By Isle of Wight Observer
Island Line passengers are bracing for yet more disruption, as the entire route shuts down from Saturday, October 18 to Monday, November 3, followed by partial closures until Monday, November 17. The plans mark another long interruption in service as engineers undertake upgrades and repairs across the network.
From November 3, trains will only operate between Ryde St Johns Road and Shanklin, while work continues in the Ryde area. Replacement buses will run throughout the closure to maintain connectivity.
The works include replacing switches and crossings at Ryde Esplanade, renewing rail through Ryde Tunnel, refurbishing the Ryde St John’s footbridge, improving safety fencing on Rink Road, tamping the line for smoother rides, managing vegetation, and conducting track inspections.
George Murrell, Wessex route renewals director at Network Rail, said: “We understand the inconvenience this causes, but these improvements are essential to ensure the Island Line thrives for years to come.”
The frequency and duration of repeated closures, since the major upgrade in 2020/21, have tested the patience of regular passengers and reportedly seen usage of the service drop dramatically. The most recent closure was for eight months – and finished in May this year – with a re-opening ceremony with no passengers present as both Wightlink’s Fast Cats were out of service due to mechanical issues. Despite the setback, senior rail managers stuck to pre-prepared speeches and spoke about the importance of ‘integrated transport’.
Passengers are once again advised to check travel updates and allow extra time for journeys during the next closure.