The Ferry Company has also announced that it will also be carrying foot passengers and cyclists from 7am on 17 June 2020. This follows extensive works in partnership with BCP Council to establish a safe queueing system to support social distancing for these passengers on the Sandbanks side in North Haven Car Park. BCP Council has provided financial support, facilitated by Department for Transport Emergency Active Travel Funding, for the cost of the queueing infrastructure.

Extra ferry company staff will be on hand to marshal the queue, and a queuing system has also been implemented to support social distancing on the Studland side.

“We would like to thank BCP Council for their assistance in ensuring we can welcome back foot passengers and cyclists,” said Mike Kean, managing director of Sandbanks Ferry Company. “While I know the service suspension has been difficult for many, we want to reassure passengers and our staff that they can again travel and work on the ferry safely.”

Foot passengers and cyclists will be required to wear face coverings while on board the ferry as per the government advice. These passengers will need to supply their own face covering, and anyone not wearing a proper face covering will not be able to travel. Motorcyclists will be required to keep their helmet on while on board, and vehicle passengers will not be allowed to leave their vehicles or open windows while on the ferry, and convertible cars must travel with their roofs up.

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council Portfolio Holder for Transport and infrastructure said, “We are pleased to have assisted the Sandbanks Ferry Company with measures to allow pedestrian and cycle passengers to queue safely on the Sandbanks side. Ensuring provision is made for sustainable and healthy travel modes, meets key council key aims tackling congestion and climate issues and ensures all passengers are served.”

The Sandbanks Ferry Company has also procured sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) for all staff members to use once the ferry returns. All staff have been trained on how to effectively use it and maintain social distancing whilst working. Recruitment for additional seasonal staff to help deliver the new health and safety measures is also underway.

Mike Kean added, “I would also like to pay tribute to the entire team who have worked extremely long hours over recent weeks to get the ferry ready to return in a safe way, and to carry out this year’s refit works ahead of schedule.”

Details of the ferry timetable can be found at: http://www.sandbanksferry.co.uk/timetable.php.

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