25 January 2008
SPT to fund marine survey
SPT is spending £30,000 on a sea bed survey which could lead to a regular ferry service in the Clyde estuary.
The technical survey will look into the possibility of providing pontoons on the sea bed at Arrochar and Lochgoilhead, which could enable a regular marine service between the two places – and others – in the Clyde estuary.
Local authorities in the Strathclyde area were invited to apply for funding for transport projects from SPT’s capital budget for 2007/08. SPT assessed the applications and then more than £4.8m to a number of projects across the region, including this funding which will go to Argyll and Bute Council.
The marine survey will take place at the site of the former steamer piers at Arrochar and Lochgoilhead. The famous Paddle Steamer Waverley last visited the pier at Arrochar in August 1972.
SPT Chair, Councillor Alistair Watson said: “This is important feasibility work for what could be an exciting project to bring a new ferry service to the Clyde estuary.
"Any new service would hugely benefit access to the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, tourism and the economy of the area and we look forward to being involved in the longer term development of this project.”
SPT member, Argyll and Bute councillor Duncan MacIntyre welcomed the study, saying: “The Clyde estuary and the redevelopment of its huge potential is starting to unfold and we are delighted that SPT have included this technical study in their programme.”
ends