Share your views on the future of Cowes Floating Bridge

The public is being asked to give its views on the future of the Cowes/East Cowes floating bridge.

A series of engagement opportunities including public drop-in information sessions is being launched by the Isle of Wight Council following a decision by its Cabinet last year to replace the current chain ferry.

The Cabinet also agreed to commission a River Medina Crossing Strategy with an updated business case, options appraisal, output specification and procurement strategy so that any such purchase could ensure best value for council tax-payers.

In recent months, transport experts have been reviewing all available options, against a range of criteria including affordability, sustainability, value for money, reliability and the need to minimise traffic congestion on the local road network.

Following detailed analysis and initial consultation with key stakeholders including Cowes and East Cowes town councils, Cowes Harbour Commission and elected Isle of Wight Council members from both sides of the river, the most viable possibilities are being put forward for further consideration.

These options are:

• New vessel: Replacement of the existing floating bridge with a new floating bridge (FB7).
• Modify existing vessel and/or the operational environment option: through a phased approach involving additional control chains and/or tidal flow reduction and/or adding flush thrusters to the existing vessel.
• Do minimum: Maintain and operate the existing floating bridge with the continued use of the push boat.
  

Options ruled out include a new Medina bridge, a tunnel, a new type of vessel to make the crossing and also the option of discontinuing a service.

During the forthcoming engagement, the public will be given the chance to air their views in a number of ways including a survey on the council’s website and drop-in sessions where people can speak to industry experts and council representatives, including those directly responsible for operating the floating bridge.

The drop-in sessions will be between 3-7pm at East Cowes Town Hall on July 22, Northwood House, Cowes, on July 23 and The Riverside Centre, Newport on July 31. The online sessions will take place on 7 August 12-1.30pm and 12 August 6-7.30pm

There will also be online sessions for anyone unable to make these events. 

• Take part in the survey
  

The consultation is being publicised Island-wide and directly to floating bridge users and ends on 22 August 2025.