Improvement work to keep the Island Line running safely and reliably will take place this autumn.
South Western Railway (SWR) and Network Rail Wessex engineers will renew ageing track and signalling infrastructure across the Island Line.
Two closures planned
The essential work will reduce the need for short-notice maintenance and help deliver a more reliable service for customers travelling towards the mainline and ferry port, as well as those travelling onwards across the Isle of Wight.
The line will be closed between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin from Saturday 31st October to Sunday 15th November 2026, as maintenance teams carry out track repairs and improve rail alignment across the route, which will reduce the risk of delays caused by faulty track.
700 metres of new track for Ryde
A second closure will follow between Ryde Pier Head and Ryde St John’s Road from Monday 16th to Sunday 29th November. Engineers will install 700 metres of new track between Ryde Pier Head and Ryde St Johns Road to provide smoother journeys for customers.
Customers are advised to plan their journeys carefully, as buses will replace trains during both closures – more information can be found below.
Track donated to the Steam Railway
As part of SWR and Network Rail Wessex’s ongoing support of the Island’s heritage railway, 30 of the track panels that will be removed from the Island Line will be donated to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, which runs from Smallbrook Junction.
Essential works
Mark Dunn, Island Line General Manager for South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, said,
“We’re thankful to our customers for their patience while we carry out these essential works throughout November.
“These annual line closures allow us to carry out a large programme of maintenance and improvement work that will keep customers moving for the rest of the year, particularly during the busy summer months.”
What this means for your journey
Saturday 31st October to Sunday 15th November
- Buses will replace trains between Ryde Pier Head and Ryde Esplanade
- Buses will replace trains between Ryde Esplanade and Shanklin, calling at Ryde St John’s Road, Brading, Sandown and Lake
Monday 16th November to Sunday 29th November
- Buses will replace trains between Ryde Esplanade and Ryde St Johns Road
- Train services will continue to run between Ryde St Johns Road and Shanklin
Journey planners are up to date and customers are advised to plan their journeys carefully.
News shared by SWR press team. Ed
