Permanent fix needed to save Easdale harbour
Easdale harbour is at risk and the ferry service is in jeopardy unless more work is carried out soon to give protection, the leader of Argyll and Bute Council has been warned.
Former Highlands and Islands MSP and Easdale resident Mike MacKenzie says more dredging is urgently needed otherwise it will become impossible to run the ferry service and there is a danger the island will lose its harbour altogether.
Work to dredge the harbour’s entrance was only completed a couple of weeks ago says Mr MacKenzie, but Storm Aiden took its toll.
Easdale and Seil Community Council chairman Zim Knight agrees a more permanent solution needs to be found, saying: ‘We are aware the harbour wall has been breached just a matter of weeks after the council finished repairs. We will actively work with the council to find a permanent solution.’
In an open letter to council leader Robin Currie, Mr MacKenzie said: ‘The cost of this work must have been significant. Unfortunately Saturday’s gale, the first of this winter, has resulted in the shingle bank, which protects the harbour, and much of the work done by council contractors has already been undone because no further steps have been taken to protect and stabilise the loose shingle bank and harbour entrance. I would ask that you arrange further dredging.
‘Unless this is done soon it will become impossible to run the ferry and there is a danger we will lose the harbour altogether. I would stress again more permanent protection measures should be put in hand otherwise the council will continually face further and needless expenditure.’
An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: ‘Had we not carried out recent work, storm damage would have been much worse. So that is a positive.
‘We hope any future plans for the harbour can be taken forward in partnership with all users – council, community and commercial. The first step would be a feasibility study to consider constructing breakwaters to the north of the channel.
‘We would hope to issue the brief before the end of the financial year.’