TRAFFIC congestion at peak times in Ardrossan will be ‘ridiculous’ if the new Ardrossan Academy Campus goes ahead at the North Shore.

That’s according to a CalMac enthusiast who is worried about the passenger experience and delays for tourists and islanders alike.

Allan Smith believes that the ferry which arrives in Ardrossan shortly before 3pm could cause major problems as pupils and teachers would be leaving the school and St Matthew’s Academy around the same time.

He told the Herald: “The new Ardrossan Academy location in the Shell will have a significant impact on the passenger experience for those going to Arran. It’s right on the main routes to the bypass.

“Congestion at peak times will be ridiculous, just as it is with St Matthew’s Academy on Jacks Road. A lot of people are going to miss their ferries and Ardrossan will be the cause of it.

“It’s not good, considering Troon is now always looming over our shoulder.”

Allan also said that the berth known as the tankers’ berth, near to the flats at Mariner’s View, was a possible new home for the Arran terminal with the Shell site as a car park to avoid congesting the bottom end of the town, but that the development of flats had put those plans on hold.

He added: “The academy would cause unbelievable amounts of congestion at closing time. Three o’clock in the afternoon is near enough school closing time and that’s when the Caley Isles (or Sannox) would be coming in.

“All the traffic would be getting stuck behind parents and buses — not to mention the fire and coastguard stations, both of which might also suffer congestion.

“I also think the huge school would spoil the views for everyone and would suffer from the proximity to the weather and salty air.”

As we revealed last week, consultation is set to be launched with the people of Ardrossan to get their views ahead of a possible move, which could include Winton Primary School, a nursery, Ardrossan Library and the swimming pool and gym from Auchenharvie Leisure Centre.

To give your views on the subject, email editorial@ardrossanherald.co.uk