At our latest Champions’ meeting, one thing was clear: the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry crossing is so much more than a transport link.
It’s a long-term asset for our town, the wider Sussex community and our relationship with France.
The conversation was shaped by the Economic and Social Impact Study into the ferry service, with thanks to David Howells, Bruce Nairne and Scott Marshall for their excellent work in bringing together the evidence and insight that underpinned the discussion.
We are also grateful to Rampion for hosting the meeting in its boardroom, a fitting setting for a conversation about Newhaven’s role as an international gateway.
Bruce opened the meeting by sharing a childhood memory of travelling to Dieppe by ferry on a day trip with his brother.
Still young enough to be sent off with his mother’s telephone number tucked into his pocket, it was an early taste of independence made possible by the ferry.
A reminder of how the route has been a part of Newhaven’s identity for generations, shaping how people travel, work and connect across the Channel.
While the ferry is steeped in history, it plays an increasingly important role in Newhaven’s future. Supporting jobs, attracting visitors and strengthening links with Europe.
What the research shows
Bruce went on to lead the presentation of the Ferry Economic and Social Impact Study, sharing clear evidence of the scale and resilience of the Newhaven–Dieppe route.
While many short sea crossings have struggled to recover, the Newhaven–Dieppe service has continued to attract passengers.
In 2024, more than 386,000 passengers have travelled via Newhaven, making it one of the few UK short-sea routes to see sustained growth.
The ferry generates around £13.45 million in net economic benefit for Newhaven each year, supporting jobs and spend across the local economy.
The research also highlighted the ferry’s wider strategic value. Alongside Gatwick Airport and Shoreham Port, the route plays an important role in connecting Sussex to Europe, supporting both leisure and trade. With some services operating below full capacity, there is clear potential for future growth.
The ferry experience
Beyond the headline figures, the discussion focused on what the ferry experience feels like for passengers and what would encourage visitors to spend more time in Newhaven.
Ideas from the room included more camper friendly parking, good value accommodation linked to ferry travel and more flexible sailing times.
There was a strong emphasis on better promotion on what there is to see and do locally, helping visitors see Newhaven as more than just a point of arrival or departure.
Improving the arrival experience was a recurring theme. Better urban designs for cyclists and pedestrians, clearer wayfinding and a more welcoming town centre were all seen as practical ways to strengthen first impressions and support longer stays.
Trade, travel and connection
The discussion looked beyond tourism to the ferry’s wider strategic role. There is a clear opportunity to raise awareness of the route for freight and business use.
For freight drivers the crossing allows vehicles to move whilst drivers rest during the journey, supporting efficiency and driver wellbeing.
Strengthening partnerships was seen as essential. Joint marketing with our French partners, learning from other ports such as Fishguard and building on improving relationships with Dieppe were all discussed as ways to maximise the ferry’s potential.
Looking ahead
As the meeting drew to a close, the focus returned to what this means for Newhaven.
Investment in the town is beginning to show results and the ferry remains a key part of that story.
For us, the priority is making sure the ferry’s future is considered alongside wider town centre work and regeneration activity. As a transport link, as well as a driver of place, perception and long-term opportunity.
With strong collaboration on both sides of the channel, we’re looking forward to building on this momentum and taking the next step forward.
Click here to read the report on the value of the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry.
