A WIRRAL MP was hoping for new Mersey Ferries but believes the refurbishment plans still promise a bright future.

Mick Whitley's comments come after Merseytravel vowed to revamp its existing ferry fleet in order to keep cross-river services running.

Although plans for the building of two new ferries had to be shelved – largely because of cost – Mr Whitley, who represents Birkenhead, has been assured that the refurbishment planned will not be a quick paint job.

He said: "I have been assured by Merseytravel that the refurbishment will be a proper overhaul.

"While the ships – and their wonderful heritage vale – will be preserved they are getting a stern to bow make over with modern clean and green engines.

"They will offer a comfortable transport service and an attractive leisure option.”

There is no decision on who will get the contract for the transformation of the ferries into new model boats, but Mick hopes that the work can go to local labour.

He added: "I fully understand that Merseytravel and the Liverpool City Region have to ensure that the contract for the refurbishment and future maintenance of the ferries has to meet value for money criteria and their decision will go through due process to ensure this.

"But make no mistake I will be batting for Birkenhead.

"With Cammell Laird’s proud tradition of shipbuilding my town and the workers in it have the skills to deliver this work to the highest quality.

"A contract like this offers longevity for the yard with the possibility of secure jobs, apprenticeships and a positive future for the yard.

"I will be campaigning to make sure that all parties are aware of this and make the right call.”

Plans to replace the ageing Mersey ferries, which are more than six decades old, have been put forward in recent years.

An earlier attempt was stopped amid fallout from Brexit. The current process has been halted after bids received "were not financially viable".

A Merseytravel spokeswoman said: "Our existing ferries are almost 60 years old and in need of a revamp.

"Our intentions are to breathe new life into our existing fleet, helping to secure their future for the next decade and beyond.

"While we are obviously disappointed to have taken the difficult decision to end the current procurement process to an end following the latest round of bidding,  we are making sure that they will still be around for future generations to enjoy.

"The procurement process was paused in autumn 2019, as the bids received were higher than the funding available and in view of the high level of uncertainty surrounding Brexit."

Merseytravel yesterday announced the return of its River Explorer cruises from May 17.

The spokeswoman said: "We would like to thank our suppliers for their interest and for working with us throughout the process.

"We are disappointed that the final solution bids were much higher than expected because of extraneous factors.

"The commissioned works at Seacombe Terminal and investment in the Eureka Mersey! project are continuing as planned, and along with plans for the significant refurbishment of the classic fleet, demonstrate our commitment to the long-term future of Mersey Ferries.

"We know for many, refurbishing the existing vessels, which form such great memories for the people of our region, will be seen as welcome news."