A public meeting called by Cowes and East Cowes Town Councils takes place tonight (Thursday) from 7pm.
The purpose of the meeting is to hear residents’ views on the Isle of Wight council proposal to introduce a 50p each way foot passenger charge on the Floating Bridge at Cowes for over 18s.
Council officers say the introduction of foot passenger fares will attract £400,000 per annum income for the council, but two councillors have argued the calculations are flawed and that introducing the fares will cost the council more than it would receive. The floating bridge currently runs at a profit of close to £250,000 pa.
Government funding for new floating bridge
The proposal was originally put forward when the council faced he prospect of having to raise £3-4m to replace the 38 year old floating bridge.
However, following news of Government funding the council has begun the procurement of a new floating bridge.
Have your say tonight
The meeting takes place at Town Hall, York Avenue, East Cowes from 7pm.
Image: ronsaunders47under CC BY 2.0
