The Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Council has confirmed to East Cowes Town Council that the Floating Bridge will return within the next fortnight.

In a letter, he said "I am advised that the vessel is expected to be back in service in the week commencing 28 of September."

"Therefore, school children will not need to use the launch regularly during the winter months, as part of their journey to and from school."

Scroll down for a link to read the letter in full...

The Isle of Wight Council is currently paying for two launches to cover the morning rush hour, as the alternative service is running with reduced capacity due to coronavirus.

Read more: Second launch for morning school run - floating bridge still broken 

The multi-million pounds chain ferry has been off since late July, when it underwent routine maintenance. Its return was delayed at the last minute, after problems were detected with its hydraulics. 

In the letter, John Metcalfe said the local authority shares the frustrations of East Cowes Town Council about the "failure of the vessel to provide a reliable service between the communities of Cowes and East Cowes." 

A legal process is now underway and discussions are ongoing between the council and the two companies contracted to design and build the floating bridge. 

Mr Metcalfe wrote: "I am sorry that, working with the designer and manufacturer of the floating bridge, the council has not yet been able to resolve the challenges it has given to the council and the community and that it is still not yet providing the reliable service everyone desires.

"The council continues to work to that end, making full use of the provisions within the contracts with these companies to achieve this goal."

Read more: Floating Bridge could be back by end of the month say Isle of Wight Council

Read the letter in full HERE.