In addition to the massive programme of highways improvements Island Roads is currently undertaking, the company is committed to supporting the local Island community during its time on the Island. To do this, the company has helped to establish the Isle of Wight Foundation, a registered charitable trust that focuses on combining the skills of Island Roads’ staff, together with financial assistance, to help community schemes and projects on the Island. The IW Foundation is funded by the companies behind Island Roads, not by any monies linked to the Highways PFI contract.

The foundation has distributed almost £85,000 to eight Island charities in its 2024 round of giving, taking the overall total to more than £900,000 in the last 11 years. The donations this year, worth more than £40,000, come from the foundation established by the companies behind Island Roads – Ringway Island Roads, Meridiam, Island Roads Services and Vinci Concessions.

Rob Gillespie, chair of the foundation’s trustees, said: “We are proud to have gone past the £900,000 landmark and particularly pleased that we have supported eight amazing charities in 2024.

• The 4Ps Vectis Radio Training School – £6,600 for this radio training school designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to produce and present their own radio programmes while boosting much-needed confidence and communication skills. The 4Ps in the name stands for ‘Presenting, Production, Podcasting and Promoting’. The training School covers a range of topics.

Ian Mac, Vectis Radio station manager, said: “We’re over the moon that, once again, Island Roads has placed trust in our award-winning project—a lifeline that empowers young people with confidence and skills here at the station.