The Isle of Wights only comprehensive public travel information handbook has been published by the IW council.  The IW Public Transport Handbook contains a raft of vital travel information including timetable information for all Island bus, ferry and rail operators.

Timetable information on the Cowes chain ferry and IW Steam Railway is also included along with details on onward off-Island journeys including national coach and train operators.

The free publication will be distributed to most Island households in the coming fortnight and copies will also be available in libraries, tourist information centres and IW Council offices.

The publication, paid for by the IW Council, is the only all-mode transport guide now available on the Island because operator timetables generally only carry information on their own services.

Cllr Ian Ward, IW Council cabinet member for transport and the environment, said: “Everyone knows the importance of a comprehensive integrated public transport but such a system can only work if people have the information they need to use it properly.

“This booklet does just that. It is handy, packed full of important information and what’s more, it’s free. The council views the handbook as a vital part of its efforts to get people using public transport.”

Three editions of the booklet will be produced each year — in January, April and October – to reflect the changing seasonal timetables of the major operators. The handbook also includes details of concessionary fare schemes offered by the IW Council.

Already the publication has found favour with passenger groups and the UK’s leading authority on such publications.

The booklet was unveiled to the IW Bus Users’ Group committee meeting on Saturday. Secretary Don Vincent said:

“We congratulate the IW Council on producing such a comprehensive public transport publication and thank all the officers and staff involved in its design and layout.

“As a group, we feel it will become a vital travel planning item, either to, or from the Island.”

Mr Barry Doe, the UK’s expert on timetables, said the handbook was

‘excellent and most welcome.’ On his website view here: Barry Doe he has also included it in his list of ‘outstanding’ UK publications.

But the council is also asking the public for views. The handbook contains a brief questionnaire that can be returned post-paid to the authority.
Issued By:
Gavin Foster,
Media Officer
Source: Isle of Wight Council
 

Island Pulse