Study to be held over city hover link up
A NEW hover travel service between Portsmouth and Southampton is a step closer to becoming a reality.
Councillors have been in discussion with Hovertravel about a service that could also see a stop off at Daedalus.
A spokesperson for Hovertravel said: ‘There has been the formulation of a feasibility study group which will meet in October to discuss with the local councils how to fully explore the potential of this opportunity.
‘Hovertravel is not yet in a position to confirm any trial.’
Leader of Fareham Borough Council Sean Woodward and Portsmouth City Council leader Donna Jones have been involved in the talks.
Cllr Woodward said: ‘It came about with a meeting with the Solent LEP 18 months or so ago when Hovertravel was getting new hovercrafts in.
‘Donna Jones and I were talking about the most under-used piece of infrastructure between us, which is the Solent.
Cllr Woodward added: ‘Many people are travelling into the area to work at Solent Airfield and a water service would help ease traffic.’
Cllr Jones said: ‘In the UK we don’t use the water enough and as a waterfront city we should.
‘We have to make sure the journey time between Portsmouth and Southampton is as quick as possible.
‘We are working closely with Hovertravel as I want people moved off the roads.’