CONDOR’S fast ferry has proved a real boost to Poole and the port is keen to keep its bonus sailings.

The Channel Islands and St Malo services moved along the coast from Weymouth in February when cracks appeared in the harbour walls.

And Poole Harbour Commissioners chief executive Jim Stewart is holding discussions with the ferry company about future operations from the port.

“Compared with last year, Poole Condor outboard sailings have doubled to 242 and passenger numbers have increased from 74,000 to 190,000 resulting in increased revenue to the port and a boost to the local economy,” said Mr Stewart.

However the race is on to fix the ferry berth at Weymouth ready for the start of Condor Ferries 2013 summer sailing season next March.

A major engineering project worth £1.75million is needed to mend the berth, tenders have been sought and a contractor is due to be appointed by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council on October 2 with work due to start soon after.

Condor has said it wants to return to Weymouth next year, once the work on the wall has been complet¬ ed and the town is keen to have back the port’s biggest customer, which pumps an estimated £7million a year in to the local economy.

“Poole Harbour Commissioners were very happy to assist Condor Ferries after the problems at Weymouth, enabling the company to immediately transfer their Weymouth operation to Poole,” said Mr Stewart.

“Condor have publicly made it clear that they have been delighted with the facilities and service levels provided by Poole Harbour Commissioners, and while we would welcome continued exclusivity of their fast craft operations here in Poole, we do of course recognise that Condor have the option of returning to Weymouth once the quay has been repaired.”

He added: “We have held discussions with Condor about future operations in Poole, however no decisions have yet been reached and it is likely that these talks will continue.”