Woolwich Ferry - Future of The Service

Future of The Service

The ferry service currently exists because it provides an alternative river crossing for vehicles (especially lorries). As long as there is a demand for a vehicle ferry it is unlikely to be discontinued and in any case would require an Act of Parliament to do so.

In 2004 planning applications were submitted for a new bridge, the Thames Gateway Bridge, close to the location of the Woolwich Ferry. However the project was cancelled in November 2008. If the bridge were to be built then it is likely that the ferry service would be withdrawn as it would no longer be required. A consultation is due to report in 2012 about the possibility of instigating a ferry service from nearby Gallion's Reach, north of the Thames at Beckton, to Thamesmead in south east London, which may replace the Woolwich Ferry.