THE TOWN WITH ALL THE GIFTS

In plans and policies for 15 years and more, Ryde is the town ‘most likely to succeed’. Its extraordinary setting, the depth and breadth of its cultural and natural content, its public assets, its architectural beauty, its role as both Island destination and Island gateway, and the active participation of its community in so much of its shared and civic life, are all the ingredients for success. Yet Ryde’s great potential to deliver the commonwealth of public wellbeing that it promises remains unfulfilled. This is not for want of resolution or conviction, there are so many individuals, groups and organizations committed to the town. It seems truer to say that what is needed is that single focus of purpose, consistently and repeatedly applied, and designed to be effectively shared between agents and across sectors.

A catalyst is needed for change, and there has never been such active chemistry in Ryde as now. The focus on regeneration, the evolving Island Plan, projects for public estate and buildings, national funding successes and the award of Biosphere, are all overlapping and interacting.

There is a unique opportunity now, in the hands of the Town Council, to set in motion a plan that will celebrate the distinctive characteristics of place while demanding the best of the new, so that quality and authenticity adds richness to a life in Ryde.