Wightlink Portsmouth-Fishbourne ferry terminal plans submitted

The new Fishbourne terminal design will include new boarding ramps

A ferry operator has submitted planning applications to improve its terminals ahead of a new cross-Solent car and passenger ferry.

Wightlink Ferries wants to add new ramps to speed up boarding times at the Portsmouth Gunwharf and Fishbourne ports.

The new flagship would come into service in 2017 as part of a £45m investment.

It will carry 178 vehicles and more than 1,000 people on each crossing.

A Wightlink spokeswoman said the investment aimed to "increase vessel capacity and reliability of the service and cut congestion for passengers".

Isle of Wight Council and Portsmouth City Council will hold consultations about the proposals, with a decision expected in early 2016.

Wightlink Ferries wants to cut congestion at Portsmouth Gunwharf