Isle of Wight faces three months with no trains on Island Line

South West Trains announced today that engineering works from January 4, 2021, to March 31, 2021, would see the biggest transformation to the line’s infrastructure since the line was electrified in 1967.

This work includes the construction of a new passing loop at Brading allowing for a regular 30-minute service, enhancements to the track to improve the quality of the ride, upgrade to platforms to improve access to the replacement 1970s-built Class 484 trains, and the installation of new ticket vending machines at Shanklin, Sandown and Ryde St John’s Road.

The interior of a Class 484 train. To keep passengers moving, buses will run between Shanklin and Ryde Esplanade, with a minibus operating along Ryde Pier to connect passengers with Wightlink ferries.

Alan Penlington, customer experience director, at South Western Railway said: “This is a very exciting project for Island Line and will transform travel on the Isle of Wight. While this work will be disruptive, we will keep our customers moving with replacement buses.

“Upon completion of this critical work, we will be introducing the Class 484 trains into service, providing modern spacious interiors, free on-board Wi-Fi, at seat charging points, and dedicated wheelchair spaces.

The Class 484 trains which will take over on Island Line.

"The new passing loop at Brading will also allow us to run a service at regular 30-minute intervals, providing better connections to ferries to the mainland.”