During a debate on Railway Services to Portsmouth and the South West yesterday (Wednesday), the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner raised the importance of good connectivity to the Island being a key requirement in the new franchise specification, saying that the new operator should be under ‘no illusions’ about its importance.
Mr Turner yesterday also welcomed the appointment by the Isle of Wight Council of Christopher Garnett OBE to examine the options to secure the future of Island Line, a sentiment which was echoed by Claire Perry MP, the Rail Minister. Both Mr Turner and the Minister also reconfirmed their commitment to finding a long-term, sustainable future for Island Line.
Andrew Turner MP has said:
“This was a useful debate and I was particularly pleased that the Rail Minister recognised that we must work together to find a ‘better solution’ for the problems that face Island Line. Christopher Garnett’s appointment gives us the opportunity to do that and I look forward to seeing his work progress over the coming months.
“I have had a most constructive meeting with the Leader of the Council this week and we are all committed to reaching the best outcome possible to retain the service. Cross-Solent connectivity is also key to any economic growth on the Island and the new railway operator must be made to realise that they must work with the ferry operators to achieve that”.
