News of the delays on the Landing Stage work has finally broken in the local Press:
Maiden voyage pushed back due to delays on Llandudno Pier workPublished date: 10 April 2013
Published by: Mike Williams PLANS to offer pleasure cruises off Llandudno have hit trouble.
The maiden voyage of the Waverley steam ship, planned for next month, has been pushed back after delays to work allowing landings at Llandudno Pier.
A Conwy Council spokesperson did not give details as to why work has been held off but said: “Work to repair the landing stage has been delayed, but we are hoping to move the project forward as soon as possible.”
Llandudno mayor Cllr Myra Wigzell was disappointed with the delay to what she claimed would be “massive” for the town.
She said: “This is a bit of a blow.
“The cruises are going to be massive for the town, and I really hope they are running in time for the season.
“Hopefully they can get a move on with the work and get it done soon so the town can start reaping the benefits.”
The ship is reliant on a set of fenders on the pier when it comes to dock.
The fenders are due to be renovated using funds from RWE npower renewables, Conwy Council, Llandudno Town Council and Six Piers Limited.
The ship’s operator, Waverley Excursion, planned to launch the first Waverley cruise from the pier on Friday, May 31.
It would have marked the first time a steam ship has docked in Llandudno in seven years.
A cruise was also planned for Sunday, June 2, running trips along the North Wales coast.
Waverley Excursions Chief Executive, Kathleen O’Neill, said: “We are thrilled that the work is going to happen and that we’ll be coming back to Llandudno.
“I’m confident it will happen, and I think we have everybody on side.
“The Council and community seem keen to get this project going.”
Tickets purchased for the originally planned trip should be renewed for the new date.
Refunds will be given if plans fall through.
Ms O’Neill added: “We’re in contact with the council now and we’ll hopefully be able to confirm a new date for the launch soon.”
http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/121583/maiden-voyage-pushed-back-due-to-delays-on-llandudno-pier-work.aspx