Ferry drop-in cafe

Sir, Arran SNP members discussed the future of Ardrossan as the mainland ferry port at a branch meeting on Sunday November 13. While it is becoming clearer that Troon offers no advantage over Ardrossan, we welcome the Scottish Government’s decision to consult widely on the issue.

One strand of Arran opinion holds that Ardrossan’s advantages are so obvious that there can only be one possible outcome in this issue. There is a danger in complacency, however.

The Scottish Government has invested heavily in ferry infrastructure over the last few years, not least for the Arran route, which is now supported by RET, the new £20million Brodick terminal, and a state-of-theart multi-million pound ferry on the way. Arran’s economy is benefiting greatly, and these advances should not be threatened. Should the mainland ferry port be relocated to Troon, there is a high risk of fewer sailings, higher fares, and big disadvantages for foot passengers.

Retaining Ardrossan as our mainland port is supported strongly by Kenneth Gibson, our MSP, Patricia Gibson, our MP, and overwhelmingly by North Ayrshire Council. It is nevertheless important that the island viewpoint should be powerfully expressed.

With this in mind, we are hosting a drop-in café at the Ormidale Pavilion from 10am to 2.30pm on Wednesday November 23. We’ll provide teas, coffees, homebaking, and some information.

Arran residents can also make their views known to the Transport Minister: Humza Yousaf MSP, Minister of Transport, St Andrew’s House, Regent Road, Edinburgh, EH1 3DG (or by email to scottish.ministers@gov.scot)

Yours,

Dr Malcolm Kerr Convener Isle of Arran SNP