East Cowes Councillors Reject Proposed Floating Bridge Fare Rise
Plans to increase fares on the Floating Bridge have been rejected by East Cowes Town Council, with concerns also being raised about how an estimated £820,000 in extra income has been calculated.
The town council has called on Isle of Wight Council's Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee to reject the proposed fare increases when it meets today (Tuesday).
The proposals would increase charges for motorists and foot passengers, while under-19s would be charged £1 to use the crossing between 7pm and 7am.
Council papers estimate the main fare increase could generate £820,584 a year, but describe the figure as indicative.
Cllr Jock Rafferty, who represents Cowes North and sits on the committee, says officers have confirmed that the calculation assumes around a quarter of current users would stop using the Floating Bridge if fares increase.
He says no evidence has been provided to support that assumption.
Cllr Rafferty is also questioning whether the calculation properly accounts for the fares currently paid by those users who are expected to stop using the service.
The town council has described the proposed increases as unjustified, citing concerns about the reliability, performance and affordability of the Floating Bridge.
It wants the proposals referred to the council's Floating Bridge working group, with alternatives considered to reduce the impact on residents, businesses and other users.
It is also calling for greater priority to be given to a long-term solution for crossing the Medina, including the council's previous commitment to replace the current vessel.
The proposals are intended to form part of the council's savings plans for 2027/28.
The committee is meeting at County Hall in Newport from 5pm today.
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