New hovercraft trial backed by politicians
Politicians have welcomed a trial of a new hovercraft route, describing it as a major step towards improving cross-Solent travel.
The proposed service, which would connect Lee-on-the-Solent with the Isle of Wight, is being tested as part of efforts to explore faster and more flexible transport options across the Solent.
Caroline Dinenage, MP for Gosport, said the trial could help change how local waterways are viewed.
“For too long the waterways around the Gosport peninsula have been seen as obstacles, not connectors,” she said.
“The Hovertravel trials are a step in the right direction towards genuinely innovative transport solutions across the Solent.
“If the trials prove popular, and I am hopeful that they will be, we can have conversations about expanding the coverage.”
The trial has also been backed by Gosport councillor Lesley Meenaghan, who said it could bring economic and tourism benefits as well as improved commuting options.
Cllr Meenaghan, Conservative for Harbourside and Town, said: “The hovercraft trial is great news for Gosport.
“Improved connectivity with the Island is welcome – whether residents are visiting for a ‘trip out’ or commuting for work, reduced travel costs and quicker journey times will be genuinely welcome.
“Am I hopeful it continues? Absolutely. My message to residents is simple – use it, because demonstrating the demand is the best way to secure this service for the future.
“It also sits perfectly alongside the exciting regeneration of the former HMS Daedalus, a 42-acre mixed-use development. Better links across the Solent can only enhance that vision and bring more visitors to our area.”
The trial forms part of wider efforts to improve transport links between the mainland and the Isle of Wight, with hovercraft seen as a potential alternative to traditional ferry routes due to their speed and flexibility.
The proposed route will set off from the slipway at the Hovercraft Museum.
The first sailing will take place on June 28 followed by a second on August 22 and a third on September 5.
A spokesperson for Hovertravel Limited told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that further details on the trial will be released next month.