Council Leader welcomes Ardrossan Harbour announcement

Councillor Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, has welcomed confirmation that Ardrossan Harbour is to be nationalised.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop yesterday (3 March) announced that negotiations between Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) and harbour owner Peel Ports have now concluded, with the deal set to be wrapped up this month.

Councillor Gurney said: “It has been a long and sometimes fraught journey to reach this point but we are delighted with the announcement that the Scottish Government is to progress the purchase of Ardrossan Harbour.

“I spoke to Fiona Hyslop yesterday evening and there is a clear determination to ensure the harbour reaches its full potential.

“We have long campaigned for a revitalised harbour which will bring major financial and social benefits to communities on both sides of the Ardrossan to Brodick crossing.

“It is therefore hugely gratifying to know that the nationalisation of the harbour will be the trigger for much-needed investment in the harbour. The ripple effect of this investment will be felt throughout the area for many years to come as the harbour is a key part of our wider regeneration ambitions for the town.

“But the benefits will not only be felt in Ardrossan – improvements to the harbour will bring a more resilient ferry connection to Arran, which will be welcomed by both residents and businesses on the island.

“Now that we have certainty over the ownership of the harbour, we can plan with confidence for future and look forward to seeing the proposals take shape.”

Published: 04 March 2026