WATCH Prow problems force Isle of Wight Floating Bridge suspension

• UPDATE at 1pm: The Floating Bridge has now resumed service

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It was taken out of service at 8:30am, to allow a technical officer to inspect the problem.

A replacement launch service is in operation from 0900.

It comes as the only road in and out of East Cowes is closed for work by Island Roads - with diversions via the quieter Beatrice Avenue route.

• Solent LEP could get huge refund if Floatie scrapped
• Travel: Island Roads aims to make back time on East Cowes project

Children also returned to school this week - putting pressure on the Cowes to East Cowes link.

Meanwhile, Isle of Wight Council leader Dave Stewart issued a statement last night (Tuesday) distancing himself from problems at the start of the council's bid to buy a new floating bridge for the River Medina.

Cllr Stewart said the decision to replace Floating Bridge 5 was made by former leaders in August 2014.

• Read his statement in full: Council leader in Cowes vow after distancing himself from Floating Bridge purchase
• Floating Bridge not as bad as people say, says IW Council leader