Twice as many ferries …

People could hardly believe it when the news broke. Arran is to have twice as many ferries, the Isle of Arran doubling with the Caledonian Isles on the Brodick – Ardrossan run and also providing a direct link between Ardrossan and Campbeltown. The Community Council suggested this a long time ago, but added that the problem of the narrow entry into Ardrossan Harbour could only be solved by using smaller boats with a deeper draught and less freeboard. That proposal is being thought about, with various plans on the table, but in the interim, we have double the number of sea crossings – and yes, there will be a train to meet each ferry.

The Voice would like to congratulate Transport Scotland for listening to the public feedback rather than the obviously disconnected Arran Ferry Committee, who prefer to promote their own views rather than those of the residents. This schedule with early mid week departures and the late Saturday return although, they may not be initially be popular, will enable residents to enjoy a full day on the mainland or with family and still travel home.

This together with the revisions to the new port will give us a basis for a year round two boat service which will allow our young to take on a practical and cost effective mainland job without being removed from their families and the need to cover expensive housing / living costs.

The timetable can be found on the CalMac website here.