Ferry return 'would boost city'

The ferry has not sailed out of Swansea since late 2006

The return of the Swansea to Cork ferry would boost tourism and business in south Wales, backers have said.

A consortium aiming to refloat the service, which ceased in 2006 after 19 years, have been talking to potential investors in Swansea.

They say they have raised £1.7m of the £2.5m private backing needed to restore the ferry by mid April but only have days left to secure the ship they want.

It is estimated the service is worth £70m to the combined economies.

Peter Isle of STS International said due to the strength of the Euro against the Pound many people in the north of the Irish Republic crossed the border to shop.

He was commissioned by the Port of Cork to look at the business plan.

Mr Isle said: "If there was a ferry service from Cork to Swansea there would be a weekend shopping opportunity to Irish residents."

We've got two ports who are keen and who can see the great benefits to this service Matthew Kennerkey, ABP Swansea

He said there would also be significant interest from hauliers on both sides of the Irish Sea and from tourists heading from the south of the UK and Europe to Cork.

The consortium has identified a 340 cabin ferry capable of carrying 1,400 passengers. It also has restaurants, bars and a cinema.

But the consortium only has a few days left before it must finalise the bid.

The rest of the money would come from a loan issued by a bank with a vested interest in the boat, business interests in the shipping and freight industry, Cork County Council and other agencies.

Captain Frank Allen, who was involved with the previous operators, is heading the venture.

"Both ports miss the ferry, it was good business for the ports," he said.

Matthew Kennerkey, port director in Swansea, said: "It is a viable service with a sound business plan behind it.

"There is a suitable ship available at short notice... and a passionate operator.

"We've got two ports who are keen and who can see the great benefits to this service.

"All we need to do now is see the bridging of the funding gap."