Floating Bridge Lifeline: Push Boat Service to Stay Until 2025
The Isle of Wight Council’s push boat service is the unsung hero keeping Floating Bridge 6 afloat during fast ebb tides. Designed as a ‘lifeboat,’ it clears the chains that have caused problems, allowing crossings to continue without a hitch.
MV Seaclear: The Reluctant Lifesaver
Since 2018, the barge MV Seaclear has been on standby to support the floating bridge. Initially used on a short-term basis, it secured contracts in 2019 and again in 2020, shelling out over £390,000 to keep the service running.
New £658,000 Contract Up for Grabs
- The council is now offering a third contract worth £658,160, covering October 2022 to September 2025.
- They can extend for an extra two years but only in six-month chunks.
- Applicants must have a suitable vessel that requires no modifications to Floating Bridge 6.
Big Bucks for Lifeboat—Is It Worth It?
These three contracts will cost the council over £1 million in total. According to Floating Bridge fare prices, that’s equivalent to nearly 700,000 foot passenger return journeys or 437,000 cars crossing to break even.
The Isle of Wight Council declined further comment, saying talks with all stakeholders are ongoing regarding the Floating Bridge service’s future.
