Isle of Wight Council : Support for Island rail system

23 Jan 2018

A vision for modern rail services and possible line extensions across the Island has been given unanimous support by councillors.

A motion at full council (17 January) reaffirmed the council's key role in ensuring residents have a fully integrated rail system that could link up with the Island's steam railway, plus the possible reopening of previously closed branch lines.
The motion said organisations should look at both heavy and light rail options on the Island and the line must remain part of the new South Western Railway (SWR) franchise.
A consideration of a link with the Island's steam railway to allow an extension from Havenstreet to St John's Station and from Wootton to Newport Harbour was also part of the vote.
'The council has a big role to play in pushing for a modern and extended Island Line that meets the needs of residents and cuts traffic congestion,' said council leader Dave Stewart.
'We need to think flexibly about what can be done to improve services and look at all options, including light rail, if that would allow us to have a direct link from Ryde to Newport for example.
'Government talk of reopening closed lines to meet demand is also exciting but everyone recognises there are many hurdles to overcome on the Island to make this happen and we need feasibility studies and consultation.
'However, that does not mean we should not be ambitious and do all we can as a council to work together with SWR, the steam railway and the government to look carefully at what can be done.
'The council has welcomed the recent SWR consultation on Island rail services and we want to see investment in the Island Line as it's much needed, so the mood music at the moment is good.'
In addition, MP Bob Seely was asked to speak to Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling to ask for the funding of a feasibility study for a possible extension of rail services to Newport and Ventnor.

The council will now support South Western Railways to develop a full business case which will be submitted to the Department for Transport by 31 May.