THE Isle of Wight could get more money from government, after being recognised as ‘uniquely isolated’.

After lobbying by Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely, and the Isle of Wight Council, the government has released a document in which it acknowledges the Island’s unique case.

In ‘a review of local authority needs, relative resources and transitional arrangements’, released in December, it said: “The Isle of Wight is a uniquely isolated and remote authority as it is only possible to reach a major town or city from households on the Island via a ferry journey.

“The government therefore considers it necessary to take account of the additional time taken by ferry transport in any measure of remoteness, including the time taken on board the ferry and at embarkation and disembarkation.”

In a 2015 study by the University of Portsmouth, the extra cost of providing local government services on the Isle of Wight — also known as the Island factor — was estimated at £6.4 million a year, which is an additional three per cent on the public service provision.

A motion, submitted for tonight’s full council by Cllr Debbie Andre (Independent), calls for the council to lobby the government for additional money to be allocated by the inclusion of ‘disconnect criteria’ in the proposed foundation formula.

However, the motion has been amended by Cllr Chris Whitehouse (Conservative) who ‘welcomes the success of lobbying efforts’ made so far.

The amendment adds: “[The council] further welcomes the additional inclusion in that document of an acceptance that some local authorities experience unique pressures in relation to their geography and isolation, including islands and coastal areas, and resolves to continue to work in constructive dialogue with the current sympathetic minister to ensure that this acceptance in principle is reflected in the final funding formula.”

The issue will be debated tonight at County Hall at 6pm.