Land train could be back on track for Ryde

A company is bidding to bring back a land-train service to a seaside town.

Ryde on Tyme Ltd wants to start running an all-electric version of the Ryde 'dotto' train on the Isle of Wight.

It is preparing a bid for a Central Government Strategic Regeneration Grant. The application process is due to open in September.

A company spokesperson said it wants to "reintroduce the popular seafront attraction more than a decade after the original trains disappeared from the town".

The bid aims to secure funding to manufacture new carriages using marine carpentry and engineering trades on the island.

Plans for the train include a vintage timber steam engine cowling and flush-mounted solar roof skins.

The spokesperson continued: "This train will smoothly carry residents and visitors up the hill, dropping them directly outside retailers on Upper High Street and Union Street.

"The train would support local shops and act as a traffic calming measure, operating at speed of just 10mph."

Ryde on Tyme Ltd said it would also support families and mobility-impaired residents without cutting off their independence and would have a discount for local residents.

The project would be privately managed and supported through ticket sales and sponsorship with no ongoing cost to local taxpayers.

Dotto trains previously ran in the summer seasons in Ryde, Sandown and Shanklin but were axed by Isle of Wight Council due to increased maintenance costs.

Islanders are being encouraged to show their support for the proposal ahead of the September funding application process opening.