Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner is to meet companies bidding to run the Island’s railway during the next franchise period, and is seeking Islanders’ comments on the kind of service they wish to see.
According to Mr Turner, companies have been falling over themselves to meet MPs as decisions are made on who should win the new franchise which combines the Island’s railway with services from Waterloo to Portsmouth, Southampton and the west country.
Mr Turner said,
‘This combined franchise gives Islanders an opportunity to influence not only what we get from our railway but also from its vital connections on the mainland.
‘Those who issue the franchise will be looking not only at cost, but also at quality of service and value for money. And we, who use the service, are the best people to set out what we want. My list already includes improved connections with ferries and main line services – it is no good us having the most punctual railway in the country if it cannot wait for a late ferry from time to time. It includes proper investment in infrastructure and improved rolling stock. And it includes reasonable fares, through ticketing, and advertising of Island destinations like Cowes and Ventnor at mainland stations like Waterloo.
‘Any further comments, though, on what should be included would be very welcome and should be sent to me at 24 The Mall, Carisbrooke Road, Newport IW PO30 1BW.’
