New ferry will boost property and tourism says Clyde
March 2006
LEADING estate agency Clyde has welcomed news that the Government has not given up on its attempt to restart a ferry link with Campbeltown.
Clyde is marketing the Sound of Kintyre development at Machrihanish close to
Campbeltown.
It says a return of the ferry which ended in 1999 would 'undoubtedly boost property values' in the Kintyre Peninsula including Sound of Kintyre.
Meanwhile, May will see the start of another ferry service by Irvine-based ferry operator Kintyre Express. It will link Troon and Campbeltown and sail three times a week.
Clyde says the development is highly welcome for both Ayrshire and Kintyre and is the first time the Ayrshire coast has been linked by ferry to Campbeltown since the heyday of the Clyde steamers in the 1960s and 70s.
This week Transport Minister Tavish Scott told the Scottish Parliament that the Executive's failed attempt to find a bidder to operate the route between Campbeltown and Ballycastle in Northern Ireland was not the end of the matter.
He told MSPs: "A ferry service linking Campbeltown and Ballycastle would create new opportunities for business and tourism".
'This devolved government is committed to working with our colleagues in the Northern Ireland administration, as well as both local communities, to try and identify potential ferry operators who could restore this important link between Scotland and Northern Ireland.'
The Scottish Executive in co-operation with the Northern Ireland administration initiated a tendering exercise in 2005 for a subsidised contract to operate a passenger and vehicle ferry service between Campbeltown and Ballycastle in Antrim. The Executive said it was 'disappointed' no tenders were received.
Clyde Chairman Bill Cullens said: 'The local economy around Campbeltown would benefit hugely if the ferry service to Northern Ireland were restored and, of course, this would in turn impact on property prices in the area which currently offer incredible value for money.'
Mr Cullens gave, as an example, The Sound of Kintyre development, which offers a range of luxury homes - many of which have breathtaking sea views. Their beautiful location has proved immensely popular with buyers. Half of the 22 detached and semi detached homes on the development are now sold or under reservation.
Notes to Journalists:
Clyde is Scotland's largest independent estate agency. It has offices in Glasgow's West End, South side, Hamilton, Stirling and Bearsden and Ayr. Further information from Ross Wilson, PR Consultant to Clyde tel 07768 280021 at any time or email ross.wilson1@ntlworld.com.