Corrosion on the pontoon and supports used by the Hythe ferry is worse than initially thought.

The pontoon at the end of Hythe Pier was found damaged on August 22, before further damaged prompted the indefinite suspension of the ferry.

No ferries between Hythe and Southampton will run for at least the next two weeks while quotes are gathered for repairs, the company that runs the service said.

The Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company said that a more in-depth assessment of the pontoon and support structure shows that the corrosion accelerated at a faster rate than initial surveys suggested.

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A spokesperson continued: “We have reached out to external contractors to understand the financial investment required to bring the Hythe Ferry back into service safely.

“This is a significant piece of work so it is important we take the time to review all quotes thoroughly.

“As such, the service will be suspended for a further two weeks for this to take place. As soon as this process is complete, we will provide you with a further update.”

Repair works to the damaged pontoon would take in the region of 4-6 weeks to complete.

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The spokesperson continued: “In the meantime, we have and continue to explore alternative options to operate the service.

“We have not yet found a financially sustainable solution that ensures safety and accessibility requirements are met but, will continue to review other solutions over the coming weeks.

“We understand this is a particularly challenging time for you and sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this is causing.”

Sath Naidoo, operations manager of The Hythe and Southampton Ferry company said: “Our top priority is the safety of our colleagues and customers.

“As a result, we must extend the service suspension for an additional two weeks while the financial assessments of the necessary work on the pontoon and supporting structure are completed and reviewed.

"We will then be able to provide customers with a further update. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this is causing to our valued customers.”

Residents have previously spoken of their worries that the "integral" service would be scrapped for good.

Jos Knight, a Hythe resident who uses the ferry, is keen for it to remain once the repairs are completed.

She said: “Hythe Ferry and the train are an integral part of Hythe and the surrounding area, and it is always an exciting little trip for visiting families.

“I hope they manage to get the pontoon fixed."