Ferry fares between Ardrossan and Arran will freeze for six months throughout 2023, say the Scottish Government.

Beginning in April and going on to September, the measures are part of the Government’s plan to tackle the cost-of-living crisis in rural communities and promote tourism.

The freezes will be effective throughout the whole of the Northern Isles and Clyde & Hebrides route network.

Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government is acutely aware of the particular challenges faced by our island communities, where the ongoing cost of living impacts are arguably more challenging than in any other part of the country.

“Ministers are also mindful of the disruption on the ferry network in recent times - particularly in relation to the Clyde and Hebrides network.

“This fares freeze is the right thing for our island communities and I hope it will go some way to encouraging tourism this summer as island businesses continue to recover from the pandemic.

“We will consider fares policy in the longer term as part of both the Island Connectivity Plan and our wider ‘fair fares’ review, to ensure that we continue to address the needs of Scotland’s islands.”

Noting the “disruptions” to ferry services in the area, the Minister acknowledged the issues with the heavily delayed MV Glen Sannox which is set to service the route between Ardrossan and Arran.

The move has been praised by the Ferries Community Board who said the measures will help issues surrounding “financial and social costs” to island residents.

The board’s chair, Angus Campbell, said: “The Ferries Community Board welcome the Ministers announcement that ferry fares will not be increased at this point.

“The case for this had been made directly to the Minister at our last meeting.

“We are particularly pleased that it is recognised that there have been ongoing financial and social costs to Islanders and Island businesses due to regular failures to our lifeline services.”

Additionally, the Isle of Arran Ferry Committee also lauded the decision as they reiterated CalMac CEO’s statement on their Facebook page.

Robbie Drummond, Chief Executive of CalMac, said: “We welcome this decision, which will be good news for island communities.

“Now that we have the decision on the 2023 fares from the Transport Minister, we will be able to complete the work required on our systems to enable us to open bookings.

“As previously announced, we will open bookings as soon as possible and certainly before the end of January. The opening date for bookings will be advertised very shortly.”