doomed trajectory. Positive as the island needs it for hospitals,also for kids to be able to travel easier for colleges etc A tunnnel would bring endless positive opportunities to the whole of the islands economy, not to mention the benefits to people's way of life e.g. Health, work and social. PAGE 343 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • As long as it. accommodate walking and cycling independent of motor vechcles then I think it will be a good idea. A tunnel would provide reliable, all weather, any time access to and from the island and break the monopoly of the ferry companies. A lot of towns on the island are deprived. Having a FL can only bring opportunities for Islanders to be able to travel to the mainland for work without having to pay extortionate fares & when they want to travel rather than when the ferries are running. Make the island more accessible for tourists and encourage bigger companies to come over and create more jobs "Giving residents the opportunity to have access to the mainland and the wider world would great and option for younger people to explore a greater opertunity for employment. Even if there was a charge of £5 off island and £10 from mainland would still be cheaper and more accessible to everyone. " Same as above points, the island is dying. Go to lymington on a Saturday any weekend of the year and it's thriving. The iow could be like that with a fixed link. Freedom of movement. Saves time for small stretch of water. Easier to get to mainland especially in an emergency 24/7, no build up of traffic at certain times just a steady flow. Reliable cost. It will make trips to the mainland for holidays, work, travel etc a lot simpler. Cheaper. And quicker. It would help the island residents have better jobs,healthcare,education and ease getting to and from mainland without being held ransom by ferry company's "The Isle of Wight is a long suffering blackspot in most of the above listed areas, socio and economic with education and employment suffering due to its geographical cut off from the rest of the UK and due to the inflated costs of crossing the Solent with its current transport infacstructure. The island is also heavily dependent on tourism and the swing in tourism trends, coupled with expensive transport links is causing a demise with day trips on foot now being exceded by modern use of motor vehicle. The cost and the hassle deters many from visiting the island due to time restraints and expense. This needs investigating in a feasibility study." To arrest the continuing economic decline and to facilitate local opportunity for the island's younger families. To improve essential rapid access to essential mainland healthcare services. To make Wight a connected island that attracts new business, more tourists, more professionals. We need an alternative to the ferry services who can decide on how and when we travel to the mainland and how much it will cost us Easier to get employment on mainland, should push wages and standard of living up. Much more freedom without having to pay a fortune. Better quality of life all round! i believe a fixed link road tunnel would have positive effects because the people of the island would be given more freedom to travel to the mainland without having to worry about whether the ferries will be on time, having technical difficulties, overbooked etc. i believe that without a fixed link the island will continue to lose business and carry on deteriorating as a tourism hot spot, the island is a wonderful place to live especially for the younger and older generations, but having to rely on ferry services alone is very restricting and makes living on the island feel more like a prison sentence than the relaxed lifestyle we want it to be. I think hope the council will see that a fixed link is needed to keep this Island alive. We need a fixed link to allow large companies to move their business to the Island and create PAGE 344 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • jobs for Island people. Plus it will encourage visitors to the Island who would not normally think to come. You need a more less expensive form of travel to and from the island. Otherwise the island will die Business and prosperity would improve and islanders who have a high proportion of elderly people would have access to better health care. The iow is dieing . It needs new blood to breath life Ito business, tourism and education. The history of the iow will deteriorate if money and interest dwindles more . I had to move as I couldn't commute daily because of cost . "Better access to hospital appointments! Better access for visitors to the Island" The island will die without better, easier, cheaper ways to get to the mainland, not just for hospital appointments, but for the flow of investment. travel anytime you like not held to ransom by ferry operators, could encourage people to commute to island for work in healthcare and education. Ferries have had a monopoly and ruined the islands economy wightlink are the worst More people will travel to the island by tunnel as the ferry companies are unreliable and expensive. Tourism and the island in general are being held to ransom by the ferry charges and service. It puts people off from coming here. Why pay the ferry when they can stay another week the other side of the water or go abroad... Allows families to see more of each other, so elderly relatives can stay on the island with carers on the mainland Any way that oncreases the competitiveness or variety of means to cross the Solent can only be positive. Opportunities for residents from employment to shopping to education, etc It will encourage more people to visit the island. Many people choose Cornwall because they don't have the added cost and hassle of getting a ferry. Some people are scared of boats! Something needs to be done for future generations. Better for everyone It will be quicker to cross for emergency services and computers! Will be cheaper so more tourists will come to the island and help businesses grow. Less delays and will be able to get across anytime. It's a no brainer, we need to reduce the cost of travel and join the 21st century The ferry companies are monopolies and therefore can charge us what they want. There isn't a great deal of difference between them cost wise. You cannot just 'nip' over and I find this is a negative for the teenagers or young adults looking to broaden their horizons as an educator it is hard to inspire them as all they can see is Ferries and cost. The island needs a link to ensure good prospects for future generations. Health care, education and business are key to any successful society. If we carry on without a fixed link, the island will die. The current ferry service is unreliable and expensive which is effecting the day to day life of all aspects of island life. The ferry service is also very profitable and lining the pockets of the ceo's and other senior management without any major advantage to the island. I am retired and ferry costs prevent me from frequent contact with my family. We need an affordable way to travel to and from the mainland for the Island commercial, social and tourism future. The ferries do not allow 24/7 travel at an affordable price. Scottish Islands are better off yet we're both under the same government! The island is dying due to poor infrastructure to the rest of the country. We struggle to get any sort of businesses and employment for schools and nhs because people do not want to live here due to the poor connections. A fixed link would improve this greatly. PAGE 345 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • because the ferry service is unreliable and expensive and leading to young people who go to university rarely returning to live here, problems getting professionals to move here, and so an aging population with no thriving business. A bridge or tunnel would solve this. After living here all my life I plan to move away, I won't if there is a fixed link. It will enable FREEDOM of movement, crucial in the 21st century to business, development of our children and for safety reasons in case of a major incident ! It would also, presumably be somewhat cheaper than the current cross solent transport carriers and will be operational regardless of the weather meaning more reliability and sustainability especially for businesses! economy here needs it to thrive I answered positive because having to rely on an unreliable, expensive ferry service is ridiculous and with government cuts to all sectors our island is becoming a wasteland. Should have been done 20 years ago. Positive for ease of commuting and will bring more people to island Would not be held to ransom, and being able to travel at time to suit not time to suit ferry companies. I feel it is vital for the financial stability of the island Because the ferry companies operate for the benefit of their share holders not the islanders or tourist! Because the future prosperity of the Island is at stake Provision of 24/7/365, fixed cost, no booking or queuing, access to and back from the UK mainland would save my sole trader business a huge amount of time and cost annually. "To enable people to see their families on a regular basis. To help people gain employment To help local businesses on the island " Positive for the people who live here and have family on the mainland. No more waiting for delayed ferries. No more price hikes at popular times. I would willingly pay a toll for the tunnel to have the freedom to come and go as I want. Cheaper and 24/7 access would improve the Island's communication with the mainland. People's businesses would take off, commuters would take more jobs on the island and island commuters would bring more money back home to the island. The island is on a rapid decline in all areas. We are already considered decades behind the mainland and this is ever increasing. Businesses are closing, investment is going elsewhere and we need to stop this. A cost effective solution is needed in order to turn this around. Our healthcare system is struggling, a tunnel would help elevate these types of problems. A study is needed, and if the island votes in favour, is the government listening and will their pockets be deep enough to make it happen! Travel costs, travel flexibility, travel time, poverty on the Island as a result of lack of investment due to isolation because of travel difficulties. The ferrys are a rip off and killing the island off this is the only way to be able to get to and from the island quickly and fairly PAGE 346