EASTBOURNE FERRY

Evening Post, Volume CII, Issue 80, 1 October 1921, Page 9

EASTBOURNE FERRY

NEW STEAMER TO BE PURCHASED

A special meeting of the Eastbourne Borough Council was held last evening to consider tenders and specifications in connection with a proposal to purchase a. new ferry boat to augment the service provided by the Duchess and Cobar. The Mayor (Mr. F. H. Mather) presided, and all the councillors were present. The meeting was held in .committee, but, at the conclusion, the Mayor stated to a Post representative that the council had decided to submit a. proposal involving an outlay of £50,009 to the ratepayers oh the 2nd November. Tho amount specified is intended to provide for the cost of a steamer for the ferry service larger than either' of those at present in use, and will include the •cost of bringing the vessel out from England if it is decided'to purchase one of those offered there. The amount upon which the ratepayers will bo asked to vote also includes.the cost of reconditioning the present vessels, which mainly -'involves a new boiler for the Duchess.'

The Mayor further stated that the ■council felt that tho position demanded an improved ferry service by the addition of a modern steamer. The progress of tho borough during the past few years had been substantial, and satisfactory, and a better ferry service -would mean an even, more rapid advancement. The council had before it offers of over 20 vessels, some for new boats, but the majority for boats already built, many of the latter being German vessels' handed to Britain at the time of the Armistice. A final decision has not yet been made' as to which, vessel would, 'be purchased in the evont of the ratepayers giving their .sanction, but "Councillors," said Mr. Mather, "favour the purchase of a new ferry steamer built on the most up-to-date lines." Prior to the poll a meeting of ratepayers will be held, at which details of the proposal will be laid before those' present, iind th« scheme thoroughly explained. By that time a definite- decision will have been arrived at as to which of the vessels under offer, either h, new or a second-hand vessel, shall be purohMftd.