transport interchange in Ryde
WORK to transform one of the Island’s main gateways by creating a modern multi-million pound transport interchange in Ryde will begin in early October.
The multi-million pound Ryde Interchange project will draw together the hovercraft, train and bus terminals and taxi rank around one landmark development. It will be the largest project of its type ever undertaken on the Island.
The scheme will be far more pedestrian-friendly than the current arrangement while changes to the road layout will mean buses have shorter journey times bringing an environmental benefit.
The police have been involved in the design stage of the interchange and it is hoped that once completed it will qualify for Secure By Design status.
The interchange will be fully covered by CCTV and police will also have a base within the new building. Cllr Tim Hunter-Henderson, IW Council cabinet member for environment and transport, said much work had been done to make sure the new interchange was not only fit for purpose as an interchange but also as an asset to the wider community.
The design includes commercial space that would lead to local job creation. But it was also important that such a prominent and well-used interchange made a good impression for visitors.
Cllr Hunter-Henderson said:
Around 2.5 million passengers pass through this point each year. For many the interchange will represent a first impression of the Island so it is crucial the building looks first-class as well as being functional
We have taken great care to ensure that the building looks impressive. The bulk of the money for the scheme – £6.2 million — is by way of a Government grant.
That the Government is funding the scheme to that level illustrates not just how necessary the scheme is but also how well conceived and designed it is also. We have also made sure the interchange project represents real value for money,” said Cllr Hunter-Henderson.
Cllr Hunter-Henderson said another aspiration for the scheme was that it would be a catalyst for further investment in Ryde and elsewhere on the Island. It is envisaged the work will last 60 weeks although every effort will be made to minimise disruption especially during the busiest holiday periods.
Dyer and Butler have been selected as principal contractor for the scheme following a tendering process. They have indicated they will use local sub-contractors and materials where appropriate.
Authors bio is coming up shortly. 
Take note this article was published
So what’s happening to this gateway? Did they not manage to get the funding in the end or something?
So Hunter Hendersons words return to haunt him, as aren’t there still 2.5 million passing this point and leaving with an impression of the Island which the IW council themselves have condemned
“Around 2.5 million passengers pass through this point each year. For many the interchange will represent a first impression of the Island so it is crucial the building looks first-class as well as being functional”
This cost us dear and it came to nought as the plans hadn’t even been thought through