Deadline set for decision on ferry service from Weymouth
Weymouth Town Council's have been trying to attract a ferry service back to Weymouth Harbour
Last updated 29th Jun 2021
A deadline's been agreed for determining whether a future ferry service from Weymouth Harbour will be viable.
A number of Weymouth Town Councillors have been exploring options over recent months to attract a ferry service back to Weymouth harbour.
Cllr Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, with special responsibility for Regeneration and Development in Weymouth, has agreed the deadline of 30 June 2022 for this work with town councillors in order to inform the Harbours Strategy and the wider development plans for the Peninsula.
If a ferry service were to return to Weymouth harbour, it would significantly influence the future development of the Peninsula. Should it be found that it is not viable to attract a ferry service back to Weymouth harbour, alternative uses for that area will be considered to ensure that the site supports the harbour and contributes to the economic regeneration of the town.
Weymouth Town Councillors leading the ferry service exploration work have been asked to provide quarterly updates on progress over the course of the next year.
Meanwhile, over the coming year, Dorset Council officers are preparing for future development of the Peninsula, including ground condition work. A bid for funding for the Peninsula was also included in the Levelling Up submission for funding from Government, submitted last week, to help regenerate the area.
Cllr Tony Ferrari said:
“The Peninsula is one of the most important locations in Weymouth and we should deliver something truly ambitious and transformative on the site. We need to work closely together to achieve the maximum potential either with or without a ferry service.
“We’ve had recent conversations with the Pavilion, and I am keen to see the ongoing provision of arts and music on the Peninsula. Later this year, we intend to engage local residents, businesses and developers and have a public conversation about people’s aspirations for the site.”