THERE is hope for Ardrossan after Peel Ports, the owners of the harbour site, said that they would be willing to launch a multi-million investment in the town.

The company, which operates Ardrossan Harbour, announced that “a long-term commitment” to retaining “the fastest, shortest and cheapest” ferry route to Brodick would urge them to transform the area.

Last week, the Herald reported that Gary Hodgson, Peel Ports’ chief operating officer, met with Council leader Joe Cullinane and Chief Executive Elma Murray.

They discussed investment options for significantly improved passenger and berthing facilities at Ardrossan for the new generation of ferries being introduced by Calmac in 2018.

This week, Mr Hodgson said: “A long-term commitment to maintain the ferry on the fastest, shortest and cheapest route would be the catalyst for Peel Ports launching a multi-million pound investment programme at Ardrossan.

“We’re working closely with North Ayrshire Council on plans to completely transform the marine infrastructure and the passenger facilities, matching the world-class vessels which will sail the route from 2018.”