The RNLI has bought the Old Custom House in Watch House Lane, Cowes, for their new lifeboat station in the Isle of Wight town. It will give their volunteer crew faster access to the Solent.

A significant contribution towards the new station came from the Island Sailing Club in return for access rights. Modifications to the building will enable a B class Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat to be housed there.

Work on the modifications, subject to planning approval, could start in 2010. Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Station currently operates from a site in Shepherds Wharf Marina, Medina Road.