Public meeting to be held in bid to save Ardrossan Harbour

And they will be holding a public meeting next week in a bid to launch a campaign to keep the Arran ferry running from the town.

Save Ardrossan Harbour are calling on Peel Ports, Calmac, Clyde Marine Assets Ltd, North Ayrshire Council, and the Scottish Government to commit to open, honest discussions about the future of the lifeline service.

And they have invited everyone along to a meeting in Ardrossan Civic Centre on Wednesday, October 2 at 7pm.

The group's Frances Gilmour said: "We cannot allow Ardrossan Harbour to fade into irrelevance

"This harbour has been the lifeblood of our town for centuries, and its future affects every one of us.

"Local businesses are suffering, islanders are missing crucial healthcare services, and the town is being forgotten. We need action now."

Save Ardrossan Harbour has been launched after years of problems surrounding the facility.

Vital upgrade work at the harbour to allow the terminal to accommodate Caledonian MacBrayne's two new Arran ferries was promised by Humza Yousaf, when he was Scotland's transport minister, in 2018.

But the project was called in for a review by Transport Scotland last summer amid mounting concern at the rising cost of the scheme.

Since then harbour owners Peel Ports have closed the Irish Berth - blaming it had deteriorated due to overuse. That was the berth for the second Ardrossan-Brodick ferry.

The Lighthouse Pier (Image: Save Ardrossan Harbour) As a result, the second ferry, MV Alfred, has been forced to operate out of Troon harbour, with a much longer crossing time to the island.

When Arran's two new ferries arrive, they will also have to operate from Troon until the Ardrossan Harbour upgrade is completed... if, indeed, it is every completed.

In a statement the new group said: "After years of neglect, stalled progress, and lack of clear communication, the time for action is now.

"Save Ardrossan Harbour, a community-driven group, is urging all stakeholders to act with urgency, transparency, and respect to restore the harbour to its rightful place at the heart of our community.

"Ardrossan Harbour is more than just a port. It is a vital artery connecting the mainland and Arran, offering the shortest, most efficient, and affordable ferry route between the two.

"The Ardrossan to Brodick sailing is not just about transportation - it sustains the heartbeat of everyday life for families, workers, and businesses on both sides of the crossing.

"In 2023 this was the busiest passenger route with 724,706 passengers using this crossing.

"While there has been much discussion around ferries, crossings, and tourism, the human factor has been overlooked.

The proposed Ardrossan maritime hub (Image: NAC) "Ardrossan Harbour has been part of the town’s fabric since its foundation stone was laid in 1806, but today, it stands neglected, its future uncertain.

"This uncertainty impacts not only businesses but also healthcare, employment, and daily life for residents who rely on the ferry to access essential services.

"Local businesses, both in Ardrossan and on Arran, are deeply connected to the number of ferry sailings. Every cancelled or delayed crossing has a ripple effect on the local economy, impacting jobs, services, and livelihoods.

"Without a functioning harbour, unemployment will rise, and essential businesses could be forced to close their doors.

"But this issue goes beyond business. Healthcare services, from doctor appointments to hospital visits, rely on the Ardrossan-Brodick sailing. Islanders depend on this route to access critical medical care on the mainland, and any disruption to the ferry service threatens their well-being."

They added: "The long-delayed business case for Ardrossan Harbour must be brought to light, with a clear and transparent plan laid out for the public.

"Join us in our fight to Save Ardrossan Harbour. The time for action is now.

"We are hosting a public meeting at Ardrossan Civic Centre on Wednesday, October 2 at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to attend."