COUNCIL chiefs have launched an attempt to help secure the future of a vital transport link used by 400,000 passengers a year.

Hampshire County Council wants the busy Hythe to Southampton ferry service to be provided with a new berthing area at Town Quay.

The service is having to use the Red Funnel terminal while maintenance checks are carried out on the pontoon where the boats normally dock.

White Horse Ferries, which operates the Hythe to Southampton route, says it is difficult for two ferry companies to use the same part of Town Quay. However, the firm fears similar arrangements will have to be made in the future if the ageing pontoon is subject to any additional closures.

White Horse bosses are hoping the company will be provided with another pontoon in Town Quay.

On Tuesday, the county council's executive member for environment Mel Kendal agreed that the authority should approach ABP Property Investments, which owns Town Quay, and attempt to secure the necessary agreement. Red Funnel will also be involved in the talks. If the scheme goes ahead, White Horse will not be hit by any future closures of its current facility, known as a wavebreak.

Director Richard Lay said: "The wavebreak is nearly 20 years old and repairs will have to be carried out in the future. However, we can't really co-exist with Red Funnel.

"Any option can be considered, but the best solution would involve a new pontoon on the other side of the Red Funnel area. Ideally we'd like to own a new facility."

An ABP spokesman said: "We are in discussion with the county council about berthing arrangements at Town Quay."