AYRSHIRE MSP Kenneth Gibson has gained clarification on concerns that sailors could be charged to sail on the Clyde.

Mr Gibson stated that a number of Largs constituents have been in touch regarding the controversial measure which appeared in a leaked proposal.

Peel Ports Clydeport - the port authority on the Clyde ultimately owned by English property management firm The Peel Group - has discussed implementing the controversial fee, according to the document.

Entitled 'Leisure Vessel Conservancy Fee', the document outlines the proposal to impact a £100 yearly charge (or £75 just for the summer) on all boats from six to 24 metres which are moored or berthed within the Clydeport area.

Mr Gibson is taking this to the Scottish Government to ask them to outline their position with regards to the suggested levy, and has received a response from the cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP.

She said: “Firstly, I must highlight that Scottish ports are deemed to be commercial entities; therefore, it is not possible for the Scottish Government to dictate business decisions made by a harbour authority on how best to manage its harbour or utilise its resources.

“Statutory Harbour Authorities such as Peel Ports have a power under section 26 of the Harbours Act 1964 to levy such ship, passenger or goods dues as they think fit, subject to any exemptions.

“Competent harbour authorities also have the ability to make reasonable charges in respect of the pilotage services provided by them under section 10 of the Pilotage Act 1987.

“Part of the consideration of whether a fee is set at an appropriate level is whether there are comparable to charges at other statutory port authorities, and I note that Peel Ports detailed similar charges at other Scottish ports.

“The importance of dues to the viability of ports and harbours is widely recognised. However, it is appreciated that the levying of such dues can have a significant impact.

“If users are unhappy with the terms of their charges, it is recommended that they discuss their issues directly with the port authority to attempt to find a satisfactory solution.”

In response, Mr Gibson told the News: "I note that the transport secretary has stated that it is at the discretion of harbour authorities to introduce such charges.

"Nevertheless, her comments provide some clarification on where leisure craft owners stand.

"I have no doubt that the strength of feeling against this suggested levy will be made clear to Peel Ports if they attend the cross-party group on recreational boating, to which they have been invited, on November 26."