Additional £13 million needed for Isle of Man Liverpool ferry terminal
The Manx government may need to spend an additional £13.8m to progress the Isle of Man ferry terminal in Liverpool.
According to a statement and reports by the BBC, the sum is required to address a number of issues that have arisen since the project to build the terminal at Prince’s Half-Tide Dock began in November 2019 after Tynwald (the parliament of the Isle of Man) approved funding of £38.05m. Media reports state the project is already over budget by £5m.
The issues regarding the project include on-site social distancing requirements, key staff being unable to attend the site, delays in the supply chain caused by social distancing in factories, supply chain firms being unable to stay in business and a shortage of building materials.
Infrastructure minister Tim Baker MHK says: “Tynwald members are being briefed on all the issues facing this important project, which will cement the Island’s maritime connection with the heart of Liverpool for future generations.
“The effects of the pandemic continue to be felt, and should not be underestimated in a project of this scale. In addition, unforeseen problems mean solutions must be paid for which were not originally forecast and accommodated within the approved budget.”
Baker adds: “The current completion date agreed with the contractor is March 2022. However, it’s crucial people understand that finding and implementing a solution to the quay wall protection issue and overcoming other challenges mean this is likely to move into the following year.”
The project will be debated again by politicians at the July sitting of Tynwald.
