Government has secured a site in Liverpool for the development of a new ferry terminal.
The Department of Infrastructure says it’s completed negotiations with Peel Land and Property Limited for the long-term ownership of a site at Princess Half Tide Dock.
The decision to acquire the land was made by Tynwald in July 2016 after it was revealed the existing Pier Head facility would undergo major redevelopment as a cruise liner berth.
Funding for the project is subject to approval from Tynwald - the new terminal is scheduled to open in 2021.
The site lies just 800 metres downriver of the existing facility, which will be taken out of use once the new Isle of Man Ferry Terminal is ready.
The DOI says it will benefit from improved highway access being provided in partnership with Liverpool City Council.
The land acquired by the Department includes historic dockyard features that will be integrated into the final design.
A planning application will soon be submitted to Liverpool City Council to seek detailed approval for the scheme.
Once completed, the new terminal will provide a massive improvement for travellers with modern facilities for all types of users.
A linkspan will be designed to handle loads of up to 120 tonnes as the Department’s agreement with the Peel Group allows the site to be used for freight during winter weekends and emergencies.
The site will also be able to handle bus, coach and light commercial traffic all year.
Minister Ray Harmer says: “Establishing the Island’s own ferry terminal in Liverpool is vital for providing security for our social and economic wellbeing, and the need to secure such a strategically important asset was acknowledged in the Programme for Government.
“I very much look forward to our development being a key part of the exciting Liverpool Waters scheme and am pleased that with the purchase of this site the Isle of Man Government now has complete control over its lifeline sea links to the United Kingdom.”
Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson says: “The new Isle of Man Terminal is a critical piece in our regeneration plans for the north shore of Liverpool and I’m delighted that this deal has been struck between the Isle of Man Government and Peel to progress the scheme.
“The City Council is investing a huge amount of money in the transport infrastructure to support this new facility and we look forward to its completion.
“The Isle of Man and Liverpool have a historic relationship and this new ferry terminal will cement our strong links and forge even closer ties into the future.”
