Newhaven–Dieppe Ferry is a strategic economic gateway between Sussex and Normandy

A new impact study establishes ferry as an important part of our economic infrastructure.

A newly published Economic and Social Impact Study has confirmed what many businesses on both sides of the Channel have long recognised: the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry is not simply a transport link, but a core piece of regional economic infrastructure connecting Sussex and Region Normandie, France.

Commissioned by Newhaven Enterprise Zone and published in January, the Value of the Newhaven–Dieppe Ferry report assesses the service’s contribution over the period 2014–2024 and examines its importance to trade, tourism, employment and long-term regional growth.

Michelle Connors, Programme Manager of the NEZ said, “The ferry is a vital asset for Newhaven and the wider Sussex economy, underpinning local employment, supporting tourism and strengthening our connections with Europe, driving trade and tourism with France and beyond. Our report shows how we can provide support by bringing key stakeholders together and delivering funding in the town which will support its future success.”

The findings are clear. The ferry generates a net economic benefit of £31.63 million annually across Sussex, supporting 495 net full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs. Within Newhaven itself, the service delivers a £13.45 million net annual benefit, sustaining 209 net FTE jobs, with a total gross contribution to the town of £14.94 million and 233 jobs.

These figures underline the ferry’s role not only as a maritime connection, but as an economic engine for the local and regional economy.

A growing route with strong recovery

In 2024 alone, the route carried:

• 386,305 passengers
• 150,673 vehicles
• 21,811 road goods vehicles (RGVs)
• 281,673 tonnes of freight

Operated by the vessels Seven Sisters and Côte d’Albâtre, the service runs approximately 1,690 crossings per year.

The report highlights strong long-term growth. Since 2013, passenger numbers have increased by 133,000 (+47.9%), while passenger vehicle numbers have risen from 83,972 in 2013 to 150,522 in 2024 (+79%). Importantly, the Newhaven–Dieppe route has outperformed many other UK short-sea ferry services in its post-pandemic recovery.

This sustained growth demonstrates both resilience and untapped potential. Current capacity utilisation sits at around 40%, indicating significant headroom for expansion in both passenger and freight markets.

Captain Dave Collins-Williams, Port Manager at Newhaven Port & Properties Ltd said, “The findings underline the ferry’s tangible economic value to Newhaven and Sussex, while reinforcing its importance to our partners in Dieppe and the Normandy region. This is a route with very deep historic ties and modern economic relevance. As a Port, we are committed to investing in infrastructure, service quality and collaboration to ensure the Newhaven–Dieppe connection continues to thrive for businesses and communities on both sides of the Channel. I strongly recommend that everyone travelling to and from France uses this route and to tell all their friends and/or business contacts of its convenience and excellent service. This report should make everyone appreciate just how important the Newhaven – Dieppe ferry service is for Newhaven, East Sussex and the greater south-east region”

Supporting trade between Sussex and Normandy

The ferry plays a critical role in cross-Channel trade. As the most direct short-sea link between London and Paris for accompanied freight, it provides a strategically positioned gateway between South East England and northern France.

For Sussex businesses, the route offers:

• Efficient access to French and wider EU markets
• A viable export corridor for manufacturers and food producers
• A competitive logistics alternative within the South Coast port network

The movement of over 281,000 tonnes of cargo in 2024 demonstrates the route’s relevance not only to local SMEs but also to established supply chains operating across the Channel.

For Normandy, the ferry strengthens commercial exchange with one of the UK’s most economically dynamic regions, reinforcing long-standing trading relationships.

Driving tourism and the visitor economy

Tourism represents a significant component of the ferry’s economic value.

With substantial passenger flows in both directions, the service supports short-break travel, cultural exchange and touring markets. It underpins spending across hospitality, retail and visitor attractions throughout East Sussex and across Seine-Maritime.

The study identifies further opportunities to enhance the arrival experience, strengthen destination promotion and encourage longer stays — ensuring that more of the ferry’s economic value is captured locally.

A core international gateway for the South Coast

The report positions the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry as part of a wider network of strategic infrastructure across the South Coast, alongside Gatwick Airport and neighbouring ports.

Its location offers:

• Direct maritime access to continental Europe
• Connectivity to London and the wider South East including the L’Avenue Verte, the major London to Paris cycle route.
• Capacity for future growth in passenger and freight markets

Importantly, the research outlines practical measures to unlock further potential, including infrastructure improvements, freight facility enhancements and long-term investment to support sustainable operations.

A shared commitment across the Channel

The strength of the route lies in its partnership. Alain Bazille, Chairman of SMPAT, said: “The determination of the Département de la Seine-Maritime to maintain this line, with the creation of the SMPAT and the Transmanche Ferries brand in 2001, highlights the importance of the route as a driver of economic development.

The study carried out by NEZ confirms the importance of this line and also supports the intention to strengthen partnerships between the various stakeholders.

The growth identified by the study between 2013 and 2024, with an increase of more than 47.9% in passenger numbers, reinforces the route’s potential.”

This shared commitment between Sussex and Seine-Maritime reflects the ferry’s long-standing role as a practical, functioning economic bridge between two regions with deep commercial and cultural ties.

Looking ahead

Over the ten-year period examined (2014–2024), the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry has demonstrated resilience, growth and strategic relevance.

Supporting nearly 500 jobs across Sussex and generating more than £31 million annually in economic benefit, the route is central to Newhaven’s identity as an international port and a gateway between the UK and France.

With strong foundations in place and significant headroom for growth, the focus now turns to unlocking further potential — strengthening trade flows, enhancing tourism and ensuring the Newhaven–Dieppe connection continues to deliver sustainable economic value for both regions in the years ahead.

Read the full report

The complete findings and recommendations can be read here:

Final Report