THE end is almost in sight for commuters, holidaymakers, day-trippers and businesses with the Sandbanks Ferry due to reopen after two months of major work.

The vessel normally departs for around two weeks for a refurbishment every two years in Southampton, but this time repairs to both slipways have meant that the service was taken out for eight weeks.

It has left drivers heading for Studland and Swanage with no option but to plough down the notoriously congested A351.

The closure has hit Studland hardest, with businesses saying their trade was hugely down during the extended closure.

But the end is now in sight.

By yesterday (November 19), the chains had been relaid across the harbour entrance and the ferry was ready to be towed back into position.

Ferry general manager, Neil McCheyne, said there would then need to be a day of sea trials to make sure all systems were operating properly. He told the Daily Echo earlier this week: “The ferry is back in Poole Harbour, so we don’t have to wait for a weather window for the ferry.”

Mr McCheyne added that it was hoped the service would be able to resume tomorrow (November 21), as long as the weather remained kind, which it was forecast to do.

Swanage Chamber of Trade is launching a campaign, supported by the Daily Echo and Swanage and Wareham Advertiser, to welcome shoppers ahead of Christmas.

Chamber secretary Bob McGhee said: “The traders are winding up ready for Christmas, so we’re hopeful that the ferry will bring in more visitors from Bournemouth, Poole and the surrounding areas.

“For many of our traders Christmas is going to be an interesting time.”

For the confirmed reopening date and time, visit sandbanksferry.co.uk or call 01929 450203.