PROBLEMS with navigational lights at Ardrossan Harbour are "deeply frustrating", Cunninghame North MSP Kenneth Gibson said today.

The SNP politician said repair of the system - which has already caused cancellations to early morning and evening sailings from Ardrossan to Arran - was "crucial".

Mr Gibson contacted Duncan Mackison, acting chief executive officer for CalMac, regarding the light at the harbour after ongoing issues over the last month.

He revealed numerous constituents raised their concerns over the last week.

Mr Mackison responded that the light had previously experienced a defect with its power supply but was returned to operational status on October 18.

However, on October 22, a new defect was reported at the same Aid to Navigation station.

This defect relates specifically to the light's lens, and as lenses in these lights are typically unique to each individual light, replacement is not straightforward.

As the light remains under warranty, it was returned to the manufacturer for repair. During this process, CalMac sought regular updates regarding its return.

A replacement unit was subsequently dispatched from the manufacturer's European base and has been delivered to the contractor of the Harbour Authority Peel Ports.

The installation of the new light, including a 48-hour testing period, is scheduled to take place ‘as soon as possible,’ though a completion date for the work has not yet been provided.

Mr Gibson said: "It is deeply frustrating that these issues with the navigational light at Ardrossan Harbour have caused considerable disruption.

“I welcome the steps being taken to resolve the problem, but it is crucial that this replacement is installed and tested without further delay.

“I trust that the new light will soon be operational and that services will swiftly return to normal."