NICOLA Sturgeon has said that her government are committed to prioritising Ardrossan Harbour but has not ruled out the possible relocation of the ferry service to Troon, writes Rebecca Garrett.

During First Minister’s questions last week, Ms Sturgeon assured Kenneth Gibson, MSP for Cunninghame North, that Ardrossan Harbour remains the government’s top priority and that no decisions had been made about relocating the ferry service.

But the First Minister did not say whether or not she ruled out the service moving to Troon and stressed that all options were being analysed.

Addressing Ms Sturgeon, Mr Gibson said: “The First Minister will be aware that Associated British Ports is attempting to entice the lifeline Arran ferry service from Ardrossan to Troon with the loss of at least 165 Ardrossan jobs, despite the fact that the existing service is the most direct, shortest, fastest and cheapest route for passengers, cars, buses and hauliers.

“Can she confirm that Ardrossan Harbour remains the Scottish Government’s first choice Ayrshire port in serving Arran? And when can we expect a decision to ensure that the new £47 million ferry that is currently being built in Port Glasgow to serve Arran will sail from Ardrossan Harbour?”

The First Minister responded that her government were “committed to providing the best possible service for Arran, including works at Brodick Harbour as well as the new ferry that Kenny Gibson refers to”.

She added: “A task force has been set up led by the Transport Minister to look at Ardrossan in the first instance, although, of course, no options are off the table. Any consideration will take into

account the local social and economic benefits and the impact on public spending but principally, the needs of ferry users.

“I can assure Kenny Gibson that no decisions have been made and we will continue to engage closely with all stakeholders in analysing the options.”

Meanwhile during an exchange between West of Scotland MSP Jamie Greene and Minister for Transport and the Islands Humza Yousaf, the former did not confirm whether or not the service would be relocated.

Mr Greene accused Mr Yousaf and the Scottish Government of “dithering” after the Transport Minister said that he would examine all the options available.

Mr Yousaf said: “We will continue the work with the Ardrossan task force, a good amount of work has been done. It would be an abdication of my responsibility if I didn’t look at every single option that came to my table. What I’m saying is I’m not closed minded, I do realise the significant challenges but also the opportunities that route can present as well.”

Mr Greene responded: “The evidence in favour of the Ardrossan retention is overwhelming at this stage. Instead of dithering on the issue it should fall to the Scottish Government to show a clear commitment to pursuing the most effective option that will deliver the best service, best value for money and which will have the least damaging effect on the local economy.

“At this point it makes sense to make a quick and conclusive end to the issue rather than dragging it out and causing uncertainty.”