Mersey Ferries services are making a welcome return to Seacombe, Wirral following a major upgrade of the ferry terminal that has welcomed passengers for hundreds of years.
• Commuter and River Explorer services will run from Seacombe
• Woodside will close for works to the landing stage
• Upgrades are part of plans to enhance the Mersey Ferries for future generations
• New commuter bundle tickets to be introduced to reflect hybrid working and encourage more people on board
Both Commuter and River Explorer Cruises will start running from Seacombe on Monday 17 October, for the first time since it closed nearly two years ago and ahead of the opening of the Eureka! Science + Discovery in the coming weeks.
As part of this multi million pound investment, both the 130-year-old linkspan bridges were replaced, signifying a major piece of engineering work which can be viewed online.
The landing stage has been refurbished and passengers will notice new powered gangways to help people get on and off the ferry easily and safely as well as a contemporary ticket office area – integrating fully with the new Eureka! Science and Discovery attraction.
Following the successful completion of this project, attention will now turn to Woodside Ferry Terminal, Wirral, which is set to close for a similar upgrade closely linked to wider regeneration plans for the local area.
Improvement works at both ferry terminals are part of the Combined Authority’s plans to help make sure the iconic ferries can sail along the River Mersey for generations to come, helping passengers to cross the river quickly while taking in the best views of the Liverpool and Wirral waterfronts.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Transport and Air Quality portfolio holder for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority said:
“It’s fantastic news that ferry services will be returning to Seacombe soon and we’re extremely grateful for the patience our loyal customers have shown while these improvement works have taken place.
“The re-opening of Seacombe will allow us to begin works at Woodside and bring it up to the same standard and support the on-going regeneration works in Birkenhead.
“The Mersey Ferries are an important part of our cultural identity in the city region. These works at both of our Wirral terminals will make sure the ferries can continue to operate from there for many years to come.”
New commuter ticket bundles for 3 and 5 days will also be available in a move to make it easier for passengers who may only be travelling for part of the week to use the ferries.
Passenger numbers on the Mersey Ferries have recovered strongly following a significant drop during the Covid pandemic.
The latest data suggests the number of people enjoying the ferries has risen to pre-pandemic levels, with significant further growth predicted over the coming years.
More information is available online and you can read our blog about the hidden history of Seacombe Ferry Terminal.