Historic 180 year-old ferry to UK seaside towns ending as 'no takers' to run it

Historic 180 year-old ferry to UK seaside towns ending as 'no takers' to run itFor nearly 200 years this ferry crossing, which slashed commuters' travel time by 30 minutes, has been operating - but after the council announced its closure, locals have been left fumingCommentsNewsNiamh Kirk Lifestyle Writer12:24, 13 Apr 2026Updated 12:29, 13 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesThe crossing has been running for nearly 200 years(Image: James Maloney/Lancs Live)A vital ferry that connected two Lancashire towns since the 1840s is set to vanish.‌The Fleetwood to Knott End ferry, a staple of local life for nearly two centuries, will no longer run after April 15 after Wyre Council failed to find a "financially viable" way to keep the boat afloat.‌Wyre Council announced it will end when the contract expires - creating a logistical nightmare for those who use it every day.‌The service carries up to 35 people per crossing, and cuts a 35 minute journey of 11 miles to just 10 minutes - perfect for commuters. But despite campaigners hoping to save the crossing and arguing it is a "vital service" and a "solid piece of heritage" the crossing will no longer run.Officials have said they are working with Lancashire County Council, to try to "secure the long-term future of the ferry" but there is currently no "financially viable and deliverable proposal that would allow the service to continue beyond the current contract".READ MORE: Petrol prices in your area mapped as Iran war sparks HUGE rise in forecourt costView 2 ImagesThe historic ferry will cease operations this week(Image: James Maloney/Lancs Live)‌The statement said: "Wyre Council has today confirmed that the Fleetwood–Knott End ferry service is due to end on 15 April 2026. The Council remains in discussion with the current operator, Wyre Marine Services, regarding the future of the service."Over the past 18 months, the Council, working closely with Lancashire County C...