A major operation is underway to repair key parts of the rail network on the Isle of Wight after the end of year storms which has brought prolonged disruption to residents.
Engineers are working to replace ballast and sleepers across three miles of track following severe flooding at Ryde, which has caused landslides in around 20 locations leaving the track unsupported.
Around 600 tonnes of ballast, the material used to provide stability to the track, will be delivered from today (Thursday). Crews will begin work with the material which weighs the equivalent of more than 450 average cars on Monday to get the line back up and running. The two crews will begin work from each end of the three mile stretch of track that needs repairing. One crew will start from Ryde tunnel, working towards Smallbrook Junction and the other will work from the other side, working back to the Smallbrook Junction.
In addition, crews will begin work today to repair the signalling system by replacing cabling and point motors that were damaged by flood water. It is believed that at least 500 metres of cabling through the tunnel at Ryde will need to be replaced.
Repairs are also needed to the station platform at Smallbrook Junction.
Meanwhile, repairs have also started to the flood damaged depot at Ryde St Johns. Two trains were submerged by flood water and at it will take a number of months until they are fully repaired.
Replacement bus and taxi services remain in place for around 17 hours a day and Southern Vectis buses on Routes 2 & 3 are also accepting rail ticket holders between Ryde and Shanklin.
A spokesperson for the Island Line said:
“Following the damage caused by the storms before Christmas we are carrying out a major repair operation to the tracks. With 600 tonnes of ballast to replace it’s a huge task and we’re very grateful to our passengers for their continued patience. We’re doing everything we can to get the network back up and running again.”
