The Isle of Wight's floating bridge could be grounded until mid-October, despite assurances from the Isle of Wight Council's CEO.
The East Cowes to Cowes route has been out of action for more than two months. The vessel was taken out of service on July 14 for planned maintenance.
Isle of Wight Council CEO John Metcalfe revealed it was likely to operate again from some point this week, as Isle of Wight Radio previously reported.
However, it has yet to return to service - and now, the council says it might not do so for at least another fortnight.
A council spokesperson said:
"We are pleased to report that work to resolve the Hydraulic Problems with the Cowes Floating Bridge are nearing completion and we are sorry for the inconvenience caused by the continued delay in return to service.
"We can continue to press our contractors to do all they can to get the vessel back in the water as quickly as possible whilst making sure the chances of these faults reoccurring are reduced to the absolute minimum.
"The hydraulic rams have been removed, stripped down, inspected and have been rebuilt; the hydraulic system has been flushed and repairs to the hydraulic pumps and motors are nearing completion, however, the extent of work required to one of the motors has caused some further unexpected delay.
"Subject to this progressing to plan, the floating bridge should now return to the water in the week commencing 9 October. Following water based testing we now expect a return to full service in time for the start of half term 17 October."
The Isle of Wight Council added:
“We share the frustrations of the local community about the issues with the vessel and ability to provide a reliable service across the River Medina and apologise for the continued delays and ongoing disruption to the service.
"Once again we apologise for the inconvenience caused."
The chain ferry has already recorded a loss of more than £400,000 this year, according to the council leader.
Its unreliability has also prompted a petition, which has so far attracted more than 2,500 signatures.
The council says it will continue to provide the launch service for foot passengers from 0500 - 2300hrs (0630-2300hrs Sundays), until the vessel returns to full service.
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