Ferry’s return to service on west of Scotland route hit by further delay

The return of a ferry to active service in the west of Scotland has been hit by a further delay described as “another bitter blow” for passengers by one local MSP.

MV Caledonian Isles sailed back to Brodick, Arran, after undergoing significant repairs at a shipyard on the Mersey since February and belatedly completing sea trials on September 20-21 which were originally scheduled to be completed by around September 10.

Ferry operator Calmac has said routine checks carried out after berthing trials on September 22 identified an issue with the vessel’s port gearbox, however, and this fault requires further investigation.

In a statement published online, Calmac said: “Investigations began immediately after the problem was identified, and are continuing this morning, Monday September 23, in collaboration with the manufacturer.”

The statement added: “We know this unexpected further problem will be concerning and frustrating – our teams continue to work hard to return MV Caledonian Isles to service as soon as possible.”

According to the latest update, MV Isle of Arran will continue operating the timetabled Ardrossan – Brodick service up to and including the 13.55 Brodick to Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, sailing on Tuesday.

Calmac conceded some bookings up to this point will be affected, however, and said teams would be contacting passengers whose trips have been affected.

Jamie Greene, Scottish Conservative MSP for West Scotland, said: “This is another bitter blow for those living on or visiting Arran.

“Just days after they hoped this service might finally be back up and running again, it has been hit with more technical problems.

“Sadly, they will not be surprised given that Arran has long had to try and rely on some of the oldest ferries in CalMac’s fleet.

“The absence of this aging vessel for most of this year and the lack of a reliable and modern ferry fleet has been devastating for islanders who have been shamefully abandoned by SNP ministers.

“Arran urgently needs its new ferry, otherwise winter will be as painful as summer was with breakdowns and cancellations.”

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “We recognise the impact that delays and disruption have regrettably had on our island communities – including Arran – and are committed to investing in our ferry services.

“Delivering six new major vessels to serve Scotland’s ferry network by 2026 is a priority for this Government. We have invested more than £2 billion in our ferry services since 2007 and we have outlined plans to invest around £700 million in a five-year plan to improve ferry infrastructure.

“CalMac are also investing additional sums to improve fleet sustainability and to provide a more resilient service for customers and communities.”