Scottish Government Reallocates £28M for Corran Ferry Replacement

The Scottish government has confirmed that £28 million, previously allocated for road improvements, will now be utilized to replace the struggling Corran Ferry service in Lochaber. This funding was initially designated for an upgrade of the Longman interchange on the A9, but local councillors appealed to the Scottish government to adjust its investment priorities. The council stated that there was a “critical” necessity for enhancements to the ferry service, which conducts 30,000 sailings annually, following extensive periods of unavailability last year. Finance Secretary Shona Robison has since approved the use of these funds for a new electric vessel, asserting that it would contribute to reducing carbon emissions. She further commented: “This funding will provide businesses and communities in Lochaber and Ardnamurchan with a reliable ferry service to enable them to thrive into the future. “The new service will support the area’s vibrant visitor economy to drive jobs and economic opportunities across the Corran Narrows.” The Corran Ferry service is recognized as Scotland’s busiest single-vessel ferry route, enabling drivers to avoid a 42-mile (67km) detour. Owned and operated by the council, the service transports over 270,000 cars each year, establishing an essential link for the peninsular communities of Ardgour, Sunart, Ardnamurchan, Moidart, Morar, Morvern, and the Isle of Mull. The existing ferry, MV Corran, was withdrawn for maintenance in October last year, resulting in delayed repairs and subsequent breakdowns of a replacement vessel. Funding for the new service will be provided through the £315 million Inverness and Highland City Region Deal. Additional investment for shoreside improvements will be financed by £20 million from the UK government and £10 million from the Highland Council. Councillor Raymond Bremner, the leader of the council, emphasized that the transport link is crucial for economic stability and growth in both Lochaber and the Ardnamurchan Peninsula. He remarked: “We have had to work really hard to come up with a sustainable solution to resolve the challenge that our ageing ferries running the route brings.“It is hoped that we can implement and deliver the supporting infrastructure and the new ferry as quickly as possible now that the funding streams have been finalised.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.