CLAIMS that the new Arran ferry has been delayed due to a design fault in the bow have not been denied by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL).

The Herald was informed by an anonymous source that the Glen Sannox has a fault relating to a bulbous bow and that the ferry is currently undergoing work to rectify the issue at Garvel Clyde Shipyard in Greenock.

But CMAL, which owns the new ship, would neither confirm nor deny the claims.

A spokesperson for the company said: “MV Glen Sannox will be going back into dry dock for further build work to be completed, including work on the bow. This a regular part of the ship building process and does not impact on the estimated delivery date.

“FMEL anticipate a delivery in Winter 2018/19, followed by a period of familiarisation with the nominated crew from CalMac.”