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MP Calls For Joint Rail And Ferry Ticket Machines At Wightlink Terminals

Wightlink has agreed to install new ticket machines at some of its terminals to allow Islanders to get through-tickets.

However, it claims plans have hit a wall due to apparent red tape at the Department for Transport.

It has prompted both Wightlink’s CEO and the Island’s MP to escalate the issue further within the DfT.

It follows calls from several Islanders, including Bob Seely, to combine ferry and rail tickets.

Mr Seely said he contacted Wightlink’s Chief Executive Officer, Keith Greenfield, about the issue as he wanted to make onward travel easier for commuters.

The MP, a regular commuter himself, said Wightlink welcomed the suggestion and agreed to allocate capital funds to pay for the machines at their Ryde and Yarmouth terminals.

Mr Seely said he will continue to push for the change:

“I am aware that Islanders are keen to be able to purchase through-tickets at ferry terminals for onward rail journeys. As a regular commuter myself, I understand the desire for this.

“I raised the issue with Wightlink’s Chief Executive, Keith Greenfield, who said he was keen to provide ticket machines at Ryde and Yarmouth terminals to enable this.

“Unfortunately, there apparently is red tape within the DfT preventing this from happening, which is very frustrating.

“I have raised the issue with the Secretary of State, Grant Shapps, to see what can be done.”

Mr Greenfield said:

“Wightlink will continue to push for rail ticket machines at Ryde and Yarmouth as soon as possible”. 

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