IoW Smart Tramway concept

Isle of Wight opportunity devoid of a tunnel

A smart motorway has just opened near Basingstoke, based on an old one. The Island Line could be modernised and renamed by reopening the original tram route in Ryde. It could use modern cars, as well as memorable heritage ones, as is so popular at Blackpool.

For some years, enthusiasts have been trying to locate a suitable site to develop as a tram museum in the South of England. Approaches have been made over time to public bodies in Ryde, as it has been felt that a tourist tramway on the seafront would provide a significant attraction. This plan has the potential to bring many extra visitors. Also, there are no buildings on the tunnel-free route.

The new Island Line franchise owner has links with the Hong Kong trams. Many request stops could be considered and live rails would go.

Any suggestions about the above would be most welcome.

Below: 1927 Guidebook map. The proposed route is shown in bold red dashes.

For more information, please contact Martin Petch
(Area Representative - Light Rail Transit Association Central Southern England) 
Tel: 023 8077 4186            Email: mmkpetch@btinternet.com

Originator: Vic Mitchell
Tel: 01730 813169            Email: v.mitchell@middletonpress.co.uk