Key works have started at Ardrossan Harbour to help bring it up to the required standard to run a full ferry service. The news was delivered by Scottish Government Cabinet Minister Stephen Flynn on Wednesday.
The Ardrossan Harbour Task Force met to discuss the next steps for the redevelopment of the harbour, following its acquisition by Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) earlier this year. The meeting, co-chaired by Mr Flynn, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, brought key stakeholders together to discuss progress made on the harbour’s redevelopment and the group’s role in supporting its delivery.
Members also discussed feedback from yesterday’s public engagement event held by CMAL in Ardrossan, which gathered local views on the developing proposals.
Minister highlights commitment to Arran ferry service
Mr Flynn said: “I was pleased to co-chair the latest meeting of the Task Force and want to thank all members for their attendance and contributions during the discussion. The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring the Arran ferry service is fit for the future, and input from local stakeholders is key to this.
“Public ownership of the harbour allows us to deliver the investments needed to modernise the facility, ensuring it meets the long-term needs of communities and businesses on both sides of the route.
“CMAL has already made good progress to improve passenger experience at the harbour, having recently completed a programme of essential works to support the continued operation of ferry services from Ardrossan.
“As work continues on proposals for the redevelopment of the harbour, I will ensure that Task Force members, key stakeholders and the local communities are kept informed of progress.”
Council leader welcomes progress
Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, has welcomed the work carried out so far as part of the vital project.
He said: “We welcome the continued commitment from the Scottish Government and CMAL to the future of Ardrossan Harbour and the progress that has been made since the harbour came into public ownership.
“The redevelopment of the port represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a modern, resilient gateway that supports islanders, businesses and visitors for decades to come.
“Ardrossan Harbour is far more than a ferry terminal. It is a vital economic asset for both Ardrossan and Arran, supporting jobs, investment, connectivity and community life on both sides of the Firth of Clyde.
“As plans continue to develop, it is essential that the chosen solution delivers a sustainable long-term future for the port, protects its strategic importance and provides the reliable ferry service that residents, businesses and visitors depend upon.
“North Ayrshire Council remains committed to working with partners through the Task Force to ensure the redevelopment delivers lasting benefits for our communities and helps unlock the full potential of Ardrossan as a key regional transport and economic hub.”
CMAL outlines next steps
Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL, added: “Since taking ownership of Ardrossan Harbour, our focus has been on carrying out essential improvements to support ongoing ferry operations, while progressing plans for the harbour’s longer-term redevelopment.
“Feedback from local communities is an important part of this process, and the views gathered at our public engagement sessions will help inform the scope and phasing of future works.
“We will continue working closely with Transport Scotland, the Task Force and other stakeholders to ensure the plans reflect the operational requirements of the ferry service and the needs of the communities it serves.”
