27.4.2026
The CEO of Visit Isle of Wight has issued a stark warning to Island Roads, calling for immediate intervention to address what is described as a growing crisis caused by poorly coordinated roadworks across the Island.
CEO Dominic Wray, writing on behalf of Visit Isle of Wight and the wider business community, has formally raised concerns about the significant and measurable financial damage being inflicted on local businesses by ongoing road closures and diversions.
In his open letter to Island Roads, Dominic Wray said, “The economic stakes could not be higher,” adding, “The Isle of Wight’s economy is uniquely dependent on accessibility. When roads become inaccessible, the entire economic ecosystem is placed at risk – and that is exactly what is happening now.”
Tourism contributes more than £500 million annually to the Island’s economy, with approximately 2 million visitors each year. The sector accounts for around a quarter of local jobs and GDP – almost double the national average – making the Island particularly vulnerable to disruptions in transport infrastructure.
Recent examples highlight the severity of the issue. One business reported losses exceeding £1,500 in a single week due to roadworks and extended diversion routes. Hospitality venues have described empty tables, cancelled bookings, and a sharp decline in passing trade. In some cases, journeys of just a few miles have taken up to 90 minutes, severely impacting both customers and staff.
Newly established businesses have been particularly hard hit. One restaurant, open for just ten weeks, has seen bookings fall dramatically following nearby road closures, with the owner citing serious cash flow concerns in an already challenging industry climate.
Dominic has emphasised that these cases are not isolated. “This is a pattern – and it is getting worse,” he said.
Concerns have also been raised by local councillors, who have noted widespread disruption across the road network and its negative impact on businesses, services, and residents. Despite this, the response from Island Roads has been described as insufficient given the scale of the problem.
At the heart of the issue is a lack of coordination and communication. Multiple major roadworks projects are being carried out simultaneously on key routes, with little apparent consideration for the cumulative economic impact. Businesses have reported receiving little to no advance warning of closures, no clear signage indicating they remain open, and no direct point of contact for support or information.
Visit Isle of Wight is now calling for immediate and concrete action.
Within 14 days, the organisation is demanding the establishment of a formal communication channel between Island Roads and business representatives. This would ensure advance notice of planned works, clear timelines, and timely updates on any changes.
Within 30 days, a full review of current and upcoming roadworks is required, with a commitment to better coordination and the avoidance of simultaneous closures on critical routes serving the same areas.
In addition, Visit Isle of Wight is calling for direct and ongoing engagement between Island Roads’ senior leadership and the business community, with transparent reporting on how decisions around scheduling and coordination are made.
“The time for correspondence is over,” Dominic added. “We are seeking a meeting within the next ten working days and expect to see clear commitments – not just assurances.”
With a resident population of around 145,000 supporting a visitor economy that welcomes millions each year, the Island’s reliance on accessible infrastructure is critical. Dominic concluded that decisions around roadworks are not merely operational – they have direct consequences for livelihoods, businesses, and the long-term sustainability of the Island’s economy.