Further delay to MV Loch Shira return to Cumbrae ferry route

MV Loch Shira, which usually serves on the route, has been out of service since early April for repairs to both of the ship's vehicle ramps.

Caledonian MacBrayne initially said it was hoped the ferry would be back in service by mid-June.

But the Cumbrae Ferry User Group (CFUG) says it's been told by CalMac that that date will not be met.

The Loch Shira was withdrawn from service on April 5, with CalMac saying that damage to the two vehicle ramps was the result of the large number of heavy commercial vehicles travelling on the route in recent months.

The route has been covered by a succession of smaller vessels since then, including MVs Loch Bhrusda, Loch Tarbert, Loch Riddon and Isle of Cumbrae, prompting warnings from CalMac around reduced capacity and the potential for longer wait times - as well as pleas, from both CalMac and community groups on Cumbrae, for people to continue to visit the island, but to do so on foot.

A CFUG spokesperson said: "We have been advised today that unfortunately the Loch Shira will not be back in service for some weeks yet, probably early July.

"During the dry dock repairs, further damage to the vessel has been discovered.

"Separately, the Loch Bhrusda is still to get a minor repair.

MV Loch Bhrusda (Image: Newsquest)

"Please note that the Loch Bhrusda will be replaced by the Loch Linnhe today and Thursday to allow for a minor outstanding repair to be carried out.

"The Bhrusda should be back in service for the weekend."

Replacement parts for MV Loch Shira had to be manufactured in, and delivered from, Poland.

The vessel is now docked at Troon, where work is under way on fitting the replacement parts, though these will have to be tested before the ferry is able to return to service.

Finlay MacRae, Head of Operations for CalMac, said: “MV Loch Shira is currently in dry dock undergoing ramp repairs since being removed from service on 5 April. An inspection this week has revealed further damage to the main deck and unfortunately, this will extend the time that the vessel will require to be off service.

“A repair plan has been agreed and the estimated date for the vessel to leave dry dock is early July, but we are exploring options to reduce this timeline. In the meantime, a two-vessel service will continue to operate on the Largs-Cumbrae route. Customers will be informed of any updates as we receive them.”