Residents protest as Ardrossan's ferries are delayed and too large for the harbour

Ardrossan, a coastal town in Scotland, has been facing significant challenges related to its ferry service to the Isle of Arran, prompting locals to protest the prevailing circumstances. The ongoing 'ferry fiasco' involves two new vessels that not only cost four times their initial price but also faced severe delays, with one vessel delivered seven years late. These complications culminated in both ferries being too large for the harbour where they are supposed to dock, causing a dire impact on local businesses dependent on ferry traffic. Christine Cowie, representing Save Ardrossan Harbour, has expressed her incredulity at the situation, noting that it has turned the town into a 'ghost town'. Businesses in Ardrossan rely heavily on the influx of visitors, including those traveling to access services unavailable on the Isle of Arran, such as dental care. With ferry services disrupted, local commerce has suffered, leading to fears about prolonged economic downturns for the area. In response to these developments, members from Arran have joined the protests in Ardrossan, voicing their frustrations and calling for an urgent resolution to the ferry service crisis. The Scottish government has acknowledged the community's concerns, expressing its commitment to explore options for purchasing Ardrossan Harbour to secure a future for the ferry services. Port director Jim McSporran of Peel Ports Clydeport stated that they remain prepared to invest in improving the harbour. Therefore, despite impediments faced in launching the new ferries, efforts continue to safeguard this important transport link for Ardrossan and Arran.