As part of consultations on the Medina Estuary Management Plan (MEMP), we have corresponded with the Isle of Wight Estuaries Project Partnership on the future of the derelict Saunders-Roe (SaRo) site just north of The Folly Inn, and on footpath and cycleway provision between Newport and East Cowes.  The MMA is keen to form alliances with like minded bodies with the aim of greatly improving the visual environment and leisure facilities on the eastern side of the estuary.

In respect of the SaRo site, the derelict buildings and security fencing represent an eyesore in a very attractive section of countryside and for many years this site has been the subject of trespass and various acts of antisocial behaviour.  It also suffers from contamination.  The MMA believes this state of affairs had been left to fester for far too long and is happy that some sort of action has now been taken to at least improve security and clear the site.  

For the longer term, it is understood that the site is earmarked for low-key marine related employment use.  We await developments with interest.

The Estuaries Project together with various interested parties such as the IW Ramblers and Newport Rivers Association, has been assessing the viability of a “greenway” route from Newport to East Cowes, a feasibility report having been carried out.  The objective is to connect the towns by way of both sustainable transport, and a recreational route for a wide variety of user groups.  In this context, a greenway is a path for use by walkers, cyclists and, so far as possible, people with mobility difficulties.  We are very supportive of this and we believe that the route of the Medina Greenway should, in all cases where possible, comply with the national policy of maintaining and extending public access to river banks and that, where necessary, the path should be raised to avoid flooding problems (similar to the path on the eastern bank of the River Hamble).   We would certainly want such a route to go alongside the foreshore in front of the SaRo site and beyond to Kingston.  We understand that this may be a historic lost right of way.

We are keen to work with other organisations and individuals who have an interest in these matters.