An 'unprecedented' amount of funding is to go towards improving bus services on the Isle of Wight, the government has announced.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has promised to deliver what it calls "London-style" bus services to every corner of the country.

While every region will receive some cash, the Island has been identified as an area in need of a bigger share.

Money will be used to keep fares down, protect local routes and deliver more reliable services, the DfT said.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said 712 million will be shared between local authorities to improve bus services, and a further £243 million between bus operators.

The DfT said the funding will allow many more urban areas to maintain their high levels of service. Meanwhile, rural communities, like on the Island, will be able to offer more services. 

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The funding boost comes after the Isle of Wight Council and Southern Vectis announced a new fleet of 22 zero emission buses, due to arrive in early 2026.

A combined £12.7 million will be used to revolutionise the bus operator’s routes 1, 5 and 9.

Southern Vectis managing director, Andrew Wickham, said it would put the Isle of Wight "right at the forefront of sustainable transport".

An extra £150 million of government cash will also cap single bus fares, which are due to rise to £3 at the start of next year, until the end of 2025.

National reports suggest fares could rise above £3 when the cap expires.