Drone trial paused following residents' concerns

Plans for a new drone delivery trial have been paused following objections from locals.

The service would see drones delivering goods, with up to six flights a day to and from Mornington Road car park on the Isle of Wight.

But some residents previously said the Cowes site was "inappropriate".

Isle of Wight Council said the start date would be postponed by one week to allow it to meet with residents in person to discuss their concerns.

The trial was set to begin on 7 August and end on 7 February, with the car park closed over this period.

Inteliports, the company behind the scheme, said it had "surveyed several sites across the island" but found the car park to be the most feasible option.

But concerns were raised by locals, who said the site was used all year round, with the closest car park "almost two miles away".

They also criticised the lack of consultation offered by the council. The public were not invited to its initial meeting due to space.

The local authority thanked residents and businesses in Cowes for their feedback.

A spokesperson said: "We appreciate the time taken to express concerns and have heard feedback.

"We have therefore decided to delay the start of the trial for one week to allow an opportunity to meet with residents in person to discuss concerns."

An event where residents can voice their feedback would be held later in the week, they added.

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