The Isle of Wight Bus and Rail Users’ Group (IWBRUG) held a meeting this week to discuss the future of Island Line Trains.
The outcome from the meeting is a policy document, setting out the priorities of the group in relation to the long term development of the rail services on the Isle of Wight.
Would not support community operation
IWBRUG, the only independent organisation acting on behalf of the interests of bus and rail passengers on the Isle of Wight, says it would not support “any proposal to devolve Island Line to a local or community-based operation”.
The group go on to stress the importance of ensuring Island Line remains part of the national rail network, something that would disappear if the line went into community ownership.
Vital to hear views of passengers
Chairman of IWBRUG, Stuart George, said,
“There is currently much concern and speculation regarding the future operation of the Island Line rail service.
“It is vitally important that the views of passengers using the service are heard and that options regarding any future franchise are considered in the light of their views.”
Policy statement
The policy document (see below) sets out the key requirements for the long-term operation of the Island Line rail service that, the group say, “will safeguard it for the benefit of local residents, commuters and tourists alike”.
- maintenance of service levels,
- frequencies and connections at least at present levels,
- a requirement for urgent rolling stock replacement and
- for track maintenance guarantees.
If you’re a passenger on the line, make sure you share your views by emailing them at [email protected]
The Policy Statement
Image: calflier001 under CC BY 2.0
