Hythe Ferry update - 8th May 2025

We wanted to provide a brief but important update on the investigation works that took place this morning.

You may have spotted the Williams Shipping barge at the end of the pontoon today, we're incredibly grateful to them for assisting us with this crucial first phase of works.

Phase One; focusing on testing the strength of the structure that supports the walkway.

This needs to be lifted or moved before we can begin the critical repairs to the pontoon and piles. It's a vital step and the results of this phase will determine how we proceed with Phase Two (pontoon repairs) and Phase Three (pile works).

We're currently working with three specialist contractors on this stage:

* Below the Hook Ltd.

* Ultramag Inspection Services

* Williams Shipping

At the same time, we’re also planning for our annual ferry refit, required by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). This typically takes place in June/July and the cost was around £60,000 last year.

We're doing all we can to carefully manage timelines and budgets to get the ferry service up and running again as soon as possible, and in the most cost-effective way.

Lastly, despite repeated efforts, we’ve yet to secure any financial support from New Forest District Council (NFDC).

We still have a long way to go, but we’re pleased to be able to bring you a positive update today.

Thank you for your continued patience and support. We know how important the ferry is to the community, and we’ll keep doing everything we can to bring it back into service safely and sustainably.