Poole MP Neil Duncan-Jordan has expressed his disappointment after Brittany Ferries announced it will cease operating from Poole in October, saying the company should have consulted local representatives before making such a significant decision.
The withdrawal of the long-established ferry service has prompted concerns over the future of jobs, tourism and the wider economic impact on the town. Residents are also questioning what the loss of an international ferry route will mean for Poole’s future as a thriving port and visitor destination.
Responding to the announcement, Mr Duncan-Jordan said he was “disappointed” that Brittany Ferries had not contacted him before making the decision public.
“Residents will be concerned to hear the news that Brittany Ferries are pulling out of Poole in October,” he said. “This raises understandable questions around redundancies, the impact on tourism and the offer that the town can make to those of us who live here.”
The MP believes businesses have a responsibility to engage with the communities they serve, particularly when making decisions that could have far-reaching consequences.
“I have written to the company and was disappointed that they didn’t contact me before making their announcement,” he said. “Businesses are part of our town and need to see themselves in that way, rather than separate entities that have no social responsibilities.”
The closure of the Poole route is expected to affect not only ferry staff but also local businesses that benefit from passengers travelling through the port, including hotels, restaurants, shops and tourism operators.
Mr Duncan-Jordan has also contacted the Government in an effort to explore what support may be available.
“I have written to the minister to see what can be done and will be meeting Poole Harbour Commissioners to discuss what we can do together to address these concerns,” he said.
The MP added that he intends to keep residents informed as discussions progress and as more information becomes available regarding the future of the port.
“I’ll let residents know what happens,” he said.
The announcement marks the end of Brittany Ferries’ operations from Poole and represents a significant change for one of the town’s key transport links. As uncertainty remains over the future use of the port facilities, local leaders are expected to continue discussions with stakeholders in the coming weeks to explore opportunities to protect jobs, attract new investment and safeguard Poole’s maritime future.
Is this another example of how little regard big business has for the public?
