Ferry future in focus as parties outline Campbeltown commitments

In a statement, the committee said the ferry is “vital to the economy of Campbeltown and Kintyre”, pointing to increased tourism during years when the service operated. 

It also highlighted ongoing disruption on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful as a factor affecting road access to the area.

The group said it was “pleased” that some parties had included specific references to the route in their election manifestos, while others made broader commitments on ferry services and infrastructure.

The Scottish Greens’ manifesto includes a commitment to “reinstate the ferry route from Ardrossan to Campbeltown” as part of wider proposals on public ownership and decarbonisation of ferry services.

The Scottish Liberal Democrats also refer directly to the route, pledging to “restore the seasonal link between Campbeltown and Ayrshire” and to assess the potential for a year-round service. 

Their manifesto also proposes a long-term strategy for ferry and port infrastructure and expanded compensation for disruption.

Other parties outline broader plans for Scotland’s ferry network without specific mention of Campbeltown.

The SNP manifesto highlights ongoing investment in vessels and ports, and proposes reforms to governance of west coast ferry services to improve accountability and efficiency.

Scottish Conservative proposals include a new procurement strategy aimed at renewing the fleet more quickly and reducing the average age of vessels, alongside structural changes to ferry operations.

Reform UK has proposed a 10-year ferry renewal programme to improve reliability across the network, alongside changes to ferry pricing structures.

While the ferry directly serves Campbeltown, the committee noted that many passengers travel onward to Mid Argyll, suggesting the route has a wider regional role. It also pointed to the potential importance of a sea link during periods when the A83 is disrupted.

Although there had previously been suggestions a limited summer service might be possible, no interim sailings have been confirmed for 2026 and no bookings have opened.

With the election approaching, campaigners say they will continue to press for firm commitments on the route’s long-term future.