The Lochboisdale Ferry Users Group (LFUG) has expressed “extreme disappointment”
that a proposed Mallaig-
However, it is understood the proposed service could be introduced through a variation to the contract at a later date, if required.
Talks about possible options for a pilot summer service between South Uist and Mallaig, will be discussed in early talks between Transport Scotland, Cal Mac and the LFUG.
However, the lack of suitable sized vessels in the fleet and restrictions at Mallaig poses difficulties.
A LFUG spokesman said it would be "following up” absence of the proposed route in the tender the Transport Minister, Transport Scotland, Ferries Task force in a “bid to reverse this decision.”
The body said the 59% cancellation rate of the winter pilot trial has “proved that it was totally inappropriate to establish demand for a service.”
“It is clear therefore that there is no need to delay the review of the inclusion of the Lochboisdale to Mallaig service in the upcoming CHFS Contract, due for renewal in 2016, until the pilot has been concluded.”
A LFUG spokesman accepted a summer trial would be “challenging with current vessel availability (but) we believe there are options available.”
Disappointment proposed Mallaig route excluded from ferry tender
25 April 2015