Arran must come first in ferry debate

The debate over the future destination of the Arran ferry shows no sign of abating.

However while there is considerable talk on the mainland – in newspapers, campaigns, radio and TV coverage – much of it focuses on the respective ports of Ardrossan and Troon.

So perhaps it is time to remember who has to come first in this debate – Arran.

At least the Troon bid has offered something to the island, even though a community fund may seem something of a sop, given how important this decision is for the whole future of the island.

Peel Ports at Ardrossan say they are now ready to invest in Ardrossan if they are given a long-term assurance from the government that the ferry will continue to use their port. But as Daniel Bowles said at the Arran Community Council meeting this week why now ‘as for years they have sat on their hands doing nothing’?

Politicians of all parties in North Ayrshire are vehemently backing Ardrossan, and Arran MSP Kenneth Gibson has gone so far as to lodge a motion in the Scottish parliament demanding that service remains in Ardrossan. However in South Ayrshire, politicians there are, naturally, backing Troon.

What must not be allowed to happen is for this to become a political tug of war between the two mainland ports with Arran caught as piggy in the middle. It is the needs of the island which must come first.

The interest of another port has certainly prompted the Arran ferry to be pushed into the spotlight and given higher priority on the political agenda, which can only be a good thing.

Despite politicians and business leaders backing Ardrossan, there are some on the island who support the move to Troon. We just hope in the weeks and months ahead there can be a reasoned and sensible debate on the merits and drawbacks of both ports, and a decision reached which is in the best interest of the people of Arran.

Let’s then make our voices heard.