LoSRA has always been an active supporter of the Sunbury Ferry Community Project and with this season just finished it’s a good time to reflect on a fantastic example of what’s achievable when like-minded individuals, organisations and the local council work together for the good of the community.
With the support of Spelthorne Borough Council, the project was initiated by LoSRA Committee Member Neil Huntingford and another local resident, Simon Harris. Working remotely throughout the Pandemic their aim was to launch the ferry service during the summer of 2021.
With a kickstart grant from Spelthorne Borough Council, a new pontoon style ferry boat was designed, built and delivered in late June 2021. Working to a ‘green’ agenda, the ferry was equipped with an electric outboard motor powered by two massive batteries weighing 93 kilos each!
Two new landing stages were built on either side of the river downstream of Sunbury Lock and an appeal for volunteers, through the sup-port of Sunbury Matters, had a stream of locals queuing up to take part in the project.
Launched in July 2021, the ferry was an immediate success and carried nearly 7,000 adults, children, bikes, pushchairs and dogs across the river in its first 25 days of operation!
Now in its third season, the ferry has 40 trained volunteers, with 30 of those now holding an international qualification in boat handling. Running at weekends and Bank Holidays from Easter to Oc-tober, the service has also run free evening trips for local Guide and Scout groups. With many locals regu-larly using the fer-ry, this year saw the introduction of loyalty cards that are proving very popular.
Official recognition of the project came, when out of over 300 entries, Sunbury Ferry won the prestigious ‘Best Business in Spelthorne’ award as well as ‘Best Sustainable Business’ and ‘Best Corporate Responsibility Business’ awards. Not bad for a group of local volunteers!
Developments planned for next year include river trips to Hampton Flower Show and mid-week private hire.
We may not have achieved our footbridge across the river yet, but in the meantime we certainly have a ferry service to be proud of!
sunburyferry.co.uk