Delay in opening of new bus terminus

The new bus terminus at Brodick ferry terminal will not open until at least next week, it has been confirmed.

Owner Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) announced last week that the terminus would open last Friday, as reported in The Banner. However, after going to print, we were told this would not now be the case.

The opening was to coincide with the completion of phase two of the £22.2 million ferry redevelopment by contractor George Leslie Ltd. However, it is understood there are issues surrounding the operational use of the new bus stances.

In a statement CMAL said: ‘Calmac Ferries Ltd have opened the phase three pedestrian queuing area as planned, but unfortunately, due to last-minute technical and operational reasons, the planned handover of the bus stances in the bus terminus will be delayed by a short period of a few days. We are aware that the Highland games take place on Saturday August 6 and we are keen to avoid any changes that will disrupt visitors during a particularly busy period.’ As a result the new terminus will not open until next week.

The spokeswoman added: ‘There are some issues in respect of the operational responsibilities surrounding the use of the stances, which CMAL hopes to resolve in the next few days. We apologise for the delay. However, the overall terminal redevelopment remains on track. The completion of phase two was one week ahead of schedule.’