A top-level summit is to be held in Southampton next month to launch the Solent Free Port.

Much of the Isle of Wight has been included in the Freeport catchment area and MP Bob Seely told the Isle of Wight County Press last year that it would be good news for jobs for Islanders, particularly in the Medina Valley.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak gave the Solent Freeport the green light in February 2021.

The Solent Summit on June 8 will see the launch of the freeport and the Solent LEP's long term economic strategy to put the Solent firmly on the map.

Top yachtswoman Dee Caffari has been invited to speak at the event. 

Rachael Randall, Isle of Wight-based chair of the Solent LEP, said: "As the first woman to have sailed single-handed and non-stop around the world in both directions, Dee is the ideal person to articulate the aspiration and ambition we have for the Solent and all those who live and work here."

"Like many coastal communities, the Solent faces challenges in terms of productivity and our Solent 2050 strategy outlines how we will work with partners to level up our region, create jobs, drive innovation and ensure a prosperous economy where communities thrive."

The Solent LEP says establishing a freeport in the Solent is a key component of the Solent 2050 long-term economic strategy. 

It says tt will unlock billions of pounds' worth of investment, create tens of thousands of new jobs and play a critical role in achieving national levelling up ambitions.

Brian Johnson, chair of the Solent Freeport, said: “The Solent Freeport is a once-in-a-generation opportunity which will benefit not only our region but the whole of the UK."

Read more: What is the Solent Freeport and what will it mean to the Isle of Wight

At the event, investors and businesses will be able to find out more about the opportunities available through the freeport and meet the partners involved.

The Solent Summit will also include a seminar programme for business leaders which supports the Solent 2050 strategy.

Guests will be able to find out more about funding opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs, how the region's universities are the catalysts for unlocking high skilled jobs, the environmental and economic impact of the unique natural capital of the region; and how to connect the skills and talents of those in our communities to the benefits of economic prosperity.

You can register to attend the Solent Summit HERE

The Solent Summit takes place on Wednesday 8 June at Horizon Cruise Terminal, Southampton.

For more information CLICK HERE.