A new Mersey Ferry is to be built for the first time in 60 years.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has commissioned the multimillion project to "ensure that the iconic Ferry Cross the Mersey will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.”
It is expected that the state-of-the-art new vessel will be constructed at the historic Cammell Laird shipyard in Birkenhead, supporting jobs, apprenticeships and development opportunities for the region.
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As well as the new vessel, extensive upgrade works will be carried out to one of the existing ferries.
Mayor Rotheram said: “The Mersey Ferries are not only a vital transport link between communities in the Liverpool City Region, they're also an important part of our identity.
"They’re well-loved by both residents and tourists alike, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to our area each year. But, as the current vessels are older than the Gerry and the Pacemakers song that helped make them world famous, they are becoming harder and harder to maintain and definitely in need of an upgrade.
“We’re making a significant investment in one brand new greener, more energy efficient and one upgraded vessel to ensure that the iconic Ferry Cross the Mersey will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
“It’s fantastic news for the region, and a fitting way to continue the legacy of Gerry Marsden and the Mersey Ferries. There have been boats crossings the Mersey since the 12th century and, thanks to our investment, here they’ll stay.”
Last year, the Combined Authority took the decision to pause the procurement process for a new vessel due to market pressures resulting from both Brexit and covid. However, following further conversations with bidders a solution has been found that will enable a modern, greener new ferry to be commissioned.
The new ferry will be designed to provide passengers with greater comfort, accessibility and an overall improved experience, in line with feedback received during consultation in 2018. There are also plans for extensive upgrade works on one of the existing vessels, to boost performance and reliability.
Focusing on the Mersey Ferries’ popularity as a major visitor attraction, it will be used for a variety of events and river cruises while also maintaining its role as a key part of the Liverpool City Region public transport system.
Janette Williamson, leader of Wirral Council and Deputy Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said: “It’s fantastic news that there will be a brand new Mersey Ferry, and that is set to be built here on the Wirral.
“This decision will bring huge benefits to the Liverpool City Region whilst safeguarding the vital cross-river link the ferries provide for generations to come.”
Subject to contract, it is expected that the project will see Wirral-based shipbuilders Cammell Laird work with Dutch naval engineering firm Damen on the build of a new Mersey Ferry. Shipbuilders Cammell Laird have a long heritage with Mersey Ferries, having built 15 of the vessels dating back to 1836 as well as well as helping to maintain the current fleet.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Damen are one of the largest naval engineering firms in the world, operating 35 shipyards across five continents.
It is hoped that the potential collaboration between the two companies will help deliver employment and development opportunities for workers in the city region, as well as tapping into international expertise and delivering value for money for local taxpayers.
David McGinley, Chief Executive of Cammell Laird said: “Cammell Laird have long been a proud part of the Mersey Ferries story and would be delighted for this to continue into the future. We are very close to agreeing the final contract arrangements and look forward to helping to deliver a new Mersey Ferry for the people of our city region.
This agreement is subject to final negotiations and contract award.
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