Ardrossan Harbour Purchase Finalised
The Scottish government's ferries and ports agency is set to complete the purchase of Ardrossan harbour this month, according to an announcement by the transport secretary.
Fiona Hyslop confirmed that negotiations between Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) and the current owner, Peel Ports, have concluded, resulting in the harbour being transferred to public ownership.
Reason for Acquisition
The government has been compelled to acquire the harbour because the new CalMac ferries ordered by CMAL for the Arran route are too large to dock safely at the existing facilities, necessitating significant redevelopment of the harbour.
Details of the Deal
While Hyslop did not disclose the financial terms of the sale, she described the negotiations as "complex" and emphasized that the acquisition would deliver "wider benefits" to ferry services over the long term.
CMAL, which is wholly owned by the Scottish government, required a "shareholder directive" to its board to finalise the transaction, Hyslop revealed.
Future of Ferry Services
Hyslop stated that Ardrossan port will continue to serve as the primary port for ferry services connecting the mainland to Arran.
Ongoing Updates
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