Poole Harbour Commissioners   has welcomed news that Brittany Ferries will run daily passenger and freight between Poole and Cherbourg this winter.

The route will be served by Commodore Clipper, supporting freight and ferry passenger traffic in a period when the route would normally be closed.

PHC said the move underlined the strength of relationship between Brittany Ferries and the Port of Poole. It reflected a “shared ambition” to support resilient links between the UK and France all year round.

Barfleur will return to Poole from 29 March, when Commodore Clipper will stand down.

Captain Brian Murphy, CEO of Poole Harbour Commissioners, said: “We welcome Brittany Ferries’ continued investment in the Poole–Cherbourg route this winter. The Port of Poole remains committed to supporting reliable, year-round cross-Channel connectivity and a thriving regional economy in partnership with Brittany Ferries.”

Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries, added: “We have served Poole for nearly 50 years, connecting the towering Napoleonic sea defences in Cherbourg with perhaps the world’s most beautiful natural harbour. Like the towering sentinels of Old Harry Rocks that welcome visitors, our relationship built on foundations that endure. As such, I can today confirm that Poole will be the UK hub for our new rail-ferry freight service connecting Bayonne with Cherbourg by rail.”

Cherbourg with Poole by ferry. The first trailers will arrive this month.”