Construction of first new Mersey Ferry in 60 years underway.

APCL Group facility Cammell Laird has welcomed Mayor Steve Rotheram to inspect progress on the first Mersey Ferry to be constructed in more than 60 years.

With the all-important steel cutting complete, construction is underway at Cammell Laird ensuring it remains a proud part of Liverpool City Region’s visitor attractions.

The hull is beginning to take shape thanks to more than 90,000 metres of welding, and a total of 327 tonnes of steel, the majority of which will be used for the frame, creating the backbone of the impressive vessel.

From platers to welders, 25 apprentices are investing a total of 17,000 hours on the history-making project and are embracing the unique opportunity to be a part of the Mersey Ferries legacy.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region and Cabinet Member for Transport of Liverpool City Region Combined Authority said, “The world-famous Mersey Ferries has been a visitor attraction for more than 100 years. And today we begin its next chapter.

“The Mersey Ferry is a staple of our heritage and, over its 800-year history has served millions of people, all of which can remember the first time they hopped aboard and what it felt like to be part of its vast history. We want future generations to experience that same feeling, that’s why Liverpool City Region Combined Authority is investing in a new boat and has developed a 20-year strategy to keep the Mersey Ferries on the water for years to come."

David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group added: “Cammell Laird has a long history of supporting Mersey Ferries, our facility has built 15 of the vessels, dating back to 1836, as well as helping to maintain the current fleet.

“This new project will be built by apprentices supported and working alongside our highly- experienced teams to create a state-of-the-art vessel that we will all be able to enjoy for decades to come.

“Cammell Laird is excited to be working with the team and to bring to life a project that has been many years in the making, which will further cement our history together. "