Public accessibility
Accessibility has been a key consideration through all stages of the design process, with pedestrian safety at the heart of the proposals.
The terminal will be inclusive of all passengers’ needs, including for those with visual and hearing impairments. Designated spaces for passengers who require additional assistance or that benefit from a quiet waiting area will also be provided. Customer support will be available during operational hours, with support extending to neurodiversity and passengers with temporary or permanent reduced mobility.
Externally, the terminal will include an elevated walkway, which can be accessed by a lift, to provide safe and level access between the terminal and vessels, ensuring passengers can embark and disembark safely and efficiently. Pedestrian walkways will be clearly marked across the marshalling yard to ensure the safety of passengers travelling across the yard to the terminal. In line with current operational procedures, Red Funnel staff will be present during vessels embarking and disembarking to ensure the overall safety of the site.
View of ferry terminal from drop-off
Travelling to our port on foot
Safe pedestrian walkways have been fully mapped as part of our proposals and the design of the port drop-off area is evolving to ensure that pedestrians and those with mobility issues are given priority for access to and within the terminal building. Our designs ensure that there is clear and safe separation between foot passengers and our marshalling yards.
Our plans include a zebra crossing across the southern section of Castle Street and, as part of our proposals and further to feedback from our consultation, we have been working closely with Southern Vectis to include a bus stop in our upgrades. Southern Vectis is exploring options to re-route bus services along lower York Avenue and Link Road.
Whilst we can’t guarantee this will happen, as the decision ultimately lies with Southern Vectis, the new bus stop would be large enough to accommodate two buses at peak times to deal with larger numbers of pedestrians during busy summer periods (for example Isle of Wight festival) and to support wider island connectivity.
Travelling to our port by bike
We recognise that some people prefer to travel by other modes of transport, such as by bicycle. We will be providing dedicated storage facilities adjacent to the new terminal, and we are in discussion with Island Roads about providing a new combined cycleway/footway along Castle Street. By moving ferry traffic to Well Road, this will reduce vehicle numbers in the town centre, facilitating a safer and more attractive environment for walking and cycling.