Transport Scotland insists the Scottish Government understands the concerns of the Ardrossan community after a local group expressed their worries about the future of the harbour.

The Save Ardrossan Harbour group feel it is being ‘sidelined’, ‘ignored’ and ‘overlooked’ after changes to the winter timetable meant sailings to Brodrick would go from Troon.  

The MV Ben-my-Chree is being redeployed to serve the route and the situation has angered locals in Ardrossan who have now formed the group in an attempt to save their harbour.

The group says it is delighted to see a more resilient service being explored for the winter months but admits it feels that Ardrossan are being left behind with little being done to ensure services continue from the harbour.

It says it is disappointed by the lack of information being published surrounding the works at the harbour and believe money being spent there would improve the service that is needed.

Last month, the group held a public meeting where it called on Peel Ports – who look after the harbour – Calmac, the Scottish Government and others to commit to discussions about the area.

In a statement, the group said: “We at Save Ardrossan Harbour are glad to see that options are being explored to offer a more resilient service over the winter. However, we are sad to report that no further information has been published regarding the works at Ardrossan Harbour. Money spent on this would be the best course of action for future proofing as this is the most reliable service which could be offered.

“It’s frustrating to see another trial destined for Troon instead of focusing on preserving the Ardrossan to Brodick route. That route has been vital for many people and businesses. Have there been any discussions about the challenges affecting Ardrossan, or is it just being overlooked?

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“It’s concerning when a key transportation route like Ardrossan to Brodick seems to be sidelined. This route is crucial for both locals and visitors, supporting not just travel but also the economy on both sides. The shift to trial another ferry on the Brodick to Troon route raises questions about priorities and whether there's a genuine commitment to maintaining and improving existing services.

“The Ardrossan to Brodick connection has its own unique challenges, like weather disruptions and capacity issues, but simply ignoring it in favour of trials that may not address these specific needs can feel like a lack of consideration for those who rely on it. It would be beneficial to engage with the wider community to understand their needs and concerns, as well as to explore innovative solutions that can enhance the reliability and efficiency of the Ardrossan route.

“Public input and transparency in decision-making would foster a more inclusive approach, ensuring that all options are explored rather than just shifting focus to alternate routes. Ultimately, it’s about maintaining a reliable service that meets the demands of the community and supports local businesses.

“To date we have received no reply from Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop from our request made on 16th September. We urge the Scottish Government to come back to the people of North Ayrshire and Arran shortly with their commitment as agreed previously.

“The MV Alfred is currently being leased and now Ben-my-Chree is possibly going to be leased from isle of Man Steam Packet Company. It would be interesting to know how many millions will be committed to temporary charters before work begins in Ardrossan.”

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government remains committed to ensuring the Arran ferry service is fit for the future, and to find a solution at Ardrossan that can be delivered in a cost-effective way reflecting the needs of all partners involved.

“We acknowledge the call for a commitment to Ardrossan and absolutely understand the views of the communities in favour of retaining Ardrossan as the mainland port and this has been laid out in the draft business case accordingly.

“The business case work and overall delivery of the project needs to be supported by the financial packages from each of the main funding partners. It is imperative therefore that these and the legal agreements are clearly defined, are affordable and ensures value to the public purse. The business case is substantially complete, and project partners continue to work on this as quickly as practicable.

“A meeting of the Task Force will be reconvened soon after the business case and cost exercise review has been submitted to Ministers for a decision.”

A spokesperson for Peel Ports said: “The ongoing cancellations, delays, and uncertainty are devastating for the people and businesses of Arran and Ardrossan.

“Peel Ports remains fully committed to the original Port redevelopment programme and is ready to begin the public procurement process once the ministerial taskforce approves the revised business case.

“In the meantime, Ardrossan Harbour continues to operate safely and effectively, with no recent cancellations at the Arran berth due to maintenance, aside from scheduled repairs for vessel damage.”