Many of the committee attended the Wightlink Forum on 22nd October.

Some of the things discussed:

1. Sunset Flyer hours have been improved/extended for winter (until end of December). You can return to the island between 6pm and 9am with this ticket . The cost has been reduced to £80 return.
2. We have had assurances that staff will be on hand to help with luggage, push chairs etc on the Fastcat. The management are acutely aware how difficult it can be, they are hoping and trying to ensure the disruption is for only a few weeks more. The work involves divers and new posts on the dock. The work is complex and expensive. There will be work done to improve the grip on the walkway and hopefully scaffolding and a cover can be constructed to make transition to the Fastcat safer, easier and dryer! Management are currently researching how those with mobility difficulties can be helped if there is a need to use the car ferry.
3. We have been informed about the company restructuring consultations; these do not appear to be as drastic as we had been led to believe. For the moment, there are no industrial actions planned; negotiations continue. Again, we have been promised future notifications 4. The CEO, Katy Taylor, has promised to look into the timetabling for the Portsmouth fast cat; London trains (if on time) come in only 5 minutes before the Fastcat leaves. This is tight and can cause long delays. This frequently means a long wait after a long day for commuters, especially later in the day when there are less crossings.
4. Whilst we were unsuccessful in getting a Sunset flyer for our mainland friends and family, there will be offers in the Black Friday initiative and the new booklet should have reached most people by now.

Our relationship with Wightlink is refreshingly honest and productive. This is a far cry from the days of the old CEO Keith Greenfield, who saw our group as the enemy. We continue to be a voice to get the best service we can for Wightlink users.

Our committee thank the management for listening and acting in our best interests where possible.

​​

Richmond House, Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 1JD
​Unsubscribe · Preferences