Privatisation an option for Corran Ferry link
Privatisation is one of the options being considered when it comes to the future of the Corran Ferry link.
That and other options to ensure the sustainability of the lifeline service were discussed by members of the Highland Council’s Lochaber wards last week.
The Scottish Government is currently exploring the option of potentially introducing a fixed link at Corran Ferry – the busiest single route ferry link in Scotland – under the Transport Scotland Strategic Transport Review.
The draft of the Corran Ferry Service Options Appraisal discussed by local councillors was compiled by private consultants Peter Brett Associates.
The report looks at all the options available to ensure the sustainability of the service over the next 20 to 30 years.
These include sticking with the current set up; transferring responsibility to Transport Scotland or a total overhaul of the current infrastructure allowing for the existing vessels to berth at night, thus increasing safety for crew members.
Councillors accepted a proposal to further examine the options.
The Scottish Government’s Ferries Plan 2013-2022 states the government is willing to take on responsibility for local authority lifeline ferry services, subject to the principles set out in the plan.
These principles included there being no net financial detriment to the Scottish Government.
There will be further discussions about the appraisal at Highland Council’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in November.
Lochaber Area Committee chairman Councillor Andrew Baxter, Independent, Fort William and Ardnamurchan, said at long last, the local authority had recognised the need for an in-depth study into the future of the Corran Ferry, clearly stating the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
‘This report is in marked contrast to what we usually receive in Lochaber, which was a demand to increase ferry fares again,’ Mr Baxter told the Lochaber Times this week.
‘No final decision has been taken. We need to discuss in detail with Transport Scotland whether it is viable for the ferry to be transferred to the government.
‘I suspect this isn’t feasible because of the impact it will have on fares, seeing local people face increased charges because of the current RET [Road Equivalent Tariff ] rules.
‘At the same time, we need to do a proper assessment as to whether a bridge is a longterm solution.
‘I’ve urged council officers to carry on with that work. If it is possible, we shouldn’t lose a moment in making the case to central government for funding.’