A massive review of the ferry system is to kick off with free travel for West End residents.

The three-month concession is part of a drive to encourage people off the roads and on to the water.

In addition to the free service, an extra early evening trip from Hamilton will operate in the week until the end of the summer.

The scheme is part of a huge overhaul of the ferry and road system, which may include new high-speed catamarans on commuter routes, park and ride projects and a door-to-door-pick up service.

Transport Minister Wayne Furbert said during the "free'' period, research would be conducted and the subsequent data collected would form the basis for an expanded ferry service.

The whole idea was ultimately to get people out of their vehicles and onto public transport -- reducing the congestion and pollution that blights the island at certain times of day.

"This service is designed to provide residents of the Somerset area with an opportunity to experience the benefits of public transportation,'' said Mr.

Furbert.

"They will be able to enjoy a safe, comfortable and timely service, while leaving the hassle of driving and parking one's car behind.'' The free ferries -- which arrive in Hamilton at 8.10 a.m. and 8.50 a.m. and leave Hamilton at 5.20 p.m. and 6 p.m. -- coincide with the renovation work taking place at Somerset Bridge.

Although it is planned to complete a two-way temporary causeway around the bridge to carry traffic, Mr. Furbert said the Government had decided it was time to do something for West End residents.

"Coming into Hamilton from the West End is a nightmare, we want to encourage residents to leave their cars at home.'' The data collected, which will include traveller questionnaires, will provide the new Transportation Authority Committee with the information on whether or not there is the need for expanded services.

Mr. Furbert said other plans include new high-speed services, with the possibility of new ferries, park and ride, and new routes from Morgan's Point and Jews Bay.

In addition the Minister said he had had exploratory talks with taxi operators about the possibility of offering a door-to-door service for ferry passengers in the West End.

The free service -- which includes motorcycles -- starts on April 13, and travellers will have to show identification on embarking. A bus service will connect the Naval Annex and Watford Bridge.

An extra ferry will also run from Hamilton at 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, to accommodate the increase in commuters and tourists. Arriving at Watford Bridge at 6.30 p.m., it stops at Dockyard at 6.50 p.m. before returning to Hamilton at 7.20 p.m.

Wayne Furbert