Wightlink has responded to calls for greater control over Isle of Wight ferry fares, saying it recognises the importance of affordable travel but continues to face significant increases in the cost of running its services.
The ferry operator has issued a statement after Prime Minister Andy Burnham agreed to consider a proposal to regulate ferry prices during an exchange in the House of Commons yesterday (Tuesday), as previously reported by Island Echo.
Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson challenged the Prime Minister over what he described as the Island’s ‘number one cost of living issue’ – the price of travelling across the Solent.
Mr Robertson asked whether the Government would consider creating regulatory powers to control prices currently set by ferry companies. In response, the Prime Minister told the MP to “bring me a proposal”, adding that he would look seriously at the issue.
Now Wightlink has responded to the renewed political focus on cross-Solent fares.
Katy Taylor, CEO of Wightlink, has said:
“Ferries are lifeline services for the Isle of Wight, and we recognise how important reliable and affordable ferry travel is for residents, businesses and the wider Island economy.
“Like many transport businesses, we face significant cost pressures, including rising fuel costs, increases in national insurance and business rates, the introduction of the Government’s emissions levy and broader increases in operating costs, while continuing to provide reliable, year-round services.
Article continues below this advertisement “Many Island residents already travel using discounted and fixed-price products, and analysis shows the average Islander fare is around £39 per crossing for a car and up to seven passengers.
“We will soon meet with the Department for Transport and stakeholders, including Isle of Wight MPs, through the Cross Solent Transport Group to discuss the challenges facing ferry services and what more can be done to support Islanders and help drive economic growth on the Island.
“Our focus remains on working constructively with Government, local partners and Island communities to continue improving services.”
A series of monthly ferry meetings convened by the Department for Transport are due to begin later this month, bringing together stakeholders to discuss cross-Solent transport.
