- New Island Line fleet reaches full complement as fifth Class 484 train arrives from the mainland.
- Comes as final Class 483 trains sets off on its journey to its new home with the London Traction Transport Group.
- The change is part of the biggest transformation of the Island Line since it was electrified in 1967.
The fifth and final Class 484 train arrived on the Island today, just 24 hours before the last of its predecessors is set to begin its journey to its new home on the mainland.
The two-car train, which crossed the Solent early on Wednesday afternoon, made its way to Sandown and will be now subject to a number of tests before serving customers.
Meanwhile, the last 483 train – which had run on the Island Line from 1989 up until 2021 – is due to start its move to the London Traction Transport Group on the mainland.
The five new trains form an integral part of the £26 million Island Line upgrade, which took place last year. The upgrade has seen the Class 484 trains running through improved stations and along enhanced infrastructure.
The new trains have significantly improved the customer experience, with upgrades ranging from better interiors to plug sockets, free WiFi and wheelchair spaces.
The railway’s track has been significantly enhanced, helping to improve customer comfort, while a new passing loop at Brading will usher in a new, regular 30 minute train service, aligned to the ferry timetable. At a number of stations, new ticket vending machines and Customer Information Screens have been installed.
Alex Foulds, SWR's Commercial Projects Director, said:
“This week, the biggest transformation of the Island Line since 1967 takes another step forward as we welcome the final Class 484 and bid a fond farewell to the last Class 483.
“Combined with upgraded infrastructure and station improvements, these new trains are helping to deliver the modern, punctual and accessible railway that the Island’s residents and visitors expect and deserve.”
Notes
The Island Line upgrade project has delivered the following benefits:
- Improved track, which will greatly improve the ride comfort compared to the bumpy ride from the previous trains and track
- New signalling equipment and electrical upgrades to the line which will improve reliability and resilience of the line for years to come
- Adjustments to platform heights to reduce the gap between the train and the platform to improve accessibility to the trains
- Investments in Ryde Pier to prolong the life of the listed structure
- Free Wi-Fi at all stations on the island
- New ticket vending machines at Shanklin, Sandown and Ryde St Johns
- Customer Information Screens at Ryde Pierhead and Esplanade
- Modern, spacious new trains
- Longer trains during holiday periods and at peak times
- USB recharging points at all seats
- Passenger information screens on all trains
- Free Wi-Fi on board every train
- Dedicated Wheelchair spaces and a call for aid button on each train
- New passing loop which will usher in a new, regular 30 minute train service, aligned to the ferry timetable
