Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne could be forced to close public access to Largs pier unless warnings to cease swimming off the pier are heeded.

During the summer months the ferry company operates services from the pier every fifteen minutes. CalMac is aware that the public enjoy access to the pier facility but recent incidents of near misses between ferry and swimmers may lead to closure of the pier if the swimming does not stop.   North Ayrshire Council, the owners of the promenade/sea wall, and the Coastguard Agency (MCA) have now been advised of the potential dangers and the possibility of closure. Local police are also being involved and have also been approached seeking assistance with stopping swimmers and others failing to heed company advice. 

Shirley Fraser, Route Manager on the Upper Clyde said: “We are pleased to operate the 15 minute service during the summer. However, this means continuous ferry activity at Largs pier.  No swimming, diving or fishing is allowed from, at or near the pier and inner harbour during ferry operations. It is simply too dangerous and we must do everything we can to prevent a tragedy.   Notices on pier advising of danger and prohibiting such activity must be obeyed. We will be increasing our staff presence on the pier and have advised the police of the problem. We will not hesitate to call them if members of the public continue to ignore the warnings and it will be for the police to take appropriate action. We would appeal to everyone to co-operate or we will be left with no option but to close off public access.”

The potential dangers of the working environment on any pier should not be underestimated and Caledonian MacBrayne will continue to take every step possible to prevent people endangering themselves or ships and customers by swimming, fishing or interfering with mooring lines and other equipment. 

Caledonian MacBrayne staff will continue to ask people to desist from undertaking any activity which is deemed dangerous to themselves and/or others and will call for police assistance where that advice is being ignored.  It is in everyone’s interests that the highest possible levels of safety are maintained on the pier and within the operating areas used by the ferry.

ends

For further information on the contents of this News Release, please contact Hugh Dan MacLennan, Public Affairs Manager, Caledonian MacBrayne.

Tel: 0776 435 4021; e-mail hugh.maclennan@calmac.co.uk

Issued:  Monday, July 21, 2003