Drone delivery trial on Isle of Wight postponed until after summer break

The Council say they will engage more with local residents over the proposed closure of the Mornington Road car park

Author: Cam HallPublished 14th Aug 2024

A drone delivery trial on the Isle of Wight has been postponed again as concerns among local residents continue.

The island's Council say the six-month trial will not start now until after the summer holidays as discussions continue over the closure of the Mornington Road car park in Cowes.

It is set to close to allow six daily flights to transport goods to and from the mainland, but some residents have expressed concern closing the popular parking spot would be "inappropriate."

But the council hope postponing the trial will allow for more time to discuss licence conditions for access to the car park during the closure.

An Isle of Wight Council statement said it "appreciates the opportunity" to meet with residents last week to discuss their concerns.

"Following feedback from residents and other local stakeholders, the council has asked Inteliports to postpone any trial until after the summer holidays. This provides the council with time to consider the licence for access to the site and will provide more information as soon as it can.

"The carpark will therefore not be closed from Wednesday 14th August 2024."

Southampton-based Inteliports, who are running the trial, hope using drones will be a faster and greener way to transport goods between the Isle of Wight and the mainland.