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Local newspapers in Kent reported today that Dover Harbour Board is set to take legal action against embattled ferry firm SpeedFerries over a 'substantial' unpaid bill for use of the Western Docks.

The move comes as the company's only vessel SpeedOne remains impounded at the French port of Boulogne in a row over debts owed to authorities there. The ship's seizure forced the no-frills operator to cancel all sailings indefinitely while it attempts to negotiate a settlement with the Boulogne Chamber of Commerce.

The ship is still tied up in Boulogne and talks between have not so far achieved a compromise deal to get the service running again.

Now industry sources have confirmed SpeedFerries, which is run by Danish entrepreneur Curt Stavis, is facing a fight with the authorities at the Port of Dover over what has been described as a "substantial six-figure sum".

Rumours at the port are suggesting a debt of around £250,000 in unpaid rent.  A spokesman for Dover Harbour Board refused to comment on the unpaid bill. He said: "It is company policy not to discuss customer relationships with the media."

In the current economic climate, there are fears that this could be the end for Speedferries with legal action and debts outstanding on both sides of the channel.