Members of the Highland Council’s Lochaber wards met to discuss the sustainability and future of the Corran Ferry link, with options on the table that could see the privatisation of the ferry service.
It has also been established that the Scottish Government is exploring the option of potentially introducing a fixed link at Corran Ferry, under the Transport Scotland Strategic Transport Review, which would provide more frequent access to locals and visitors.
If approved, it is understood this development would still be some time away.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “The Scottish Government recognises the important role that the Corran Narrows ferry plays in connecting the Morvern and Ardnamurchan peninsulas to the mainland. The operation of the service is the responsibility of The Highland Council, therefore any decision to replace the current ferry service with a fixed link would be a matter for them.”
The Corran Ferry is the busiest single vessel route in the whole of Scotland and serves as a lifeline to local communities by connecting Nether Lochaber and Ardgour on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula.
A draft of the Corran Ferry Service Options Appraisal was presented to local councillors by private consultants Peter Brett Associates, exploring the options available to ensure the sustainability of the service for the next 20 to 30 years.
Options include remaining in the current set up, transferring responsibility over to Transport Scotland or completely revamping the current infrastructure allowing for current vessels to berth at night, increasing the safety to crew members.
Councillor Allan Henderson said: “At the meeting of the Lochaber Committee it was agreed to accept the proposal and examine further the options available to the sustainability and future of the Corran Ferry link.
“We look forward to further discussions in the coming months over the provision of the vital service.”
The Government spokesman added: “The Ferries Plan 2013-2022 stated that the Scottish Government is willing to take on responsibility for local authority lifeline ferry services, subject to the principles set out in the Plan. These principles included there being no net financial detriment to the Scottish Government.
“Council officials have helpfully met with Transport Scotland officials twice to keep them informed as to progress with the Council’s review of the Corran ferry service, in case the Council subsequently decided to approach the Scottish Government about a possible transfer.”
The appraisal is set to be discussed further at the meeting of the Highland Council’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in November.
At present, the maintaining of a secondary relief vessel is estimated to add £100,000 to the annual revenue cost of the operation of the Corran Ferry.
