Rotheram announces ferry plan

Liverpool City Region metro mayor Steve Rotheram has revealed a proposal to commission the first new Mersey Ferry in almost 60 years.

The plan for a new boat is a key element of the Mersey Ferries strategy, which will be supported by approval of next week’s Combined Authority budget.

Naval architects have prepared initial plans and, following a period of public consultation on the type of facilities desired aboard the new vessel, a tendering process will start later this year.

Rotheram said: “Ferries are such an important part of our identity. They have both a practical and an iconic value and will be a key element in our future transport and tourism strategies.

“This new ferry will be designed specifically for our needs and will ensure this ancient form of transport is relevant for the 21stcentury. There will be ferries on the Mersey as long as there are Liver Birds on the Liver Building.”

The authority said that as well as fulfilling its core role as an integral part of the public transport system, the ferry could be used for events and river cruises to generate additional income. The ferry could be ready for service before 2021.

Cllr Liam Robinson, chairman of Merseytravel, said: “Our existing ferry fleet has given outstanding service to generations of commuters and visitors.

“They have been part of the scenery on the river, but if we are committed to the future of the ferry, now is the time to invest in a vessel fit for the next 50 years.”

Your Comments

Read our comments policy

Is it true “Big Undies” is buying a sub?

By Gerry Pacemaker

As a rate payer to the city. I hope the order for the new ferry goes to a long established local shipbuilding.

By Steve Hart

One ferry? How ambitious.

By Jonty

Their worried about the sub?

By Gerry Pacemaker

Related Articles

Sign up to receive the Place Daily Briefing

Join more than 13,000 property professionals and receive your free daily round-up of built environment news direct to your inbox

Subscribe

Join more than 13,000 property professionals and sign up to receive your free daily round-up of built environment news direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you are agreeing to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

"*" indicates required fields

Your Job Field*
Other regional Publications - select below