Floating bridge repair completed

Cowes floating bridge has resumed normal service following the repair of a faulty prow hinge. Remedial work was carried out for the vessel to be back in service on Cowes firework night last Friday, before the full repair was completed on Saturday. The original issue arose on Thursday. A workboat, provided by Cowes harbourmaster and funded by the Isle of Wight Council, is also being used to assist the floating bridge during the ebb tide. The boat helps to create a greater depth of water above the chains, meaning a backup passenger launch is no longer required at these times. The council is working with East Cowes firm Wight Shipyard and shipbuilders Mainstay Marine to find a long-term solution to the issue.