Isle of Wight ferry companies have shared their views following a protest and major transport forum on the Island yesterday (Wednesday).
Wightlink, Red Funnel and Hovertravel have issued statements off the back of the Isle of Wight Ferries Roundtable at the Island Sailing Club in Cowes. Mike Kane MP, the Minister for Aviation, Maritime Security chaired the meeting.
High Street demo
Ahead of the forum, a demonstration took place on Cowes High Street and the transport minister was confronted by campaigners dressed as pirates.
The three cross-Solent operators took part in the meeting which was ‘organised to facilitate discussion on the perceived issues affecting people’s ability to rely upon vital Isle of Wight ferry services’, according to an official briefing.
“A good exchange of views and some positive next steps to take forward”
A spokesperson for Wightlink said,
“Wightlink was pleased to contribute to the Isle of Wight Ferries Roundtable in Cowes, chaired by Maritime Minister Mike Kane and attended by officials from the Department for Transport.
“There was a good exchange of views and some positive next steps to take forward. Everyone at Wightlink cares about the needs and concerns of our Island customers and we are committed to working in partnership with all roundtable participants to support and grow the Island’s economy by bringing more visitors across the Solent.”
“The meeting was open and productive”
Fran Collins, CEO at Red Funnel, said,
“Our focus continues to be on providing a reliable and sustainable lifeline service for the Island community.
“The meeting was open and productive, and I look forward to a continued collaborative approach.”
“We value the opportunity to collaborate”
Hovertravel’s spokesperson said,
“Hovertravel continues to be committed to understanding and supporting the needs of our Island community.
“We value the opportunity to collaborate with the local council and the Minister’s office alongside all roundtable participants, as we work together to grow the Island’s economy, ensuring we meet the local community’s travel needs and encouraging more visitors to travel across the Solent.”
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
