Red Funnel ferry port redevelopment gets go-ahead

Plans to transform a ferry terminal on the Isle of Wight have been given the go-ahead.

Red Funnel's proposal for the redevelopment of its port in East Cowes include a new terminal building, automated check-in and a new marshalling yard with capacity for more than 350 vehicles.

The ferry operator said the redevelopment was the "foundation of a new era of reliable, sustainable travel".

Isle of Wight Council's planning committee granted conditional permission for the plans as well as an outline proposal for up to 30 homes, a flexible commercial space and an 80-bedroom hotel.

The application site spans Venture Quays, the Trinity House Depot and Wharf and the Red Funnel marshalling yard including Trinity and Phoenix Yard in Dover Road and Castle Street.

Red Funnel said its plans were aimed at reducing traffic congestion in East Cowes and "greater service resilience" for passengers.

Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: "We're investing in a more resilient and cleaner future, providing a port that meets the needs of the community and supports the island's growth for decades to come.

"This redevelopment is the foundation of a new era of reliable, sustainable travel and a fleet designed to serve the Isle of Wight's needs, with resilience and care at its heart."

Plans for a new terminal building and marshalling yard were given the go-ahead in 2017 but were put on hold in 2021 because of the pandemic.

Planning committee members approved the plans but Empowering Islanders representative Peter Spink and the Green Party's councillor Claire Critchison voted against.

Critchiston said there was a lack of traffic calming measures and Spink described the development as an "eyesore".

East Cowes Town Council also objected to the scheme, criticising the parking provision for the hotel, the loss of the public slipway and potential flood risk.

Red Funnel said it would be releasing its timeline for the development in the coming months.

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