UK: Despite a High Court ruling that Wightlink's introduction of larger vessels was unlawful due to its breach of the European Habitats Directive, the company's three new boats on the Lyminton to Yarmouth route will continue sailing.
The Lymington River Association (LRA) had alleged that the larger W-class ferries created a greater wash and were damaging the Lymington River's protected mudflats and salt marshes, which are rich in bird and marine life, the BBC reported.
The LRA challenged Wightlink after it replaced its 35-year-old fleet with new ones.
Justice Owen in London ruled that Wightlink had failed to comply with its duties under the directive but also ruled that the ferries would continue to operate, subject to new measures.
"The breach was not intentional and, at the time of the decision, Wightlink believed it was acting fully in accordance with the applicable law," said a statement released by Wightlink.
"Wightlink notes the judgment, and will consider what steps it will be required to take in its role as competent authority to address this issue.
"Wightlink's new ferries continue to navigate the Lymington River and the historically low levels of marine risk on the river have not been eroded by the introduction of the W class ferries."
The company said that it had caused no damage to the river and that it would wait for advice from Natural England before deciding on a new course of appropriate measures.
