The Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company begins ‘crucial’ first phase of repair works

WORK has started on a “crucial” first phase to bring the Hythe ferry back in to service.

The service, which connects Hythe and Southampton, has been out of action since last August after engineers rendered the boarding pontoon unsafe.

The Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, which was set up in 2023 following Red Funnel’s purchase of the service, says it needs £250,000 for a new pontoon as the existing one cannot be repaired. A Crowdfunder has so far raised £5,148, along with a £1,000 pledge from Hythe and Didben Parish Council.

A spokesperson explained phase one of the “crucial” works focussed on testing the strength of the structure that supports the walkway.

This needs to be lifted or moved before critical repairs to the pontoon and piles can be undertaken. A ferry spokesperson said: “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 also planning for our annual ferry refit, required by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. 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.”

The spokesperson added: “Despite repeated efforts, we’ve yet to secure any financial support from New Forest District Council. We still have a long way to go, but we’re pleased to be able to bring you a positive update.

“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.”

As reported in the A&T, Cllr Dave Hills, a member of Totton and Eling Town Council, said questions were being raised over whether the firm could stay afloat.

Southampton, Isle of Wight and South of England Royal Mail Steam Packet Company (SIOW), the trading arm of Red Funnel, recently filed its accounts six months later than expected, on a “going concern” basis, meaning its directors believe it can operate for the next 12 months.

However, the accounts included a “Material Uncertainty related to Going Concern” (MUGC) clause, which warns Red Funnel could face serious financial issues by 30th September due to a £40.1million debt.

Cllr Hills said the future of the iconic Hythe ferry service was “looking bleak, given the apparent lack of financial stability at Red Funnel, and the failure to raise enough money to replace the damaged pontoon”.