Green light given for ScotGov purchase of Ardrossan Harbour

Ardrossan Harbour campaigners insist they are ‘cautiously optimistic’ amid news the Scottish Government have moved a step closer to nationalising the port.

In February, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced Holyrood plans to buy the ferry hub from current owners Peel Ports Group.

Progress on the talks has been quiet recently, during a summer period that saw ageing vessel the Caledonian Isles – which mostly berthed at Ardrossan - further delayed, resulting no service from the North Ayrshire town.

On Monday, Transport Scotland confirmed Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) have been given the green light to bring negotiations with Peel Ports “towards a conclusion.”

"Summer of frustration"

And, speaking exclusively to Clyde 1 News Matthew McGowan from Save Ardrossan Harbour says is hope again after a miserable summer for the crossing to Arran.

He said: “It has been a long summer of frustration.

“We would still call for everyone involved, CMAL, Peel Ports Group and the Scottish Government to provide a clear timeline for events.

“Including the transfer process and planned investment works, so that local residents and businesses can see exactly when these improvements are going to happen.”

Before adding: “This is good news. But what’s next? And what’s the time scales for that happening.

“I’ve said countless times during these discussions; People need to be able plan. And it keeps coming back to that.

“So, while we very much welcome this, it’s a case of, what’s next?”

No deal yet

Scottish Government funding is allocated within the 2025-26 budget to facilitate the acquisition of the harbour, noting that any expenditure is subject to detailed legal, commercial and financial due diligence.

Fiona Hyslop said: “A formal Heads of Terms Agreement is being negotiated for the acquisition of Ardrossan Harbour.

“That means CMAL has the formal authorisation to move towards conclusion of negotiations with the co-operation of Peel Ports Group.

“They are engaging with Peel Ports Group on the potential change of ownership. While this involves legally complex and commercially sensitive work, we know communities on both sides of the route are frustrated.

“We want to see the much needed investment in Ardrossan progressing faster, and it is good news that the key principles of a Heads of Terms Agreement have now been exchange."

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