Transport links between the Sussex coast and France are to continue for at least another five years.

The DFDS ferry link between Newhaven and Dieppe will be extended after the company won a new contract.

The current deal had previously been set to expire at the end of the year but now a new deal has been struck which will now run until at least 2027.

Ferries to the Normandy coast currently run twice a day across the English Channel with an extra trip added during peak season between May and September.

Jean Claude Charlo, head of French organisation at DFDS, said: “Today’s announcement secures hundreds of local jobs and will enable us to pursue our ambitious plans to invest in the route.

“We have a very clear vision for the future of the route, and we are excited by the opportunity to realise this over the next five years.

"In addition to new branding and a new schedule, which will increase frequency during the key summer period, we will also invest heavily in the ships, introducing a new driver concept onboard and improved duty-free area. We have a very clear vision for the future of the route, and we are excited by the opportunity to realise this over the next five years.”

“We will work with local organisations and tourist boards to promote Dieppe and the wider Normandy region to UK visitors, bringing more holidaymakers to the area and helping to boost investment in the local economy.”

The future of the Newhaven-Dieppe line had previously been thrown into doubt after rulings against carrier DFDS but the French government have continued to subsidise the link.

The crossing has been run by the Danish company since 2012 who have now won the contract for the link three times.

The ferry link continues to create a large number of jobs for the area and is a popular crossing to continental Europe. The service has been a part of Newhaven for some time, dating as far back as the mid-19th century.

The Argus: Maria Caulfield at the Newhaven ferry portMaria Caulfield at the Newhaven ferry port (Image: maria Caulfield)

Maria Caulfield, MP for Lewes, said: “I am delighted that the ferries between Newhaven and Dieppe will be continuing for a further five years. I have met multiple times with representatives in both Newhaven and Dieppe to ensure that this service continues.

“I know that residents in Newhaven and further afield really value this service, and I welcome this vote of confidence in Newhaven as we continue to regenerate the town.”