With the General Election behind us, I'm demanding that Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop stop announcing delays and provides concrete decisions on the Ardrossan-Brodick ferry's future.

After years of stalled progress and vague promises, it's time for clear, actionable action to address the pressing concerns of islands, businesses and the broader region.

The redevelopment of Ardrossan harbour, initially approved in 2018 to accommodate new Caledonian MacBrayne ferries, is now mired in significant delays.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has admitted that a crucial announcement on this redevelopment has been delayed yet again.

The new ferries, MVS Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa, now have to use Troon as their mainland port instead of Ardrossan.

For years, the future of Ardrossan as the port for the Brodick ferry route has been a contentious issue with unfulfilled promises. This route is the busiest in Scotland and a vital lifeline for islanders and the wider community. The case for Ardrossan is clear - it is the shortest, quickest, most direct route - which is why it has been the main route to Arran for 190 years.

Peel Ports, which owns and controls the land and also serves as the harbour authority, has been a major obstacle.

Ardrossan's ownership structure complicates negotiations and has significantly delayed the project over the last seven years. Even after a resolution was reached last year, following six years of delays since the 'decision' to proceed at Ardrossan, escalating costs have led to further delays. The MV Alfred relief vessel, controversial in its procurement, can now only operate from Troon due to the deterioration of the condition of the Irish berth.

The situation is dire. Losing the service would disrupt lives, affect supply chains, potentially render local train stations redundant and jeopardise businesses relying on the ferry connection.

It is imperative that Fiona Hyslop provides a definitive business case for the redevelopment, commits firmly to retaining the port, and thoroughly explores public ownership options. We need decisive action, not further delays.

The Scottish Government must act now to ensure that Ardrossan remains a vital and thriving port, serving both the islanders and the wider region.

The message is clear: no more empty promises. Ardrossan’s future - and the well-being of its community -depends on it.