Emergency funding secured to maintain boating services between Scilly Isles
Council of the Isles of Scilly successfully obtains government support
The Council of the Isles of Scilly has successfully secured government funding to maintain crucial inter-island boating services over the winter months.
This emergency financial support ensures continued boat services between St Agnes and St Mary's, and between St Martin's and St Mary's, from the listings of service lapses over the colder season.
Chairman of the Council Cllr Joel Williams, thanked ministers and officials for approving the funding.
He said: "Inter-island boating services play an essential role in keeping the islands connected. In recent years, operators have come under increasing financial pressure to maintain services over the winter.
"This support from government will allow the Council to work with the communities on St Agnes and St Martin’s, and boat operators, to put in place services for this winter."
Cllr Williams added that they will be working with the government to look for a more sustainable long-term solution
Cllr Harry Legg, Local Member for St Agnes added his thanks to service providers John Peacock and his family
He said: “Their knowledge and skills, and those of their crews, in handling the boats that we have relied on as a community on such a tempestuous route have been invaluable.
"Due to the nature of the decision, it was important to keep the news confidential until John was able to consult his staff, but I am delighted to be able to share this news with the community now."
Councillor Geoff White, Local Member for St Martin’s, added: "I would also like to thank the community on St Martin’s for their patience at this anxious time.
"Having not had our own boating service for a few years now, we rely on a patchwork of local operators to provide our boating, and we are grateful to all of them for the services that keep our community running.
"This support from government ensures our essential boating during the winter months will continue.
"I look forward to working with residents, the Council, and operators to make sure that winter services meet community needs."
Economic, tourism, and transport lead member Cllr Robert Francis stated that the Council aims to utilise this funding as a stepping stone towards achieving year-round transport resilience across all Isles of Scilly.
Next Steps
The Council will hold meetings with the communities of St Agnes and St Martin’s, inviting feedback on desired winter boat services.
After consultation, tenders will be issued for operators who wish to bid for providing these services.
This tender process will take up to four weeks, following which successful operators will be announced.
The community meetings' arrangements will be communicated once finalised.