An unpopular decision on the isle of Skye has proved to be a real succes on Mull.
Hundreds of people on Skye have signed an online petition calling for the MV Coruisk ferry to return to the Mallaig to Armadale crossing.
CalMac removed the MV Coruisk from this crossing and put on the Mull route, replacing it with two smaller vessels and the Lord of the Isles during the down time from her regular Lochboisdale run.
People on Mull have been enjoying the extra sailings made possible by the Coruisk.
Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Transportation, Mull-based Councillor Alistair MacDougall, said: “The additional vessel, the MSV Coruisk, has made a huge difference to the island. With the introduction of the Road Equivalent Tariff (RET) last year, making ferry travel much cheaper, we anticipated an increase in visitors and were delighted when it was confirmed there would be an extra ferry.
“Not only is it a wonderful resource for tourists to visit our beautiful island, providing a huge boost for local businesses, from cafes to outdoor sports companies, and everyone in between, it’s great for local people, meaning there are now sailings every daylight hour, making Mull better connected to the mainland.”
Depute Policy Lead for Children and Families, Councillor Mary-Jean Devon, who also lives on Mull, said: “We are so pleased with this new service. It’s providing such a boost to the island, bringing in people, supporting jobs, and creating more for local people on the boat itself. From a children and families perspective, it’s a real game-changer, making it so much easier for people to get on and off the island for medical appointments as well as for our children getting to and from Oban – it’s opening up even more opportunities for them to get involved in sports and recreation clubs, or even do something as simple as going to the cinema. With a ferry every hour it takes the time pressure away.
“Island connectivity is so important for the health and wellbeing of our community. We’re delighted and hope that the service continues long into the future.”
