Corran Ferry – Options for a sustainable future

An Options Appraisal has been carried out to ensure a sustainable and resilient Corran Ferry Service for the next twenty to thirty years, and to identify options regarding investment, efficiency, reliability of service delivery, and fares. Members were invited to consider and discuss the Corran Ferry service options appraisal carried out by consultant firm, Peter Brett Associates Ltd on behalf of The Highland Council at today’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, Thursday 8th November 2018. As well as considering vessel and related infrastructure requirements, this analysis has set out the parameters to facilitate an informed debate within THC, as well as between THC and Transport Scotland as to the future delivery of the service.

Members agreed that the council should undertake further exploration of options in order to develop a preferred outline business case, which would include essential consultation with Transport Scotland, Members and other appropriate stakeholders, including potential vessel providers and operators.  

There will also be an analysis of the impact of any changes to fares structures and revenue and to users. Chair of The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Allan Henderson said: “This is a really comprehensive piece of work which gives us a very good basis for dialogue with Transport Scotland, stakeholders and service users. I am pleased that this is now being taken forward and I look forward to the development of a preferred solution.”

Chair of the Locahaber Committee Cllr Andrew Baxter added: “"The Corran Ferry is a lifeline service for many Lochaber residents, supporting a remote rural area of the Highlands. I welcome this as a significant step forward in securing a sustainable service for this vital crossing. It acknowledges the ferry's importance and the need for all future investment options to be considered.”      

8 Nov 2018