THE historic ferry between Ardrossan and Arran will be STAYING in the town, the Scottish Government has announced.  

After six months of campaigning to 'Save Our Ferry' and 'Keep it A to B - Ardrossan to Brodick', the shortest, fastest and cheapest route will remain in place with significant investment in Ardrossan to come from port owners Peel Ports. 

Cross-party campaigning across North Ayrshire from political groups, community groups, businesses and locals meant a real drive for Ardrossan, the Three Towns and for North Ayrshire. 

In a statement released this afternoon, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Keith Brown said: “Having considered all the evidence and representations, we have decided that retaining Ardrossan as the mainland port for the Arran ferry service is the best option.

“The study looked at the options under four broad pillars: Connectivity, Reliability, Overall Operational Cost to the Public Purse and Socio-Economic considerations.

 “We carried out consultation with all the key stakeholders, including groups representing the community on Arran who depend on this transport link. It plays a key role in keeping them connected to the mainland as well as supporting the tourist trade by bringing visitors to the island.

“In coming to this decision, we have also received a pledge from Peel Ports and North Ayrshire Council to invest in improved facilities at Ardrossan Harbour. The Ardrossan Task Force will now reconvene to work towards delivering these improvements as soon as possible.

“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting our lifeline ferry links and ensuring that the Arran ferry service is fit for purpose, whilst also getting the best value for the public purse.”

 

Full reaction and coverage in next week's Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald.