'We look forward to welcoming passengers back': Popular Leeds Dock Water Taxi service returns this bank holiday

The popular Leeds Dock Water Taxi service will relaunch this bank holiday Monday after months of uncertainty over its future.

The service, which runs between Leeds Dock and Granary Wharf, will be owned and operated by Department, part of the Allied London group.

It comes after the long-running service was brought to a halt last year when the company operating it, Leaseco 23 Ltd, went into administration. Leaseco 23 Ltd, formerly Leeds Dock Limited, was also part of the Allied London group.

Earlier this year, skipper Colin Longden launched a bid to purchase the service and transform it into a community-run co-operative. However, a competing offer from the Leeds Dock developers resulted in the business returning to its original owners.

At the time, he claimed skippers had raised concerns about pay, maintenance and fares, and said families and low-income passengers struggled with the flat fare of £3 per person, per journey.

Under his proposal, the co-operative would have explored a more flexible fare structure, alongside a fund allowing better-off passengers to contribute towards free or discounted trips for those unable to afford travel.

The service, which has been operating this week during UKREiiF, will relaunch to the public on Monday, May 25, with a week of free rides. From June 1, journeys will cost £3.50 per person, up from £3.

Alex Webb, of Department, said: “From next week, we are proposing a modest increase to £3.50 per person, with under-5s remaining free. For a family of four, this amounts to an additional £2 per single trip.

“This reflects rising costs across the board - including the national minimum wage, higher diesel prices, and increased charges from Canal & River Trust - none of which are unique to us.

“We're proud to be relaunching the service and look forward to welcoming passengers back on the water from Monday.”