Island Line trains return for first time since January
It follows a £26 million project to revitalise the line
It's taken seven months longer than expected - but trains have returned to the Isle of Wight's Island Line this morning (November 1st).
The first passenger train to run on the island since January set off from Ryde St John's Road at 5.35, taking customers up to Ryde Pier Head before heading south to Shanklin.
To the delight of a gathering of people both at the station and onboard, the new Class 484 train set off at 5:35am – taking customers up to Ryde Pierhead before heading 8.5 miles south to Shanklin.
The first train follows a £26 million transformation of the railway’s trains, stations and infrastructure, which included replacing old Tube trains dating back to 1938 - which had served the island since 1989.
These trains have been replaced with the new Class 484 fleet, which date back to the 1980s and feature upgraded interiors, wheelchair spaces and free WiFi.
To complement the new trains, the Island’s rail infrastructure has been drastically improved, with upgraded tracks helping customers to enjoy a smoother ride and raised platforms set to improve accessibility.
South Western Railway’s Managing Director, Claire Mann, said:
“We are so excited to welcome our customers back onboard having completed the biggest upgrade to the Island Line in over 50 years.
“From new trains to improved stations, the long list of benefits that come with this upgrade will give a real boost to the Isle of Wight’s public transport infrastructure, connecting communities and making it easier for visitors to explore the Island.”
Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely said:
“I’m delighted that the new trains are finally now in operation, they have been a long time coming.
“When I was first elected as the Island’s MP in 2017 the future of Island Line was uncertain. Thanks to a team effort of local campaigners, members of the previous council administration, and myself, we persuaded government to underwrite this investment.
“I am grateful to South Western Railway and the government for listening to us and I am glad to see the upgrades finally come to fruition with this significant investment.
“This is another good day for the Island. We now have decent trains running on an improved track which will make travelling easier and more comfortable for Islanders and visitors.
“This improved service will give a boost to the Island’s tourist economy and allow visitors to continue to access the award-winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet through the interface at Smallbrook Junction.
“I look forward to seeing these trains carrying thousands of passengers over the coming year.”
Here's which improvements have been made:
Improved track, which will greatly improve the ride comfort compared to the bumpy ride from the previous trains and track
New signalling equipment and electrical upgrades to the line which will improve reliability and resilience of the line for years to come
Adjustments to platform heights to reduce the gap between the train and the platform to improve accessibility to the trains
Investments in Ryde Pier to prolong the life of the listed structure
Free Wi-Fi at all stations on the island
New ticket vending machines at Shanklin, Sandown and Ryde St Johns
Customer Information Screens at Ryde Pierhead and Esplanade. New screen at Shanklin by Xmas.
Modern, spacious new trains
Longer trains during holiday periods and at peak times
USB recharging points available onboard
Passenger information screens on all trains
Free Wi-Fi on board every train
Dedicated Wheelchair spaces and a call for aid button on each train