The passenger access system (PAS) at Craignure Ferry Terminal has been taken out of service today (4 February 2021) by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) for health and safety reasons.

An engineering inspection report has highlighted a technical problem that could create a potential safety issue.  For that reason, CMAL has taken the decision to remove it from operation immediately.

The CalMac ferry service will continue to run to the current timetable, but foot passengers will have to embark and disembark using the linkspan.

Ramsay Muirhead, director of port infrastructure and planning at CMAL, said:

“Safety is always our top priority and we do not hesitate to remove infrastructure from service when there are potential safety risks to passengers, crew or harbour staff.  Ferry services will be able to continue.

“Our priority now is to work with specialist engineers to identify a technical solution to repair the issue.  I can’t say at this stage how long it will take, but we will work closely with the harbour owner, Argyll and Bute Council, and CalMac to seek a solution that may enable the PAS to be operated again.”

Councillor Rory Colville, policy lead for roads and infrastructure services, said:

“Our priority is to work together closely to keep services running as smoothly as possible while solutions that may allow the PAS to be operated are explored. We support CMAL’s decision to put the safety of passengers, crew and harbour staff first.”

Craignure Ferry Terminal is owned by Argyll and Bute Council and operated by CalMac, although CMAL has owned the PAS infrastructure for several years.


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