Ferry service suspended due to landing repairs

A popular foot passenger ferry has been suspended from operation after safety concerns at its landing area.

Problems with the concrete steps on the West Lynn side of the King's Lynn ferry were identified during planned maintenance work.

While the ferry is privately run, West Norfolk Borough Council helps to fund its upkeep, most recently producing a grant of £20,600.

About 400 people use the ferry weekly to travel across the River Great Ouse from West Lynn into King's Lynn town centre.

The problem was identified during scheduled maintenance on the West Lynn side of the ferry landing on 14 January.

There were structural issues and cracked concrete on the steps used to get on and disembark the boat.

In the interests of public safety, a joint decision was taken with Norfolk County Council to close the landings - and therefore the ferry crossing - while further work was undertaken.

West Norfolk Council said the ferry landings were likely to remain closed for several weeks while further work was undertaken to explore how it would safely reopen.

Councillor Michael De Whalley, cabinet member for climate change and biodiversity, thanked council staff who worked to help stranded passengers get home following the closure.

"The safety of ferry customers and staff is our top priority and the ferry landings will remain closed until we know the access steps are safe to use," he said.

"I understand there are nine other steps on the West Lynn side of the ferry landing now showing similar deterioration and will require attention before the ferry resumes its service."

Richard Stannard, operator of the West Lynn Ferry, said: "It's understandable that we have had to cease our crossings while this safety work is carried out.

"We will be working with the council to ensure the ferry can reopen as soon as possible."

The King's Lynn Civic Society said a ferry had carried passengers across the river since 1285, when the town was one of the most significant ports in England.

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