ARGYLL and Bute Council’s transport policy lead has said he is happy to meet with Kilcreggan residents to discuss their concern over the future of the village’s pier and ferry service.

Councillor Andrew Kain made the pledge after another councillor claimed that the issue was causing “a great deal of concern” for residents anxious over the future of Kilcreggan's ferry link with Gourock.

Councillor Fiona Howard (Labour, Helensburgh Central), who lives in neighbouring Cove, also claimed that the process would not be as simple as Councillor Kain may think.

In a report circulated before a full council meeting on Thursday, April 27, Councillor Kain, an independent representing the Oban South and the Isles ward, had said that the preferred option for the council was to build a pontoon to the west of the existing pier to accommodate new, larger ships earmarked for the Kilcreggan-Gourock and Dunoon-Gourock services.

That has concerned residents in Kilcreggan - partly because of the visual impact they fear the new structures will have, and partly because of the long-term implications for the Victorian wooden pier used by the current ferry.

Some residents have also accused the council of not properly consulting the Kilcreggan community.

Under the council's plans, the Victorian pier will be retained - but only for leisure and recreational use.

He also said: “Ferry users need reliable vessels; they need certainty that crossings will run; and our preferred option means that can happen. Not only that, this design will help bring economic opportunities to the area for years to come.”

Councillor Howard asked at the meeting: “People feel they have not been properly consulted, and have not had a chance to speak to anybody involved in the project.

“Would Councillor Kain be prepared to have a discussion with me, and perhaps come to the village to have a discussion?”

Councillor Kain responded: “I am very happy to meet with Councillor Howard, and perhaps it is worth putting in a little bit of context. I understand it has been a complete emotional rollercoaster for many people.

“There are historical issues with the ferries, but we have to work. In the meantime, Transport Scotland is determined it will be three vessels on this route.

“It is going to be passenger vessels and it needs to have a lifespan of at least 50 years. Kilcreggan pier does not have that and it cannot be converted to something suitable for these vessels.

“I will discuss this further with Councillor Howard and meet with residents.”

Councillor Howard then said: “I think you will find it is not as simple as that, but thank you for your agreement.”