Passengers 'in the dark' over suspended Mersey ferry

BBC The white and black  Royal Daffodil on the River Mersey with the multi-colured Dazzle Ferry in the backgroundBBC
There has been no Mersey ferry service since 10 October

A councillor has criticised what she said was an "unacceptable" lack of information about when the Mersey ferry service will return.

The Snowdrop has been out of action for several weeks due to what the operator said iwas a technical issue and the new £26m Royal Daffodil is yet to start passenger services.

Councillor Liz Makinson, a member of the Liverpool City Region's transport committee, said no specific reason had been issued and "we are as much in the dark as everybody else is".

The Combined Authority said teams were working to get the Snowdrop back on the river and replacement buses were running during peak hours.

A service update on the Mersey Ferries website said: "Unfortunately, Mersey Ferries services are currently suspended.

"If you usually travel with us on the morning or evening commuter service, don't worry, there's a replacement bus running between Hamilton Square and Seacombe.

"Tickets for the Liverpool Sightseeing River Cruise are also currently unavailable.

"We're really sorry for the inconvenience. We know disruption is never ideal and we really appreciate your patience.

"We'll keep you updated as soon as we know more."

Yellow smoke can be seen above the black, white and red ferry, out on the Mersey, with the Pier Head just visible in foreground.
The new Royal Dafodil, launched to much fanfare, is yet to start passenger services

Makinson said: "It's really not good enough.

"If something does go wrong, you are absolutely transparent and you give people up to date information, you don't just say until further notice.

"How can anybody plan with that? It's not acceptable."

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority thanked passengers for their understanding.

"For the morning and afternoon commuter services there is a replacement bus between Seacombe and Hamilton Square. Liverpool Sightseeing River Cruise tickets are not currently available," it said.

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