Work is progressing on the Island Line on the Isle of Wight.

Network Rail engineers have carried out works to replace 172 metres of track and install 143 metres of new steel rail bearers over the last nine months.

Plans remain for further upgrades to be carried out on the line. Network Rail and South Western Railway are currently searching for the least disruptive date to carry out the remainder of the works.

Meanwhile, Ryde Pier Station has also reopened for trains on the Island Line, following upgrade works. The station has been closed since October 2022. Works included the installation of a new weather screen to protect passengers from the elements. The station has also benefitted from a new coat of paint.

Commenting on the reopening, Mark Killick, Network Rail's Wessex route director, said: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to Island Line customers and local residents for their patience while these important restoration works have been carried out at the historic Ryde Pier to give it a new lease of life.

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"I'm really sorry for the delays the project has faced, it's been a huge task for our teams who have encountered several challenges including the winter storms and high tides, which meant the work took longer than planned.

"I understand the importance of reopening in time for the summer holidays and the positive impact tourism has on the local economy, so I'm excited to be welcoming customers back.

"We are continuing to work closely with our colleagues at SWR to identify the best time to complete the follow up works in a way that causes the least disruption to our customers. Once we have ironed out the finer details, we will update customers with further information so they can plan ahead."

Reflecting on the project's impact on the area, Will Myles, managing director for Visit Isle of Wight, said: "The work from Network Rail and South Western Railway on the UK's oldest pier, together with the introduction of a new walkway from Wightlink and the work at Ryde Esplanade which is nearing completion, ensures that visitors using the 'Gateway to the Isle of Wight' will be wowed this summer.

"Congratulations to South Western Railway and Network Rail for completing the works in time for the height of the summer visitor season, this piece of the jigsaw means that now visitors can enjoy a more sustainable journey to the Island."