Floating Bridge 6 has successfully undergone its five-yearly safety inspection and will be heading back to Cowes next week.
Photographs show the vessel in a dry dock facility in Falmouth, Cornwall, where the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) carried out a full ‘Out of Water Survey’ – a legal requirement for all chain ferries.
Jordan: Aim to return ferry to service as swiftly and safely as possible
Cllr Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said,
“I’m pleased to report that the floating bridge has successfully completed its MCA safety inspection.
“We have also taken this opportunity to do some other routine works to the vessel, such as repainting, works to electrical systems and an update to the on-board CCTV.
“Our aim now is to return the ferry to service as swiftly and safely as possible.”
Due back in service a week earlier than planned
The vessel is due to arrive in Cowes on Monday morning (4th April).
It will undergo a final inspection by the MCA on Tuesday 12th April with the aim of returning the vessel to service on 13th April – a week earlier than expected.
A launch service will remain in operation for foot passengers and cyclists until that time.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
