WORK has now begun refitting the Sandbanks chain ferry. 

The ferry, named Bramble Bush, came into service in January 1994, and is the fourth ferry to operate this service since the Bournemouth-Swanage Motor Road and Ferry Company came into being. 

It was towed to Poole Harbour on November 5 where work started for the refit anticipated to take two-week. 

Bosses believe the ferry should return to action on Wednesday, November 20 - although this is subject to change should the weather not work in their favour. 

(Image: Mike Millard)

Morebus' Purbeck Breezer routes will also be affected, with its 50 route being split into 50X and 51 to avoid the crossing. 

During the last refit in November 2022, the ferry was damaged while being towed to Falmouth. 

Its prow arms were severely bent which one boat expert described as “a major problem”. 

As a result, the service was out of action until February 2023.