Version 1.1 – 24th April 2017
Keep Island Line in Franchise
“KILF” CAMPAIGN
Isle of Wight Council elections: the future of Island Line

We asked the candidates whether, if elected, they will:
1) Advocate Island Line being retained in the wider South Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the
national rail network.
2) Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make representations to the DfT in support of this
objective, including asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for much-needed
investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future in the wider franchise.
The responses from the candidates are set out below, in ward order.
BRADING, ST HELENS & BEMBRIDGE (two seats)
Jonathan Bacon
Reply received on Facebook:
The answers would be 'yes' and 'yes'. The key is to look longer term and
(Independent)
the most efficient combination of rolling stock and infrastructure for a long
term future.
Roger Bartrum
(Green Party)

Thank you for your emails this week. I have been taking an interest in
Island Line over the past couple of years and would like to thank KILF for its
work in making the sometimes very complex issues understandable for
island residents.
As a candidate I am keen to protect the Island Line rail service and think it
should be kept in the wider South Western Rail Franchise, and as part of
the national rail network.
If elected I think it is essential that I, and other green councillors insist the
new leadership make representations to the DfT. Investment is long
overdue and both rolling stock and housing stock is an embarrassment
currently.

John Graney
(Liberal Democrat)
Gordon Kendall
(Independent)
Michael Murwill
(Conservative Party)

No response received to date.
No response received to date.
I whole heartedly support the aims of the KILF and when/if elected I will do
all I can to support the line.
We need to improve the infrastructure and public transport on the Island, to
reduce the strain on the roads.

Hugh Street
(Labour Party)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.

Brian Tyndall
(Conservative Party)

Thank you for your email and details of the KILF Campaign.
You can certainly look for my support in this matter, not only for the Island,
but as I live in Brading for the Town itself.

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GODSHILL & WROXALL
Patch Barry (Green Party)

I am not as familiar on this matter as I should like to be so I will perhaps
offer some general principles by which you can predict my likely future
action on this matter.
I am 100% in favour of a train service for the island. I certainly would not
like to see its services or quality reduced, if anything, where ethical and
practicable I would be favour of expansion.
My preferred option for running the trains would be community or public
enterprise yet I appreciate reality might dictate such a proposal as inferior to
the one KILF currently suggests.
So... I look forward to expanding my knowledge on this matter and if elected
exploring realistic options with KILF (as you have done your homework and
I haven't) to secure a better future for our train service.

Rodney Downer
(Independent)

In reply to your first question I would advocate Island Line being retained in
the South Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network. It
is most important to keep the rail service.
The second point I would make representations to the new administration,
to make representations to the DFT. Also ask government to support First
Group plans for investment in Island Line.

Ewan Smith-Wainwright
(Conservative Party)

No response received to date.

HAVENSTREET, ASHEY & HAYLANDS
Vanessa Churchman
No response received to date.
(Conservative Party)
David Logan
No response received to date.
(Green Party)
Sue Lyons
Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
(Labour Party)
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.
Malcolm Ross
(Liberal Democrat)
Sandy Stephens
(Independent)

No response received to date.
No response received to date.

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LAKE NORTH
Bob Blezzard
(Liberal Democrat)

Thank you for your message. I am pleased to respond as follows:
1. I fully support Islandline being retained in the wider South West
Trains Franchise and as part of the national rail network.
2. If elected I will be delighted to ask the new Council leadership to
make strong representations to Government to pressure First
Group/MTR to make substantial investment in the Islandline
infrastructure. I would want this to include the provision of a passing
point at Brading to allow for a 30 minute service. I know that some
funding is being provided for station upgrading and I want to see
Lake station receive its fair share of that funding.
I would add that I wish to see the funding for free travel by Island residents
with bus passes which was withdrawn by the Council in 2012 reinstated.
This would demonstrate that the Council values the service provided by
Islandline. It is a matter I have previously raised both at Council meetings
and at a public meeting but without a satisfactory response from the former
Independent administration.

Deborah Gardiner
(Labour & Co-operative)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.

Tig Outlaw
(Conservative Party)

Thank you for your email regarding the future of Island Line. I am delighted
to offer my wholehearted support for the KILF campaign. Island Line is a
service I use every week, indeed on Friday, Saturday and Monday this
Easter weekend. Island Line is also the reason I moved to Lake many years
ago. In a period of job insecurity I moved my family to Lake as it would
widen my job opportunities through the possibility of commuting. I am happy
to say my own job security has improved but Island Line remains a vital part
of the Islands transport infrastructure. Many residents do rely on the line to
commute, allowing them to stay Island residents who would otherwise need
to consider relocating. It is also of course crucial to the Islands tourist
industry.
Of course much of this is preaching to the converted but I do want residents
of Lake North and KILF supporters as a whole to know that I recognise
Island Line’s importance not just to me and my family but to the wider
community and its future prosperity.
From a practical perspective, you are absolutely right to point out the
important role Isle of Wight councillors may play in Island Line’s future. As a
result I feel it is important that candidates understand the issues and the
potential threats to Island Line’s future. Whilst I recognise it has an
important role, I do have some concern that the Islands ‘Infrastructure
Transport Task Force’ may put forward some ideas that will somewhat
muddy the waters. Any proposals that are uncosted and unrealistic
alternatives may dilute the essential role that I believe the IW Council
should take in pressing the DfT to help First Group MTR deliver the much
needed investment to improve the service. It is important that the IW
Council support proposals that are deliverable and not wish lists.
Let me be clear, yes Island Line will need financial investment but so would
any alternative such as a tram, and I believe a tram would cost a whole lot
more than the sensible and deliverable plans outlined by First Group MTR.

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The only alternative that would cost less, the alternative that we should all
fear is for Island Line to be replaced with a dedicated bus service. I believe
that would destroy the Island’s tourist industry and would be disastrous for
the Bay area in particular. Whilst inside the franchise there is a duty and a
responsibility on the DfT and First Group MTR to maintain the lines future,
any attempt to deliver a sustainable future outside of the franchise
unrestrained by such duties could easily lead to such an outcome.
In conclusion, if elected as councillor for Lake North I will strongly advocate
for Island Line to remain as an integral part of the wider South Western
franchise and that it remains an integral part of the national rail network. I
will also urge the council leadership to lobby the DfT to support First Group
MTR in delivering an improved and more sustainable future for Island Line
as a ‘full’ and ‘undiluted’ part of the wider franchise.
Gerry White
(UKIP)

LAKE SOUTH
Stewart Blackmore
(Labour Party)

Paul Brading
(Conservative Party)

I am in favour of keeping the island line going so why did the Isle of Wight
Council take island line out of the free travel pass system on the island and
depriving them of a large income.

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.
Having lived locally all my life I regularly use the train service.
Island Line is vital to the Isle of Wight, especially to Lake which I hope to be
elected to represent. Yes, investment is needed and the best way of
attracting this, and protecting the future of the service, is undoubtedly for
Island Line to remain within the franchise.
I have discussed this in detail with current serving Councillor Ray
Bloomfield, who I know has raised motions on this at County Council, and if
elected to succeed Ray I will continue the work to fight for this aim.

Chani-May Courtney
(Liberal Democrat)
John Fleming

No response received to date.

Adrian Whittaker
(Independent)

I am full supportive of the Island Line campaign. If elected I would support it
100%.

No response received to date.

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RYDE EAST
Mary Collis
(Conservative Party)

I agree absolutely that Island Line should be retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise and as part of the rail network. If elected I would
definitely lobby for the post-election leadership to make representation to
the DfT in support of this and also that they ask the Government to support
First Group MTR's plans for investment in Island Line and therefore
securing its future in the wider franchise.
I have recently been actively involved with Community Rail. I have cowritten a children's book and been involved with putting on a number of
shows at various railway stations on the island and the mainland in order to
raise awareness and encourage people from childhood upwards to support
the railways and appreciate their great value as a means of transport.
I can confirm that whether elected or not, I would be very happy to totally
support the aims of the KILF and work with them in every way possible to
secure the future of Island Line.

Lawrence Fontana
(Liberal Democrat)
Michael Lilley
(Green Party)

No response received to date.
I totally support the Island Line remaining in the franchise.
The Island Line is crucial in connecting Ryde to the Bay area. As a Ryde
Town Councillor seeking re-election and a candidate to represent Ryde
East in the Isle of Wight Council elections, if elected I would support the
campaign to keep the Island Line within the current franchise. This line is a
vital part of our transport network on the Island. Within my ward, many
residents rely on St John's Station to get trains to work everyday whether to
catch the Cat at the Pier Head or to go to bay area. The Line is also
essential to tourism and the economy of Ryde and Bay area. Lastly I have a
deep personal affection for the Line which I first travelled on as a child. It is
an important part of the Island's heritage.

Roger Whitby-Smith
(Independent)

RYDE NORTH EAST
Nancy Farrell
(Green Party)
Zarah Groves
(Labour Party)

Wayne Whittle
(Conservative Party)

Yes – if re-elected most certainly.

No response received to date.
Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.
As a tenant of the Esplanade Station and Cllr for same my support goes
without saying and must do as I have a clear interest.

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RYDE NORTH WEST
Adrian Axford
(Conservative Party)
Stephen Courtney
(Liberal Democrat)
Julian Critchley
(Labour Party)

No response received to date.
No response received to date.
Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.

Phil Jordan

No response received to date.

Ewald Widiner
(Green Party)

Should I be elected as County Councillor I will support the KILF
CAMPAIGN!
I will advocate that the Island Train Line should be retained in the wider
South Western Rail Franchise, as part of the national rail network.
Further I will urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including to ask the
Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for much-needed
investment into the Island Line and thereby securing its future in the wider
franchise.

RYDE SOUTH
Charles Chapman
(Conservative Party)

I believe the greatest disservice that was ever done on the island was the
cutting of the Railways (How much now could go the Railway reliving our
Roads of Heavy Traffic).
Keeping our Island Railway Line which is both a provider of Jobs and a
welcome boost as a Tourist attraction and access point. I would support the
extension of this line were ever possible, not forgetting the Steam Railway
which connects to Island Line.
Let's have more Railway.

Karen Lucioni

Yes I absolutely support this as set out in your email, however I would really
like the opportunity to learn more.

Mick Lyons
(Labour Party)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1.
Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South
Western Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2.
Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.

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RYDE WEST
Janet Beckett
(Liberal Democrat)
Conrad Gauntlett
(Conservative Party)
Jim Moody
(Labour Party)

Alex Pointing
(Green Party)
Ian Stephens

No response received to date.
Count me in, as I am all for keeping the franchise as it is.
Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.
No response received to date.
No response received to date.

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SANDOWN NORTH
Ronald Anderson
(Labour Party)

Debbie Andre
(Independent)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.
Thank you for the detailed report on your valiant efforts so far to "keep
island line in the franchise" and for giving me the opportunity to respond.
My responses are as follows:
1.

Advocate Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
If elected, I will support and progress any plans to keep Island
Line within the National Rail network, currently within the South
Western Rail Franchise, as I believe that this will provide a
degree of protection and longevity for this vital service which,
with the right management team in place, will support the
island's economy and deliver a more environmentally friendly
form of transport for both residents and visitors alike.

2.

Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.
I fully support making representations to the DfT to facilitate
and encourage investment, looking at all viable alternatives in
terms of 21st century innovation that could replace the existing
rolling stock, with minimal changes to the existing infrastructure,
which may also encourage investment from a wider sphere. I
am also in favour of seeking to extend the current provision to
provide much more efficient access to major towns on the
island.

Thank you again for all your efforts.
Kevin Arlette
(UKIP)
Rajesh Patel
(Conservative Party)

No response received to date.
No response received to date.

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SANDOWN SOUTH
Eric Lawson
(Green Party)

1) Advocate Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
If elected for Sandown South in the IW Council, I intend to work
very hard with all parties working towards keeping the Island Line
within the South Western Rail Franchise.
The Island Line service is vital to a wide cross section of the
Sandown community, supporting commuters, students, tourists and
providing employment opportunities, directly via the trains service
and also indirectly via various cafes and other retail outlets situated
along the route. The benefits of the island line being within a larger
operation ensures viability whereas an independently run service
has a high risk of failure in the medium to long term.
2) Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.
In my ambitious plans to create a Sandown Town Strategy and to
re-focus the IW  Council support on Sandown, I envision an
efficient, affordable and enjoyable island line train service.
Encouraging tourists to Sandown Bay is central to the regeneration
of Sandown. Parking is an issue along the seafront and public
transportation, in addition to a car parking strategy that works for
locals and tourists, is a vital part of the solution.

Ian Ward
(Conservative Party)

I will do my best to help residents get the best deal and best service we
can. To achieve that we should consider every option available then choose
what is best for our residents.

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SHANKLIN CENTRAL
Michael Beston
(Conservative Party)

As an Isle of Wight tourism business owner and Shanklin resident, I fully
and wholeheartedly support the KILF (Keep Island Line in the Franchise)
campaign. My view is that it’s absolutely imperative that Island Line remains
as a vital part of the Islands transport infrastructure, I also advocate that it
must be retained in the wider South Western Rail Franchise, and as part of
the national rail network.
After speaking to many local Shanklin residents during my election
campaign, it has become very clear that residents, who rely on this vital link,
share the same concerns. Losing this key part of the town’s transport route
to Ryde and beyond would be severely damaging not only to our residents
transport services, but of course to our highly valued Island tourism
industry.
During consultations, it would appear that most Shanklin Residents are
keen to support the KILF stance of retaining our Island line in the wider
South Western Rail Franchise. My observations as a Shanklin resident
confirmed there was very little, or minimal action taken by the previous
Independent administration or indeed by Independent Shanklin Councillors
to save Island Line in the long term. Absence of such action had left the
future of Island Line seriously at risk.
If elected as an Isle of Wight Councillor, I will ensure there is a well
informed voice in the Council Chamber, and indeed at Shanklin Town
Council. I will also strongly advocate for Island Line to remain as an integral
part of the wider South Western franchise, and the national rail network. I
will also urge the post election council leadership to lobby the DfT to
support First Group MTR in delivering an improved and more sustainable
future for Island Line.

Elizabeth Evans
(Labour Party)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.

Jon Gilbey

No response received to date.

Robert May
(Green Party)

I thank you for this opportunity to outline where I stand on Island Line.
I'm Robert May standing for the Green Party in Shanklin Central.
I strongly support keeping Island line in the wider South Western franchise,
as this service is a vital link for so may people, I would hate to see the
service lost, as I feel this would have a devastating affect on Shanklin. But
this is only a short term goal as the Green Party is committed to bringing rail
services into public ownership and control. The current fragmented
structure does not put the passenger and the total journey experience at the
centre of planning and has created a costly, wasteful, uncoordinated
outcome.
And should I be elected by the people of shanklin Central on the 4th May,
then yes I will be urging the Isle of wight Council’s new leadership team to
make representations to the DfT in support of this objective. I agree that
Island Line needs much investment and support asking the government to
support First Group MTR’s plans.

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SHANKLIN SOUTH
Doreen Armstrong
(Labour Party)

Nick Belfitt
(Liberal Democrat)
Lorraine Briar
(Green Party)
Andrew Green
(Independent)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.
No response received to date.
No response received to date.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my thoughts on Island Line.
As the independent candidate for Shanklin South & Luccombe I consider
the inclusion of Island Line within the South West franchise as integral to
the economy of the Shanklin Bay Area and the Island’s East Coast. Many
words have been stated about Island Line’s future in the South West
franchise and the need for investment. However as a season ticket holder,
the biggest issue I have observed is ‘revenue protection’, as many people
travel free without paying. Therefore as an ex-director of First Group I will
work with the new franchisee to help them invest in improved services e.g.
earlier train from Shanklin to catch the first fast cat of the day. As well as
secure the line’s long term future and the much needed development.

Richard Priest

No response received to date.

Chris Quirk
(Conservative Party)

As a founder member of KILF I am committed to its objectives and if elected
I am committed to:
1.
Keeping Island Line as part of the South Western Franchise
and National Rail Network.
2.
Urging the IOW Council to support First Group’s investment
plans when submitted to DfT.
Whilst most Shanklin Residents appear to support the KILF position, there
was minimal action taken by the Independent Councillors for Shanklin or the
Independent administration, and by their inertia the future of Island Line was
left seriously at risk. Saving Island Line in the long term required action,
and in the absence of leadership by the Independent Administration that
action was driven by the cross party group Keep Island Line (in the)
Franchise, better known as KILF.
Within KILF I personally have made a significant impact:
• Organised the original public meeting that established KILF.
• Put the question to the 250+ attendees that gained unanimous
support for KILF’s position.
• Attended the DfT Consultation on the Island and created ongoing
lines of communication with the DfT Civil Servants that presented.
• Attended the London meeting of the South Western Franchise
consultation where KILF’s pre-briefing of Journalists led to Island
Line being the main topic of discussion at the London consultation.
• Met with representatives of the potential bidders before and after
the London consultation.
• Met with senior DfT bidders before and after the London
consultation.
• Wrote letter to Claire Perry, then Undersecretary of State for
Transport, explaining the Island’s needs.
• Attended the South Western Franchise Parliamentary debate.

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•
•
•
•
•
•

Sonja Ward
(UKIP)

Spoke personally with Claire Perry following the Parliamentary
debate and hand delivered information on Island Line
Subsequently had a positive ongoing exchange with Claire Perry.
Lobbied all IOW Councillors to support Ray Bloomfield’s resolution
to support Island Line remaining in the wider South Western Rail
Franchise.
Presented to Chris Garnett consultation on behalf of IOW Council.
Presented to Transport Task Force (although it was a sham as
most members of the task force did not attend most of the
presentations).
Now standing for IOW Council to ensure there is a well-informed
voice in the Council Chamber.

I confirm that I wholeheartedly believe our Island Line should remain as part
of the nationwide rail service, otherwise we are surely at risk if left to be
totally self-sustaining. The proposals suggested by First Group MTR sound
promising and just what we need of course.
I do indeed support KILF and thank you for what you have achieved so far
on behalf of our Island community, and if elected I would continue to see
this through to the positive outcome we so need.

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VENTNOR EAST
Stephen Gibbons-Roscoe
(UKIP)
Ed Gouge
(Labour Party)

Billy Hill
(Independent)

No response received to date.
Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.
As someone who uses the Island Line train service I understand the
importance and requirement of the service in serving visitors and regular
commuters alike.
Island Line remaining within the South Western Rail franchise and as part of
the National Rail Group is the best outcome for the future of the train
service both in the improvement, investment and maintenance of the line
and in its continuation being a key connection point to the mainland.
Therefore In addition to supporting Island Line remaining within the South
Western Rail franchise and as part of the National Rail Group I would also
encourage and support the leadership of the council in highlighting the
priorities above to the Department for Transport if elected as the
independent councillor for Ventnor East.

Jonathan Marks
(Green Party)
Graham Perks
(Conservative Party)

No response received to date.
Agree with you all.

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VENTNOR WEST
Stephen Cockett
(Green Party)

Many thanks for the invitation to comment.
Public transport provision is a foundation of Green politics, not only does it
provide obvious environmental and economic benefits but it also fulfills a
democratic function, as mobility should be a citizens right.
It is therefore very easy for me to answer the questions posed with absolute
certainty in my conviction.
1. There is no question that Island Line should remain part of the
franchise, only by being part of the larger franchise will the
necessary continuity of operations be maintained and the required
investments be feasible.
2. I can give my personal assurance that in the event that I am elected
for the ward of Ventnor West, my support will be forthcoming for
any actions that bolster the position of Island line within the
franchise, including representations to the DfT, either in support of
other members or proactively.
Once again, many thanks for the opportunity to comment.

Steve Cooper
(Labour Party)

Response from IOW Labour Party:
All the Labour Candidates, along the line and in Ventnor, will if elected:
1. Advocate the Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
2. Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its future
in the wider franchise.

Richard Curtis
(UKIP)
Gary Peace
(Conservative Party)

No response received to date.
As someone who has used the Island Line over a number of years my
position in relation to your questions is as follows:
1.

Advocate Island Line being retained in the wider South Western
Rail Franchise, and as part of the national rail network.
Yes, I would like to see the line retained in the rail franchise.

2.

Urge the IW Council’s post-election leadership to make
representations to the DfT in support of this objective, including
asking the Government to support First Group MTR’s plans for
much-needed investment in Island Line, thereby securing its
future in the wider franchise.
If elected I will support and encourage all representations to
secure the future investment funding from First Group, with a
view to securing its long term future within the franchise.

Harry Rees
(Independent)

No response received to date.

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