Andrew Turner the Island’s MP has written to Huw Irranca-Davies, a minister in the Dept of Food, Environment and Agriculture (DEFRA) seeking a firm undertaking from him that the needs of the Island will be taken into account in looking at the future of the Yarmouth to Lymington ferry service.

He has also tabled a series of Parliamentary Questions about the operation of the ferry service and written to the Lymington Harbour Commissioners asking them for any ‘substantive reason’ why the new ferries should not be brought into service. His actions follow speculation about the introduction of the new ‘W’ class ferries on the route.

Mr Turner said
“There is a perception by some residents in Lymington that the new ferries may cause difficulties for river users. However the ferries provide a ‘lifeline’ service for Islanders - that must come first. Many people rely on the ferries to access health services, education and employment as well as for social reasons and of course the tourist trade relies on them to bring over custom from the mainland. I have asked for an undertaking from the Minister that these factors will be properly taken into account when looking at how the new ferries can be introduced on the route quickly.

“I think it is time that the Lymington Harbour Authorities were asked to give proper reasons why they are seeking to hold up the introduction of the new ferries.”