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Pics, Facts & Info

FAQ and Links

Why are we doing this project?

Ryde Interchange will be a gateway to the Isle of Wight creating a new transport hub. It is included in the South East and the Local Transport plans.

Who is funding the project?

The funding comes from central government through the Department for Transport.

Do we have to spend the money on this?

Yes, the money is ring-fenced for this transport project and can not be spent on any other project.

Who owns the land?

The Isle of Wight Council and Network Rail own most of the land. Hovertravel and Wightlink also own small pieces and all four organisations are working jointly together.

Who will operate the building once completed?

This is still to be decided and will be subject to further work and studies in the New Year.

When will work start?

It is anticipated to begin work in October 2007. The first part of the project will see some early road works completed and the new pier access installed.

How long will the project take?

It is anticipated to take approximately 60 weeks.

Will the station be kept open?

Yes - the station will remain open and trains will operate as normal. There are likely to be only two short periods when trains will not run through the Esplanade - during the demolition of the old station and also during the removal of the old bridge. During these times, replacement buses will be in operation.

Can I still buy a railway ticket?

Yes - a temporary ticket office will be placed close to the end of the pier and Island Line will continue to sell tickets as they do currently.

Will the buses still operate?

Yes - buses will operate slightly further along the Esplanade from the Rose Gardens.

How will I be able to cross the railway to the hovercraft?

The existing bridge will remain in operation for as long as possible. It is likely there will be a short period when it will be demolished before the new ramp is in place. We will advise passengers of the new route nearer the time.

Does this project have anything to do with Wightlink?

No - Wightlink are a stakeholder like many other transport operators in the area. The pier will be unaffected by this project.

How many piers are there?

There are in fact three piers in total - the car/foot pier, the old redundant tram pier and the rail pier.

What is happening to the old railway structure in the station?

The old cast iron stanchions will be removed and stored at Ryde St.Johns depot - they may be re-used at Havenstreet or Sandown stations.

What facilities will be present in the new Interchange?

A new Tourist Information office, coffee shop and police security facility will be present on the ground floor as well as new public toilets. Please see the plans of the new building for further details.

How many modes of transport converge on the site?

There are a total of 12 modes of transport - Catamaran, Hovercraft, Train, Bus, Coach, Car, Taxi, Motorcycle, Cycles, Pedestrians, Dotto Train and Car rental.

Will the building be sympathetic to the surrounding area?

Yes - we hope so. It has been designed to have the least impact on the surrounding area whilst being a striking and imaginative building.

Will any Island firms be involved in the construction process?

The contractor has been asked to use as much local island labour where possible.

Will the building be lit up at night?

Yes - the building will be sympathetically lit at night to enhance the security to the area.

Will the new highway layout affect the carnival access?

No – the southern carriageway and pavement is being left alone. The carnival floats should have no problem in turning right at the bottom of Union Street.

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Credits

Press cuttings courtesy of the Isle of Wight County Press
Isle of Wight archive images supplied by Ivan Berryman Fine Art

All information Copyright 2006 Ryde Interchange
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