Have your say on a fast ferry linking North Devon and Somerset to Swansea

People have been urged to have their say on a new survey to find out if there is enough demand for a Swansea car ferry linking Wales to North Devon and Somerset.

The research is being carried out by Ocean Prime Industries Limited via an online survey part-funded by Swansea Council and researchers are keen to hear from people in North Devon and Torridge.

It is very early days but Ocean is exploring the possibility of teaming up with the proposed West Somerset Lagoon project to create a modern car ferry terminal at Minehead as part of the tidal energy lagoon and marina project.

Above: Minehead in Somerset is an area being explored as a possible place for a fast ferry car terminal as part of the West Somerset Lagoon ambitions. Credit: Rob Farrow

Ocean chief executive Dave Sampson stressed it is very early in the process and said no decisions had been take yet on the type of ferry or the ports where it might go, including Ilfracombe or other potential destinations.

He told the Gazette: “We are at a very early stage of the research, which is about finding out is there is enough demand for a ferry. We are asking people to vote yes, no or maybe and leave a comment on our website and so far more than 98% of the nearly 3,500 have voted yes. 

"Votes have been received from people from many places along both coasts, including from North Devon. What the research is telling us so far, is that the service should be affordable and be able to transport cars.”

The West Somerset Lagoon project is an ambitious scheme that seeks to create a permanent marina and harbour for 300 boats in the Bristol Channel’s high tidal range, combined with tidal power turbines, as well as solar panels and wind turbines to generate energy.

On shore there would be redevelopment, a new promenade, businesses, restaurants and suggestions such as an open-air theatre and cinema.

Mr Sampson said a zero-emission fast ferry service would bring great benefits for both coasts, including creating jobs, boosting tourism and helping to reduce traffic congestion on the M5 and M4 motorways.

He added: “There have been no decisions taken as to the type of ferry (except that it will be zero-emission), or where the ferry might go: All ports and harbours remain part of our consideration. If there is enough demand, the ferry might serve several destinations.

“I am sure you are aware that whilst all ports or harbours are more suitable for foot passengers as evidenced by the Waverley (paddlesteamer) schedule, not all would be suitable for car embarkation or disembarkation."

Above: Many people who replied to the Ocean fast ferry survey used the Waverley paddlesteamer as an example of the benefits of ships calling into Ilfracombe. Credit: Ian Paterson

Mr Sampson concluded: “I would be pleased to hear from more of your readers from across North Devon and particularly from ports and harbours, including Ilfracombe, Bideford, Appledore, Barnstaple, Lynmouth and possibly smaller harbours such as Clovelly or Combe Martin.

“If any residents and businesses would like a ferry, they can vote and leave a comment as to which port or harbour they would prefer to embark at, and what is their preferred destination - there are no wrong answers!”

If you would like to have your say on a proposed new ferry linking Wales with North Devon and Somerset, please go to https://oceanprime.co/en/boat-lab/ferry-research/vote/