Opening of Wightlink’s Lymington ferry terminal remembered 30 years on

MEMORIES were stirred when key figures behind the opening of Lymington’s Isle of Wight ferry terminal revisited for its 30th anniversary.

Round-the-world yachtsman Sir Robin Knox-Johnson officially opened Wightlink’s new terminal in Undershore Road on 23rd June 1994, after work was completed just before Easter that year.

Former managing director of Wightlink Mel Williams said it was a day of brilliant sunshine and visiting dignitaries, and neighbours thought it was a most enjoyable occasion.

Thirty years later, Brian Terry, the former technical director of Sea Containers Properties who set up and managed the scheme, and former site-based clerk of works George Hollobone returned to mark the occasion and see what had changed.

Wightlink commercial director Phil Delaney welcomed Brian, George and Brian’s wife Trish to the terminal.

Brian and George recalled the redevelopment project had very tight timescales, so they faced challenges to make sure the work was completed on time without disrupting the ferries sailing to and from Yarmouth.

Although the building’s exterior is largely the same today, changes inside include a larger café.

Mr Delaney said: “It was a pleasure to talk about the old days and remember our history. We always say our Lymington-to-Yarmouth route is one of the most beautiful in the country and are sure the opening of our impressive new terminal in 1994 must have delighted our customers.”

Brian said he felt privileged to be asked back by the present management of Wightlink, to celebrate this milestone anniversary.

He added: “Although 30 years had elapsed since the main building plus all the external works were finished just before Easter 1994, the structure has stood the test of time and still looks sharp and impressive.”