MSP Jamie Greene has warned that Ardrossan's economy is already being hit hard by the loss of the Arran ferry to Troon.

The West Scotland Conservative MSP raised a question at Holyrood on Tuesday, in the wake of the latest issues to hit the ferry route.

Meanwhile, the Ardrossan Harbour upgrade - which will allow CalMac's two new ferries to use the port - remains in limbo.

And transport secretary Fiona Hyslop admitted the partners involved, including harbour owners Peel Ports, have still not sorted out who pays for what.

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Mr Greene told the Scottish Parliament: “One issue that I do want to raise is the effect this is having on the economy of Ardrossan. It’s an issue we don’t talk enough about.

“Tens of thousands of passengers are trafficking through Troon, and not Ardrossan, and that’s having a substantial effect on local businesses and the local economy.

"The whole port infrastructure is crumbling as well because even when the Glen Sannox does enter service on the Arran route, it will operate out of Troon and not Ardrossan.

“Is it for weeks, is it months or years. Is it forever?

“That’s the problem. The people of Ardrossan simply don’t know. The government decided to build a ferry which is not fit for purpose for the port  from which it is intended to operate. Unbelievable.

“What does the minister have to say to those local businesses across North Ayrshire who are actually the by product of such catastrophic handling by this government?"

Ms Hyslop said: “I think the focus on business is important, particularly for the Isle of Arran. There were measures taken as part of the budget to improve the situation, for example business rates for hospitality businesses.

“He is talking about issues on the mainland in terms of port support. Part of that economic impact is the work that’s going on in North Ayrshire Council to finalise the business development plan.

“The frustration with the business plan is there are still outstanding key aspects of legal and commercial negotiations that need to be resolved.

“I would urge all parties to work my officials at Transport Scotland to find an expedient and beneficial conclusion to allow the business case to be finalised because what that will do is help provide that greater certainty."