Hoverspeed shuts Dover-Calais route

Thursday, 07 Nov, 2005 0

Hoverspeed is to withdraw from the Dover-Calais route from today saying it can no longer sustain losses on the English Channel.

The fast ferry company admitted that “many jobs” would be at risk following the decision.

Hoverspeed’s two SeaCats are being withdrawn and the company will retain some staff to maintain the vessels while a decison is made on the future deployment of the craft.

The final service from Dover will be at 17.30 today, with the return from France at 20.15.

Hoverspeed, which was advertising crossings from £29 one-way for a car and five passengers on its website, said passengers with forward bookings will be contacted and arrangements made for them to travel with another operator.

The company is pulling out of Dover-Calais despite a 17% rise in vehicle carryings this year.

A spokesman said: “We have implemented a number of changes to the business over the last few years in an effort to improve our financial performance, including moving to a season service.

“However, despite vehicle carryings increasing by 17% this year there remains surplus capacity on the Dover-Calais route and our average yields have declined.

“We have also seen a dramatic increase in the price of fuel – up 54% from last year – and this, coupled together with a diminished market and less retail opportunities have been the principal causes of our financial problems.”

The spokesman added: “The regrettable decision to cease operations has not been taken lightly and it is a sad moment.

“I would like to pay tribute to all Hoverspeed staff for their hard work, flexible working practices and effort over the years.

“We shall be looking at various options as to how we may assist those employees who may now face redundancy.”

Report by Phil Davies

Phil Davies

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