Isle of Man Ferry Terminal to Undergo Urgent £1m Remedial Work
The Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool is set to undergo urgent remedial work this autumn, just 15 months after its opening. The adjustments are necessary due to operational issues identified during berthing trials of the Steam Packet's flagship vessel, the Manxman, and its backup, the Ben-my-Chree. The work will coincide with the Manxman's weekly winter service to Liverpool, affecting some sailings.
The problem arises from mooring lines clashing with dolphin fenders at low tides, disrupting winter sailings. Engineers have been working on solutions but were unable to address the issue during the summer due to the daily docking of the fastcraft Manannan. The DOI has appointed contractors in Merseyside to carry out the work, with estimated costs ranging from tens of thousands to up to £1m. The Liverpool terminal was originally estimated to cost £70m in 2021, but the final cost remains unknown and will be revealed 65 weeks after completion.
To minimise disruption, sailings to and from Liverpool on November 1 and 2 will operate to Heysham instead, with coach transfers provided for foot passengers. The long-term goal of the upgrade is to reduce disruptions and ensure a more reliable connection between the Isle of Man and Liverpool. The DOI aims to collaborate with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and other stakeholders to achieve this.
The DOI's remedial work at the Liverpool ferry terminal is expected to improve operational reliability. While some sailings will be affected in the short term, the long-term benefits are anticipated to be significant. The final cost of the project will be known 65 weeks after completion.
