Concerns have been raised that the new Liverpool landing stage will not be ready in time.

The passenger watchdog TravelWatch has released a statement in which it states its ’concern’ at the tight timescale available to ensure the new Princes Half-Tide Dock is operational when the current landing stage deal expires at the end of next year.

The watchdog’s concerns stem from a lack of information regarding contingencies for any delays to the planning application process and what could happen if there are objections to the plans, given the need for the new terminal to be completed by spring 2020.

A TravelWatch spokesman said: ’There has been a conspicuous lack of official detail, with the public having to rely on the layout plan issued by TravelWatch.

’This is a very challenging timescale for such a complex infrastructure project.

’Especially important for passengers is reassurance that the Liverpool service will continue without interruption.

’What are the Department of Infrastructure’s contingency plans to maintain the service if there are delays to the new terminal?’ he asked.

The plans include a terminal complex and outlines the route that will need to be constructed for road and walking access, including a new footbridge linked with Princes Parade road.

The TravelWatch statement added it ’would be surprising’ if there were no delays during construction, particularly on a brownfield site on the banks of the River Mersey, which could be contaminated land.

It queried whether the new dock would be able to maintain water depth during all states of the tide without dredging being required. It also asked whether costs may have risen and if there was a maximum cost estimate - and, in the event of that being reached, whether the plan should be reviewed.

However, the watchdog has applauded the DoI’s plans to make planning application details available to the public before submitting them to Liverpool planners and the department’s commitment to an adequate bus service for foot passengers.

Placing further strain on the tight timescale for building the new ferry terminal is the matter of ownership.

In March, Isle of Man Newspapers reported that, while Tynwald had approved spending of up to £3.5m in July 2016 to buy a site for the new ferry terminal, the purchase has still yet to be completed as the money has yet to be formally requested by the DoI.

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan confirmed the situation remains the same.

The area also sits within the stretch along the waterfront from Albert Dock, through Pier Head and up to Stanley Dock, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This could add extra delays to planning.

A spokesman for the DoI responded to the claims, saying: ’The Department of Infrastructure continues its work to develop the landing site in Liverpool and an update will be provided later in the year.’

TravelWatch has also questioned how the new board would be assembled for the now state-owned Steam Packet, stating its case for Tynwald to establish an official user body to work with and assist the Steam Packet.

The TravelWatch spokesman said: ’With representation from freight users, business organisations, and passenger representatives such as TravelWatch, their wide knowledge and experience as customers of modern ferry operations would be extremely beneficial to the regulating body. The alternative of "carry on as usual" would be a major disappointment for ferry users.’