CUSTOMERS can expect a better rail experience, according to the company that has taken over Island Line.


Following a joint takeover by Chinese firm Mass Transit Railway (MTR) and FirstGroup, the First MTR South Western Rail network will see a £1.2 billion investment.

The partners hopes to work closer with the Isle of Wight Council and other local stakeholders as it makes changes. 

The banner under which the South Western franchise will run is set to change on August 20.

Isle of Wight passengers can expect to see the following: 

• Better connections with cross-Solent channel and mainland train services

• A £50,000 customer and communities fund will be set up for improving local stations and passenger experience

• Through-ticketing will be available through the web and mobile apps, along with more information about connecting services

• A new Delay Repay compensation scheme for delays of 15 minutes or more, and discount for purchasing 12 consecutive monthly season tickets. 

• A Student Connect smart ticket for 16-18 year olds. The ticket will offer one-third off weekly or longer tickets, and further term-time discounts for under 16s

• A marketing campaign will be launched to raise the profile of Island Line and the Isle of Wight. The company will work with Visit Isle of Wight, Hovertravel, Wightlink and Red Funnel.

Jeremy Long, European business chief executive for the MTR corporation, said: "MTR is known across the world for the excellent quality of its rail services, and we look forward to working with FirstGroup to provide a best-in-class travel experience for passengers in London and the South West. 

"Together we will deliver a major programme of upgrades, including improvements to both rail services and customer experience, for passengers travelling across the South Western network."

For the full story, see the County Press on Friday, March 31.