A new harbour authority is needed for Fort William

I attended the Fort William 2040 event on September 12. What struck me was that the area under discussion and consideration was from Achintore to the Annat Narrows to the north and east, whereas Treslaig, Camusnagaul, Achaphubuil and Blaich to the south and west were just white lands with no reference made to our community interests. I raised this at the meeting of Ardgour Community Council the following night. It is imperative that our interests, ambitions and concerns are addressed in the next iteration of the plan.

We welcome the priority given to the marine and waterfront elements. This should include usage of the Camusnagaul ferry for local use, visitors accessing the Crofters Walk and cyclists on the 78 cycle route using the A861 between Corran and Fort William.

One important need is to establish a harbour authority to provide the management and wider local benefits.

I am very concerned about any proposed expansion of Corpach Port in view of long-standing environmental concerns. In particular, any expansion onto Eilean nan Craobh, which is of considerable historic and ecological interest, will have major environmental and landscape impacts for our community.

Account needs to be taken of the Corran ferry with the current vessels nearing 20 and 50 years old. The last Lochaber Local Plan, 15 years ago, included a policy for a low level, opening bridge. That is required or a modern ferry with modified jetties to permit other relief vessels being used.

Whenever the A82 between Nether Lochaber and Fort William is blocked by an accident, landslip or trees, vehicles use the Corran ferry to access the north or south. The alternative is a four-hour detour. The A861 between Ardgour and Kinlocheil is single track. To cope with vastly increased use during periods when the A82 is blocked, we require more passing places, extended passing places and signs detailing overtaking procedures to avoid traffic chaos. Michael Foxley, by email.