A business case considering the re-opening of a railway between the existing Island Line and Newport has been submitted to the Department for Transport by the Isle of Wight Council.

The authority, supported by Island MP Bob Seely, is seeking government support from the 'Restoring Your Railway' programme to further develop the case for reinstating some of the Islands’ lost rail links.

The project will aim to reinstate the disused rail line between the Island Line and Newport, via Blackwater, at an estimated infrastructure cost of £67 million. 

Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said extending the Island's rail network had significant potential to boost the local economy while helping to ease congestion and reduce carbon emissions.

"Reinstating this rail link is vital to supporting the economic growth of our Island and to help reduce carbon emissions. It will provide a viable alternative to private car travel by improving journey times and connectivity,” he said.