A historic ferry route cut, devastating a Scottish town. Businesses struggle, and residents demand action.
Ardrossan is a port town in Scotland. It is a thousand years old. Ferries to Arran ran for two centuries. CalMac ferries handled this service. It boosted tourism and trade.
New, bigger boats came. Ardrossan’s harbor was too small. The ferry went to Troon instead. This town is sixteen miles away.
Since January 13, trouble started. People in Ardrossan want harbor work. They want it big enough for new ferries. Passengers are key to the town’s yearly income.
One bookstore owner called it a disaster. She said many depend on the ferry. A laundry owner lost hundreds each week. This happened after the change.
A petition asks for harbor upgrades. The group is Save Ardrossan Harbour. It calls the ferry a “lifeline.” They say it’s Scotland’s busiest route. They need the Scottish government’s help.
Campaigners note a big economic impact. Arran residents can’t easily reach services. Dentists, hospitals, and opticians are hard to get to. Troon got the ferry dock. It is a richer area where Glasgow commuters live.
The old service was vital. Businesses need Arran visitors. The Scottish Government may buy the harbor. Fiona Hyslop is the Transport Secretary. She seeks a cost-effective answer. She says they tried their best. They could not agree on a plan. This made things unsure for everyone. Now, they look for a new fix. Buying the harbor is now a possibility. She knows the port is important, and she wants the ferry fixed.