Impact

The environmental consultants state that there will be little or no increased impact on ecology with the introduction of the new ferries.

Under the Habitats regulations, an assessment is only required for a Project or a Plan. The introduction of the new ferries is not a Project or a Plan but is considered to be an activity and, as such, does not require a formal assessment. Notwithstanding that, an Environmental Appraisal was carried out, which concluded the following:

• It is considered that there will be little or no increased impact on ecology when comparing the proposed ferry to the existing ferry.

• It is considered that any potential negative impacts which could affect erosion and bank stability could be mitigated by the control of operational vessel speeds.

• It is not considered that any increase in traffic as a result of the proposals would have a negative impact on the local area as the proposed ferry would carry fewer vehicles than the existing ferry was originally designed for, and in addition the local road connections have improved since the original ferries were introduced.

• It is not considered that there are any planning issues relating to the proposals as only minor on-shore works are proposed relating to improvements in ship-to-shore integration.

There is no additional dredging required or planned for the introduction of the new ferries. At maximum displacement they would draw just 2cm more than the existing ferries. However, operationally we expect the new ferries to operate at 0.15m less than the current C Class ferries when full laden. Around 113 tonnes of the deadweight capability is surplus to requirement.

The new ferries will be much more environmentally friendly than the old ferries. The new engines meet all EU emission standards, no cooling water will circulate out of the ship (it is all internal) and fuel consumption will be lower. The engines will be shut down in port, which is currently not the case with the C Class ferries.

There is no evidence to show that ferry wash plays any significant part in the loss of the salt marshes in land around the Lymington River/Estuary. In fact, the conclusion of all recent studies is that the retreat is a natural process due to the various factors, increasing tidal reach and average sea temperatures.

Impact on river users

The profile of the new ferries is not twice that of the existing ships (the above water lateral is 84% greater). The new ships will have no discernable additional effect other than for yachts being in the wind shadow for a few seconds longer.

No plans are yet in place to reduce the speed of the new ferries in the river. This will only happen if trials show that it is necessary and even then, probably only at low tide.

Wightlink is committed to working with the RLYC to ensure the continuation of the Junior Sailing Programme, and is already a financial sponsor to the JSP. Risk control measures are already in place and would remain in place when the new ferries come into service.

The control of movement and safety of vessels in the Lymington River is the responsibility of Lymington Harbour Commissioners. With the introduction of the new ferries Wightlink sees no reason why the continuation of sailing, including weekly Junior Sailing, should in any way be affected.

An appropriate assessment of their likely environmental impact.

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