A controversial drone trial between the Isle of Wight and the New Forest has been delayed — but only by another week.

It follows concerns from residents, who cited a lack of consultation and concerns over wildlife.

The six-month trial had been due to take flight from Cowes yesterday (Wednesday, August 7).

But the Isle of Wight Council said it has 'heard' feedback and a decision has been taken to delay the start of the trial for one week to allow an opportunity to meet with residents in person to discuss concerns.

A spokesperson said: "The regeneration project team wishes to thank local residents, businesses and councillors in Cowes for sharing their feedback regarding the upcoming Inteliports drone trial in Mornington Road Car Park."

An event is taking place this week, giving priority to local residents in the area surrounding the trial location.

As previously reported, operator Inteliports hopes the project will create a drone corridor to Fawley on the mainland, improving the community's access to goods and decarbonising Island logistics.

Last week, residents gathered at Mornington Road Car Park in Cowes, where commercial drone flights are due to take off and land.

Shouts of "no drones here" and banners saying 'no drone zone' were held aloft as more than 50 people turned out.

David Clementi, who lives about 20 yards from the car park, said at the time: "We, the residents who elect the councillors, are the most important stakeholder and we have not been talked to at all.

"How can a site in the middle of Cowes could possibly be chosen as a sensible logistics hub for the Island? It's ridiculous."

The council was criticised for not following 'due process', which it denied.

A spokesperson said the car park sees "very limited" use.

"In a full year, we would expect approximately 850-900 transactions," a spokesman said.

"We would expect 130-150 of these transactions to be in the period August 8 to February 8 that the trial has been granted."