Knott End ferry future in doubt again

The future of the much-loved Fleetwood to Knott End Ferry has been cast into doubt after a new statement from Wyre Council.

The borough authority, which co-funds the ferry with Lancashire County Council today confirmed that the service was due to end on April 15. 

This latest statement comes months after an agreement appeared to have been reached that the service would run for another three years.

Campaigner Anton Arenko, who started a petition last year when funding for the service seemed to be in doubt, described the latest announcement as a “massive blow”.

Wyre says the ferry’s future is now in doubt  because “no compliant tenders were received” to operate it after the current contract with Wyre Marine Services ends next week.

What Wyre Council says

The statement, posted on Wyre’s social media page this afternoon, said: “Wyre Council has today confirmed that the Fleetwood–Knott End ferry service is due to end on 15 April 2026 

“The Council remains in discussion with the current operator, Wyre Marine Services, regarding the future of the service.

“Over the past 18 months, the Council, working closely with Lancashire County Council, who jointly subsidise the existing service, has taken extensive steps to secure the long term future of the ferry. 

“This has included early market engagement, a formal open tender process in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023, and detailed discussions with organisations that expressed an interest in operating the service.

“Unfortunately, no compliant tenders were received, and subsequent discussions have not yet identified a financially viable and deliverable proposal that would allow the service to continue beyond the current contract.

“If the service does not continue past 15 April 2026, the Council remains committed to exploring alternative options, including discussions with potential future operators and reviewing how existing Council assets could help support any future service

“We recognise the ferry is an important part of daily life for many residents, businesses and visitors. The Council will continue to work with partners and will keep the community informed of any developments. “

Campaigner and film-maker Mr Arenko, an avid supporter of the ferry, made an affectionate film called End to End about the ferry,  which has been operating in various forms since the 19th century.

He said: “I am truly gobsmacked right now. I have no words left.

“I’m very confused how, despite our campaigning, they’ve allowed this to happen, I and the public were led to believe we were successful and a contract had been secured for another three years.

“This is a massive blow to a town that has lost too much.”