A row has broken out between Highland Council and Lochaber Area Committee over the introduction of ferry fares on one of Scotland’s busiest vehicle ferry routes.
Last week the Press and Journal reported that residents who use the ferry between Corran and Ardgour on a daily basis are to be faced with a pedestrian and cycle charge of up to £5 per day.
However the charges, that were later confirmed by Highland Council and due to be introduced yesterday, have now been put on hold for another week – for local council members to discuss.
The charges are for foot passengers and cyclists – and not for anyone already travelling in a car across the Corran Narrows.
Councillor Andrew Baxter said in a statement: “The suggestion to introduce a foot passenger fare, not applicable to vehicle passengers, comes from feedback from the numerous community meetings, economic studies and consultations that were held following the 23% increase in fares in 2013 and 2014.
“The introduction of a flat fare for foot passengers and cyclists consistently came back as an option with widespread support. Five years later, the council has finally agreed to implement this suggestion.
“Like many council decisions, this is being implemented poorly.
On Monday, I made it clear to officers that Lochaber councillors should be consulted on the fine detail and set the final fares – not officers in Inverness.
“That means we can consider the implications. Do we want to provide free crossings for children, as many use the ferry to get the bus to Lochaber High School from the Corran side, should there a free pass for peninsula residents etc?
“As a result, the charges will not go live until Lochaber councillors have met and debated this in public. Our area committee is on August 29 and I have ensured this is on the agenda.”
A spokeswoman for Highland Council confirmed: “The system is live from 22 August 2019 but no fares will be charged, machines will remain covered, until fares concessions and discounts have been agreed by councillors at the area committee.”
