We would like to provide an update on the delivery of the temporary pontoon and the associated changes to local access and ferry services.
The original barge scheduled, which is essential to enable the delivery of the temporary and new pontoon works, was due to depart from Cork, Ireland, however, adverse weather conditions in the Irish Sea required a change of plan. TMS has since secured an alternative barge, which departed from the Medway Estuary on Monday 23rd February, when a suitable weather window became available.
 
The current plan is for the barge to travel to Southampton, where it will await the next safe weather window before continuing its journey to Plymouth. We are hopeful that it will arrive over the weekend.
 
Access & Service Updates
 
Mount Batten Main (Eastern) Slipway Closure
The slipway will be closed to all users, including vehicles and launching, from 9 March to 18 March (updated from the original 26 Feb to 6 March dates).
 
Mount Batten Ferry Service
Due to installation works for the temporary pontoon, the Mount Batten Ferry service will pause from 23 February to 4 March.
At this point we hope that these dates will be unchanged, however a further update will be issued on Monday if the pause is to be extended.
 
We thank all users and residents for their patience as this essential work progresses. Work to transform one of Plymouth’s most recognisable waterfront facilities reaches a major milestone this month, as construction begins on the new Mount Batten Pontoon, part of the ongoing upgrade of the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre.

National Marine Park.”

For ongoing updates and timings of potential disruptions please visit the Mount Batten Centre redevelopment website page https://mount-batten-centre.com/redevelopment-works  or visit the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park social media channels.

FAQs

What work is taking place at Mount Batten?

Plymouth City Council and partners are beginning construction of a new, state-of-the-art pontoon. This upgrade is part of wider improvements to the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre and forms a key element of the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park transformation programme.

Why is the pontoon being replaced?

The previous pontoon had reached the end of its useful life. The new structure will:

  • Secure the long-term future of the Mount Batten Ferry
  • Improve access to water‑based activities delivered by the Mount Batten Centre and its Affiliates and Clubs.
  • Provide safer, more resilient and fully accessible facilities
  • Support income generation through new commercial berths

When will the slipway be closed?

The Mount Batten Main (Eastern) Slipway will be closed to all users for a few days between 9 March and 18 March to allow the installation of a temporary pontoon.

The Mount Batten Northern (Western) Slipway will be closed to all vehicular traffic for the full durations of the works.  It will remain open for launching of crafts by hand for the majority of time, however there may be short periods where this isn’t possible and this will be managed with signage on site.

Will the Mount Batten Ferry be running?

The ferry service will pause from 23 February to 4 March while the temporary pontoon is installed.
Once in place, the ferry will resume normal operations between the Barbican and Mount Batten.

Could these dates change?

Yes. While the project team is confident the works will be completed on schedule, bad weather or safety considerations may require dates to change.

How long will the project take to complete?

The new pontoon is expected to be fully completed by late summer 2026.

How much is being invested in the new pontoon?

A total of £4.2 million is being invested to repair essential infrastructure, create commercial berths and build a modern, accessible pontoon.

Who is funding the project?

The project is funded by:

  • The National Lottery Heritage Fund
  • UK Government
  • Plymouth City Council

How does this project support the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park?

The pontoon upgrade will:

  • Improve access to the water for residents and visitors
  • Support sustainable travel across the Sound
  • Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities
  • Celebrate Plymouth’s maritime heritage
    It forms part of the wider £22 million National Marine Park transformation programme.

What other improvements are happening at the Mount Batten Centre?

On land upgrades include:

  • A redesigned and more welcoming reception area
  • A new ground floor bistro with waterfront views‑floor bistro with waterfront views
  • Improved changing facilities meeting Sport England and Changing Places standards