Chain ferry ticket price rise floated by council

Proposals to increase fares on a chain ferry and introduce a charge for under-19s are set to be discussed by councillors.

Raising passenger and vehicle ticket prices to align the Isle of Wight Floating Bridge with Devon's Dartmouth Lower Ferry, and introducing a flat rate of £1 per crossing for under-19s between 19:00 and 07:00, are among the proposals in a new council report.

The Dartmouth Lower Ferry currently charges £2.50 for an adult single, £5 for an adult day return, £7.50 for a car or small van single, and £14 for a car or small van day return.

The Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee was due to discuss the paper later.

Currently to use the Floating Bridge an adult single ticket is £1, return £1.50, car or small van single £3, motorcycle £1.70, large van or minibus £3.30, and lorry £9, with discounts available for saver card holders.

The report by Simon Moon, the strategic director of community services, says the "financial challenge" is the single biggest risk to sustainable public services on the island.

The council needs to "resolutely maximise the deployment of the resources that it does have" towards "driving additional income/funding and cost savings to secure council services for the future," it adds.

However, the report also warns of "reputational damage" and that the "improved public perception" of the Floating Bridge may be impacted by a significant fare increase.

It says congestion on Cowes, Newport and East Cowes routes could increase as motorists are deterred from making the crossing.

On the proposed flat rate for under-19s, the document states that it is likely residents would launch campaigns against the plan with "emotional arguments" about penalising children and youth activities voiced.

Moon's report advises the proposals are agreed for recommendation to the policy, finance and resources committee, for adoption in the council's budget-setting processes.

The chain ferry crosses the River Medina between Cowes and East Cowes and saves an 11-mile round trip by road.