Sea transport is critical to the sustainability of the Isles of Scilly.
The two vessels that serve the Islands - the passenger vessel Scillonian III and the freighter Gry Maritha - are both nearing the end of their economic lives, and in order to maintain a service, it will be necessary to replace both vessels. In addition, the layout of St.Mary's Harbour and the physical constraints of berth have raised issues of health and safety, security and inefficiency of operations. Port security measures are being applied to all UK ports. Some changes are needed to improve the facilities at St.Mary's to ensure the Harbour's ongoing viability.
The Route Partnership was established to develop and promote proposals to safeguard the lifeline sea link between the mainland and the Islands and to secure funding for delivery. A study was undertaken into the various options for replacing the ferries and improving the berthing facilities, which has led to a preferred scheme in terms of improvements to the harbours of St.Mary's and Penzance, plus a new vessel capable of offering a combined passenger and freight service. Throughout these studies there has been extensive consultation with residents, visitors, environmental and heritage consultees.
The resulting proposed layout at St.Mary's provides the minimum of improvements in terms of an extension to the quay and associated infrastructure to address current issues, meet anticipated security legislation and provide berthing for an improved passenger and freight vessel.
A non-technical appraisal may be viewed as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process Opens in a new window
