Ferry operator CalMac has confirmed that with immediate effect, car parking in the vicinity of terminal buildings is to be restricted to people with mobility issues displaying appropriate documentation, and key personnel.

Managing Director Lawrie Sinclair said: “CalMac regrets having to take such a drastic step, but unfortunately in the current climate this is unavoidable. In many of our terminals, there are other designated parking areas in close proximity and I hope that customers will not be inconvenienced to a great degree. Where people have difficulty with their mobility and require to be dropped off, then we will do what we can to enable them to access our premises with the minimum of disruption. With immediate effect, however, car parking is restricted at Gourock, Ardrossan and Oban to areas which are well away from the building.”

CalMac has confirmed that the car parking changes are part of an ongoing review of security throughout the network. Mr Sinclair added: “There is no specific reason for our customers to be alarmed about what we are doing. We maintain a very high degree of vigilance and will use CCTV and increased announcements and inspections of vehicles to ensure that our fleet is as safe as possible. We would ask our customers to bear with us in these difficult times and to assist us with the reporting of anything suspicious. In the meantime, we will endeavour to operate our services with as little disruption as possible.”

CalMac regrets any inconvenience. Customers are advised to phone the port of departure before travelling to check the current arrangements. Customers are also advised to allow some more time for travelling while the changes are in effect.

Ends.

For further information on the contents of this News Release, please contact Hugh Dan MacLennan, Head of Communication and Customer Care.   Tel: 0776 435 4021; e-mail hugh.maclennan@calmac.co.uk.

Caledonian MacBrayne and CalMac are trading names of CalMac Ferries Limited

Issued: Monday, July 2, 2007 : 1600