Former railway line set to be upgraded

Sections of the old railway line between Wootton and Binfield will be closed throughout February and March as part of a major improvement project.

The Isle of Wight Council has confirmed that the two‑kilometre (1 1/5‑mile) stretch will be resurfaced, and long‑standing drainage problems tackled.

The work forms part of the council’s wider Island Green Link initiative – a £13.6 million scheme to create a sustainable travel corridor, between Ryde and Yarmouth. The programme includes new walking and cycling routes, upgrades to bus infrastructure, and a series of accessibility improvements, with projects being delivered in phases.

To minimise disruption, the works have been scheduled for the quieter winter months, but temporary closures will still be required while resurfacing is carried out. Diversions will be clearly signposted via Racecourse and Lushington Hill, with alternative routes, using either the crematorium access road or Station Road, depending on which section is closed.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of March.