MSP Katy Clark has described the latest delay to the Ardrossan Harbour development as "yet another kick in the teeth" for islanders, ferry users and the mainland town.

The West of Scotland Labour politician was reacting to the news that details of the habour upgrade - approved by the Scottish Government six years ago - were still being thrashed out.

It's believed that Transport Scotland, CalMac, harbour owners Peel Ports and North Ayrshire Council have still to agree who pays what for the multi-million pound improvement plan.

Ms Clark said: “This news is yet another kick in the teeth for islanders, ferry users and the people of Ardrossan, who are desperately awaiting news on the future of the harbour.

“For months, I have repeatedly chased the Transport Secretary for progress. For months, I have received evasive responses. It is now clear this is because we are back at square one, with stakeholders unable to agree who pays for what.

“This feels like groundhog day after private owner Peel Ports spent years delaying grant terms after the Scottish Labour-run North Ayrshire Council obtained government approval all the way back in 2018.

"It is for these reasons we have repeatedly called for the port to be taken into public ownership to accelerate progress.

“Residents, ferry users, islanders, businesses and workers are all united – they want the service to run from Ardrossan in the long term because it is the quickest, most cost effective route.

"The Scottish Government must recognise the strength of feeling and now urgently push for progress.”

This week, Cunninghame North MSP Kenneth Gibson told the Herald he was deeply frustrated by the latest delay.

He added: "This situation cannot continue to drag on and the Cabinet Secretary for Transport must urgently press for a solution.”

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop had earlier responded to a written question by Mr Gibson on the 

She told the MSP: "I understand and share the member's frustrations on the Ardrossan Harbour redevelopment, as do my officials working on the project. 

"The business case work and overall delivery of the project needs to be supported by the financial packages from each of the main funding partners.

"It is imperative therefore that these and the legal agreements are clearly defined, affordable and ensure value to the public purse.

"During recent discussions with funding partners, there have been some emerging issues in relation to the funding packages and costs to Government that require further investigation and to be concluded before the business case can be finalised. 

"Officials are progressing these matters as quickly as possible, and will look to provide respective updates when notable progress is made."