PLANS for a high-speed ferry service from Weymouth to France have been delayed by a year, it has been announced.

HighSpeedFerries is now working towards a January/February 2017 start for its Western Channel service.

Under original plans, the ferry was due to start sailing this spring. But it emerged in December negotiations were indicating a 'delayed introduction while further financial backing is sought'.

HighSpeedFerries director Jonathan Packer said: “Starting in early 2017 will give us time to secure the best fast ferry and to develop the necessary port facilities to meet our scheduling requirements.

"This includes the facilities needed to meet the new immigration and customs requirements at Weymouth. It also meets our investors’ wish for a slower start-up than originally envisaged.

“Recent, positive meetings with the Port of Cherbourg and senior officers from Weymouth & Portland Borough Council have demonstrated their continued support. We are working together on preparations for the service.”

If all goes to plan, HighSpeedFerries will start with a limited winter service before increasing to two round trips each day through the April to October 2017 summer season.

“Our aim is to give an unbeatable direct service on crossing times and frequency for our wider Western Region target market and provide a real alternative to the long road route via Dover,” added Mr Packer.

Keith Howorth, Weymouth Harbour Master, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “While these negotiations are ongoing, the council is managing its costs in the harbour through a combination of income received to date from High Speed Ferries and reducing other expenditure.”