A summary from the recently established Arran Ferry Action Group outlining developments since the first meeting in Brodick last month.
The current state of our lifeline ferry service shows it is not fit for purpose in terms of reliability, resilience and infrastructure. The Arran Ferry Action Group is a new and fully representative lobbying group being set up to represent Arran interests in demanding service improvements and accountability in future investment decisions.
When a public meeting was announced last month, there was standing room only in Brodick Hall as island residents gathered to express their concerns about our deteriorating service, together with their support for the Action Group to bring about improvements.
Since then the Group has been busy arranging its constitution, following which a committee will be elected at a second public meeting to be held at the Ormidale Pavilion at 7pm on Wednesday 15th May. We have launched a dedicated website www.arranferries.scot to keep everyone informed of developments and to enable you to ‘Have Your Say’. Those not online can sign up their support using simple forms distributed around the island. With a significant proportion of the island’s population backing the Arran Ferry Action Group, we have a much better chance of persuading CalMac, CMAL and the Scottish Government to respond positively, so if you’ve not already done so, please register your interest today.
At the time of writing, the main priorities identified by local residents include:
Reliability & Resilience 95.5%
Ships & Harbours fit for purpose 94%
Reliable Port of Refuge in bad weather 89.6%
Better Booking & Ticketing System 68.7%
Extended Daily Service 68.7%
Faster, Twin Ferry Service 67.2%
Your priorities will become those of the Action Group, committed to challenge the status quo. With so much public money having been invested in ships that are too big and a new terminal that’s providing less reliable service, we are determined to hold those responsible to account. Mistakes must not be repeated. With your support, who knows what may prove possible?
