THE postponed Isle of Wight Council cabinet meeting is expected to go ahead this evening (Monday) despite four cabinet members — half of all those on the committee — testing positive for Covid.

It was set to take place nearly two weeks ago but was rescheduled at the eleventh hour, following a positive lateral flow test.

Speaking at the time, the council's chief executive, John Metcalfe, said the precautionary decision was not made lightly.

Now, Cllr Lora Peacey-Wilcox, leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said four cabinet members, out of a possible eight, have tested positive for Covid-19 and are isolating.

Cllr Peacey-Wilcox said it is hoped those isolating will be able to join the meeting virtually to add to discussions, so long as technology is working with them and not against them.

If cabinet members attend virtually, however, they are unable to vote.

Only those at County Hall will have a vote because the government did not renew specially introduced legislation that allowed decisions to be made by councillors attending meetings by video link.

Final checks were being carried out this morning, October 25, said Cllr Peacey-Wilcox, to ensure the top Isle of Wight councillors were okay, and safe, to take part in the meeting.

Council meetings resumed in person in May with social distancing measures in place, although they started to lessen in recent months.

Decisions made tonight could see important ticket items concluded, including the potential approval of the Ryde Interchange transport scheme, which is already on a 'very tight timeframe'.