Mersey ferry out of action for several more weeks

A Mersey ferry service is due to be out of action for several more weeks because of an "ongoing mechanical issue" with its engine.

The Snowdrop, nicknamed the Dazzle Ferry, has already been out of service for several weeks, and further delays mean there will be no services during the half-term holidays.

Mersey Ferries said: "Whilst engineers are currently working to rectify the issue, it is likely the Snowdrop will remain out of service for several weeks."

The Combined Authority said replacement buses were running during peak hours.

Councillor Liz Makinson, a member of the Liverpool City Region's transport committee, complained about the lack of information about the ferry service, saying councillors had been left "in the dark" along with passengers.

The disruption comes as the £26m Royal Daffodil is yet to start passenger services.

The vessel, which is the first new Mersey Ferry to be built in 60 years, was officially launched a month ago in Liverpool.

But the ferry, made by Birkenhead-based shipbuilder Cammell Laird, is yet to run a full passenger service because it is undergoing "essential works".

Mersey Ferries said it was "hopeful of being able to welcome passengers aboard in early November".

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