YOUR report on September 4 is correct about our work with partners at both New Forest District Council and Southampton City Council to find a solution to help the Hythe Ferry remain financially viable while passenger numbers are low during the Coronavirus outbreak.

However, while I would be happy to share the news with your readers that negotiations are heading in the right direction, I feel it’s important to be honest with passengers and be clear that this is not yet a done deal.

Our proposal is that the councils each contribute an equal amount of £15,000.

Making funding available to support the ferry in providing a public transport option for the area in these exceptional circumstances requires formal and transparent agreement by each local authority.

Until this confirmation from all three councils is received, it would not be right to let people think the matter is resolved.

Once a conclusion has been reached, we will certainly let people know the outcome.

Keith Mans

leader Hampshire County Council