Call for permanent fix as ferry goes off
The Corran ferry service has once again been forced to implement contingency measures after a technical issue forced the withdrawal of the MV Maid of Glencoul.
At the time of going to press the boat, which carries passengers and vehicles between Ardgour and Nether Lochaber, was provisionally scheduled to return on Wednesday July 5 after being taken off the route on June 28.
No vehicle crossings have been possible across the Corran Narrows during its absence.
A problem with the vessel’s steering system was discovered just before 4pm on June 28. A specialist maritime engineer was required on site and plans to have a part machined locally were made.
Contingency measures for foot passengers were put in place, including a free 12 passenger service from Nether Lochaber to Ardgour, which started at 6am on Saturday, alongside a temporary foot passenger service from Fort William Pier to Ardgour.
The existing shuttle bus connecting to a Highland ferries foot passenger service between Fort William to Camusnagaul, which was already running on an enhanced timetable, was also continued.
Upon news of the Maid’s withdrawal, the chairperson of the Corran Ferry Steering Group, Fort William and Ardnamurchan SNP councillor Sarah Fanet, said: ‘’I am very pleased that contingency measures have been put in place quickly and this is a reminder of the importance of the existing foot passenger ferry service between Camusnagaul and Fort William, combined with a bus shuttle.
“I just want to thank all staff and crew who are doing everything they can to have this resolved as soon as possible.’’
The Scottish Parliament’s Deputy Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands, Conservative Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, said the latest breakdown was another blow to communities already blighted by significant disruption while having to rely on a 47-year old vessel.
He added: “This only highlights the urgent need for a long-term solution to address the ongoing issues plaguing this vital service.”
The busiest ferry route in Scotland has faced a difficult year, making national headlines when its two vessels - the MV Maid of Glencoul and the MV Corran – were simultaneously out of service in the spring. This left the route without a car service for two months.
After that withdrawal, the Maid returned to service on Monday June 5, however, the MV Corran remains absent after going for an overhaul in October 2022. It is currently awaiting the delivery from Germany of a new crown wheel gear for its propulsion unit.
The Highland Council says it expects the vessel to return in mid-August.