By Rufus Pickles, Local Democracy Reporter – Isle of Wight

A “visionary” tidal sea pool project has gained the backing of the Isle of Wight Council.

The policy, finance and resources committee (PFRC) yesterday evening (October 9) unanimously voted to support ‘in principle’ the Isle of Wight Sea Pool (IWSP), which would be built at Yaverland.

Councillors decided to approve a Letter of Intent which will enable IWSP, a non-profit company, to start looking for project finance.

The letter affirms County Hall’s willingness to lease council-owned land for the pool, subject to planning consent, a sound business case and further public consultation.

IWSP’s preferred location for the facility is a 70m stretch of foreshore within the G to H section of the Yaverland Sea Defences, next to Culver Parade.

Addressing the chamber, IWSP director Sue Barker described the bid as a “unique, low maintenance, sustainable and accessible sea water asset” which will be free for the public all year round.

The pool would promote “healthy lifestyles, community engagement, appreciation of our coastal landscape and marine environment”.

It was, she added, a “celebration of the Island” as a “designated UNESCO biosphere”.

The Isle of Wight was awarded Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO in 2019 – a recognition of its unique combination of nature, people and places, according to Isle of Wight Biosphere.

Isle of Wight Council leader Phil Jordan and chair of PFRC said: “This is a visionary project that aligns with our goals for sustainable tourism and community wellbeing.

“The sea pool has the potential to become a landmark attraction for the Island, and I’m pleased we’re enabling the group to take the next steps toward making it a reality.”

Cllr Ian Ward, the Conservative member for Sandown South, said: “The sea pool proposal is an exciting opportunity to bring something truly unique to our Island — something that supports health, wellbeing, tourism and the regeneration of Sandown.

“I’m pleased to see it progressing and look forward to further engagement with the community as plans develop.”