COUNCILLORS have agreed to allow more time to explore whether a new ferry service might be launched in Weymouth.

The decision was taken at the full meeting of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council last night.

The Echo revealed earlier this week plans for a new high-speed passenger ferry service to France from Weymouth.

The operation would create 90 jobs and replace the gap left by Condor Ferries.

Cllr Kate Wheller, chairperson of the Harbour Board, said: “The council has agreed to the de-classification of the port’s restricted area, but also agreed to suspend this decision up until Saturday, October 31 at the latest to allow continued negotiations with the potential ferry service operator to take place.

“Negotiations have been very positive to date, but we feel this is a sensible move as it keeps our options open and gives us the best chance to bring a ferry service to the area while ensuring we are prudent in managing the future operation and finances of the harbour.”

As well as discussing Weymouth Port's future, councillors approve moves to balance the budget unanimously.

They backed a 1.9 per cent increase in the borough council's share of the council tax. The borough council is expected to have £9 million less to run its services with by 2020 than it had in 2010.

Cllr Colin Huckle, borough council Finance and Assets Brief Holder, said: “We are facing a very difficult financial situation due to funding cuts and rising costs.

"Times are tough, but we are taking action by working in partnership to reduce costs. We are also transforming services, so they are not only more efficient, but also more customer focused and easier to access online.”

The borough council keeps about 16 per cent of the bill. The rest is made up of charges from Dorset County Council, Dorset Fire and Rescue, Dorset Police and town and parish councils.

Councillors have also voted to enter a new Collaboration Agreement with West Dorset District Council and North Dorset District Council.

The agreement is in response to the formation of the tri-council partnership. Matt Prosser, who is currently Chief Executive of Weymouth & Portland Borough Council and West Dorset District Council, will now also be available to North Dorset District Council.

It is hoped £6 million worth of savings will be made across the partnership by 2020 as a result of the agreement.

All three councils will share a single workforce but will remain independent.

Councillor Mike Byatt, Chairman of the borough council’s Management Committee, said: “The challenges facing local government mean we need to change and adopt new ways of working.

"Partnership working as well as an effective medium term financial plan and the evolving Weymouth Town Centre Masterplan will help us achieve our goals and deliver economic growth and increased well being for residents.”