Managed services and security solutions provider Westminster Group PLC (LON:WSG) said its keenly anticipated ferry service in Sierra Leone should launch next month.
The flagship vessel, the Sierra Queen, underwent repairs to a propeller shaft at the end of last year but all appears now to be ship-shape and Bristol fashion, as it has performed well in sea trials that involved various trial crossings and manoeuvres.
On land, works on the Targrin Ferry Terminal have been completed and the terminal is fully operational, Westminster said.
The government contractors have yet to complete works on the provision of new jetties at the main Government wharf terminal, but an alternative landing point adjacent to the terminal has been secured and cleared in order to provide a temporary landing stage that will fit the bill until the new jetties are in place.
Westminster added that brand new 50-seater coaches that will be used to transport passengers between the airport and the ferry terminal are ready for deployment, and comprehensive training of the crew has taken place.
Westminster said it is expected that operations and revenues from ticket sales will start in April, subject to the final sign-off by the authorities.
"The delays we have suffered in commencing this much needed and long awaited service have been a frustration for our customers, shareholders and ourselves alike but I am delighted that we are now, at last, approaching commencement of operations and I would like to commend the dedication and efforts of all our staff involved in dealing with and overcoming the numerous in-country challenges we have experienced, most of which have unfortunately been beyond our control," said Peter Fowler, chief executive officer of Westminster.
"Notwithstanding the above we remain confident that once the service is up and running it will be in high demand and prove to be a good long term investment and great success," Fowler added.