State of the Island Debate

The Island's leading independent news outlets Island Echo and the Isle of Wight Observer are teaming up to host the State of the Island Debate – bringing together influential voices to discuss the most pressing issues facing our Island.

The event coincides with Indie News Week - which highlights the importance of independently owned and managed news media.

The State of the Island Debate is free-to-attend and will take place on Friday 13th June, from 6pm to 8pm, at the Riverside Centre in Newport, with doors opening from 5.30pm.

Chaired by Marc Morgan-Huws, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, the evening will feature a panel of key local figures debating topics such as the Island’s struggling economy, rising ferry costs, education challenges and NHS services.

Audience capacity is limited to 200, and although entry is free, pre-registration is required. Tickets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Limited parking is available on site at the Riverside Centre for both events, with additional council parking available at Newport Quay and Sea Street.

The Riverside Centre's bar will be open throughout the evening.

We expect demand to be high - if you are unable to use the tickets you have reserved, please cancel them to allow more Islanders to attend this important community event. Please reserve a maximum of two tickets per person. Multiple reservations may be cancelled by the organisers at their discretion.

Those who sign up to attend the event will also receive the free daily newsletter from Island Echo and a free digital subscription to the Isle of Wight Observer every Friday morning.