Crowdfunding campaign launched to save Hythe Ferry

The Hythe Ferry has not run since last August because a mooring pontoon at the end of the pier needs replacing at a cost of £250,000.

Hythe county councillor Malcolm Wade is urging local authorities on both sides of Southampton Water to help foot the bill.

But his request has so far fallen on deaf ears, despite receiving the backing of New Forest East MP Sir Julian Lewis.

A mooring pontoon at the end of Hythe Pier needs to be replaced at a cost of £250,000 (Image: Newsquest)

The crowdfunding campaign has been launched by the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, which has been told by its parent company, Red Funnel, that it must raise some of the cash itself.

Ashleigh Mutimear owns the pier and is also an employee of the ferry service.

READ MORE: Local authorities reject plea to help save Hythe Ferry

She said: "Following extensive outreach, we are deeply disappointed that no local authority has yet been able to provide any financial support for the urgent repair works required.

"With peak season fast approaching, it is vital we secure the necessary funding to resume this critical service.

"We continue to engage with local authorities and note the support of Sir Julian Lewis."

"Our region benefits from central funding for bus services. Ferry transport, despite its vital role in local connectivity, currently receives no such support."

The Hythe Ferry has not run since August 2024, when a mooring pontoon at the end of the pier was found to be damaged (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Mutimear said "positive discussions" with local businesses had already resulted in a funding pledge of £15,000.

She added: "Red Funnel has provided significant investment, including a complete vessel refit and ongoing upgrade works. We anticipate the business will provide a level of funding to support the essential repair works.

"However, as an independent business, the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company must provide an indication of funding it is able to raise autonomously.

"Many in the community have asked how they can contribute and we greatly appreciate this support.

"To facilitate this, we have set up a dedicated donation page 'help-to-return-our-ferry-service', allowing individuals to help secure the future of Hythe Ferry.

"With the required funding we can implement our robust business plan, ensuring a sustainable, long-term future for the ferry, supporting not just commuters but also local businesses, tourism, and the overall economic wellbeing of the area."

READ MORE: Councils urged to secure future of Hythe Ferry by funding new £250,000 pontoon

Red Funnel's chief executive, Fran Collins, has said: "We are passionate about maintaining this vital transport link.

"Since the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company was incorporated to save the ferry in 2023, we've operated 5,500+ crossings and carried 70,000 passengers, proving how essential this service is.

"But now, without urgent repairs, its future is at risk."