Councillors will be asked to support a motion put forward by Cllr Jonathan Bacon at next week’s Full Council meeting over issues with ferry companies service and fares.
It expresses concern that neither the council nor stakeholders were consulted prior to Wightlink’s recent proposal to cut services and urges the council to take all possible steps it can to address the situation.
Cllr Bacon’s motion reads,
This Council is deeply concerned about further cuts to ferry services recently announced by Wightlink and the corresponding reduction in the service provided to Island Residents and visitors which has a direct impact upon the economy of the Island.
As the Local Transport Authority the Council notes with regret that Wightlink failed to consult or engage with the Council or other Island stakeholders about their proposals.
The Council is also very concerned about the levels of fares for crossings by motor vehicle on ferry services, which inhibits the ability of Island residents to travel for work, family, health and social reasons and again impacts greatly upon the economy of the Island and the quality of life for Island residents as well as having a direct effect on the tourist trade which is essential for the Island.
This Council resolves to take all possible steps it can to address this situation and, in addition, to support the Island’s Member of Parliament in any steps he may be seeking to take in respect of this issue, in particular raising the matter with the Office of Fair Trading.
Members of the public can watch the debate in person by attending the meeting that takes place on Wednesday 16th October from 6pm at County Hall, Newport.
Image: Mike Lawrence under CC BY 2.0
