Harbour authority jobs at risk after ferry axed

Thirteen jobs at a harbour authority are at risk after the loss of a cross-Channel ferry service left it facing a £3.5m loss of revenue.

Poole Harbour Commissioners cited Brittany Ferries' "disappointing" decision to end the Barfleur passenger and freight service between Poole and Cherbourg.

Brittany Ferries will operate the route between the two ports for the final time on 31 October, ending a link that has existed since 1985. The company said in June that the move was driven by its own financial challenges.

Capt Brian Murphy, the commissioners' chief executive, said the news was "devastating" for affected staff.

"There is no good way to do this but there is a right way and our colleagues at risk of redundancy will be treated with the respect they fully deserve," he said.

"The loss of this cross-Channel service is a significant setback, but we will remain focused on maintaining the port and harbour's position as a key regional economic gateway.

"We will continue to explore new opportunities that support the long-term success of the port and the wider economy."

The harbour authority said it remained committed to its partnership with Brittany Ferries and DFDS to facilitate high-speed craft services to the Channel Islands and St Malo.