Work on the brand new Isle of Man ferry terminal in Liverpool is continuing to press ahead with new images showing the latest progress achieved on the project.
Plans for the new terminal were approved by Liverpool City Council ’s planning committee in April 2019. The project, which would see the Steam Packet company continuing to operate ferries from the city, is expected to be completed by June 2023.
Work initially began in November 2019 and was expected to have been completed by August 2021, but delays have seen the completion date moved back. Once open, the Manx Government will have invested over £70m into the project, having initially estimated it could cost in the region of £38m.
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The Manx Government told the ECHO last month that the Covid-19 pandemic was one of the main causes for the delays - with the impacts on the construction industry affecting the development. However significant progress is now being made on the terminal structure.
Last month the Manx Government confirmed the steelwork of the main terminal building had been fully erected with glazing being installed on the façade of the building. New photos by the ECHO show the panels of glazing wrapping around the perimeter of the main terminal.
The project represents the only development the Isle of Man Government has undertaken outside of the Island, and will be the only property it owns away from home shores. When completed it will replace the current facility at Princes Parade.
The main terminal building is targeted for completion by December 2022. A target date for sea trials is set for March 2023, with the overall completion date for the project June 2023.
Commenting on the importance of the project and its potential to enhance the island’s ties with Liverpool, Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said: “The Isle of Man and Liverpool share a long history and strong relationship stretching back centuries, and our ferry terminal project will only serve to cement this further.”
“Enabling a direct maritime link into the centre of the city was identified as a key factor when planning the project, and the terminal’s location will continue to support and build tourism, business and cultural connections with the North West region.
“While the construction project has encountered a range of challenges since it began, I was able to visit the site in February and see the progress being made for myself. The focus is now firmly on completion next year and having full control over our vital sea services for generations to come.”
