Liverpool ferry terminal won't be open in time for TT

Berthing trials are still taking place

The new Liverpool ferry terminal won't be open in time for TT.

Work on the facility - which is costing more than £70 million - began in 2019 and has been blighted with delays and soaring costs ever since.

Government now says it wants to ensure a 'smooth transition' to the new facility and avoid the busiest time of year for the tourism industry.

Berthing trials, which began in March, are still taking place.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall says: ‘Ensuring the safety of passengers by enabling the captains to become familiar with the demands of the new berth is of the utmost importance, and it’s therefore vital that the operational requirements of the Steam Packet and its staff are taken into full consideration. 

'Planning the first sailing after this year’s TT festival is the correct decision in the interests of continuity and passenger safety while staff become accustomed to new surroundings and procedures.’

Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson says: ‘Safety is the Steam Packet Company’s priority and we are pleased we can perform the required safety trials and training necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and crew once the facility is ready for public use.’'

It's still not known exactly when the terminal will welcome its first passengers.