The brand new Cowes Floating Bridge has taken to the water and is set to make its way to the Isle of Wight next week.
‘Floating Bridge No. 6’ has been built by Mainstay Marine in Pembrokeshire, Wales but is destined for Cowes, where it will serve the short but invaluable Cowes-East Cowes route for decades to come.
Once on the Island, the chain will be attached and several weeks of trials will take place. It is hoped she will welcome her first paying passengers at the beginning of May.
Executive member for transport and infrastructure, Councillor Ian Ward, said:
“We can’t wait to welcome floating bridge number 6 to the Island. She has left the manufacturer’s (Mainstay Marine Solutions Ltd) building shed and is currently moored in welsh waters, awaiting official sign-off from the Marine Coastal Authority (MCA), Mainstay Marine and ourselves, which is planned to take place on Monday 20 March.
“All being well, she will then be ready for towing to the Island, where on her arrival, she will begin a number of dock and operational trials; before the staff will be trained to handle her.”
