Hythe Pier still closed and future of ferry service unclear

The ferry service was suspended in August 2024 after a mooring pontoon at the end of the 640m structure was found to be unsafe.

The pier itself closed about three months ago after it emerged that its electrical system also needed major repairs.

Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company has given an update on both issues - without saying when the ferry and pier will be back in action.

Repairs to the electrical system on Hythe Pier have been completed, but the structure is still closed (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson said: "Essential works to support the pier and ferry operations are progressing, and we're pleased to confirm that the owners of Hythe Pier recently completed critical electrical repairs.

"This is an important step forwards but there is still work to be done to enable staff and customers to return safely and the pier to reopen.

"The ferry is a historic and much-loved service, and we are working hard behind the scenes, together with local partners, to find the right solution and secure a sustainable future."

The ferry company is a subsidiary of Southampton-based Red Funnel but operates as a separate business.

Opened in 1881, the Grade II-listed Hythe Pier extends 700 yards into Southampton Water (Image: Newsquest)

The pier is owned by Hythe resident Ashleigh Mutimear. Posting on social media, she said a report about the electrics had been completed, but stressed that decisions regarding its reopening were down to the ferry owners.

Hythe councillor Malcolm Wade added: "The communication from Red Funnel all along has been minimalistic to say the least and has recently been at an unacceptable level.

"Residents want our ferry back and our pier reopened. Both of these actions are within the power of Red Funnel and their new owners, Njord Partners.

"It is up to them to tell residents when those two things will happen."

The entrance to Hythe Pier, which was opened in 1881. The gates are currently locked (Image: Newsquest)

Parish and district councillor Mark Clark said: "Families who etched the names of loved ones into the wooden pier boards as lasting memorials are now unable to access them, with no clear explanation or timetable.

"This is not just a transport issue but a failure to recognise Hythe Pier as a shared community asset.

"Red Funnel and Njord Partners must be transparent about their intentions and take responsibility for the human impact of their decisions.”