Progress on Ardrossan Harbour Acquisition
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is actively negotiating a ‘Heads of Terms’ agreement with the owner of Ardrossan Harbour, Peel Ports Group.
As the lifeline ferries and ports asset owner, CMAL had been formally authorised to engage with Peel Ports Group on the potential for a change of ownership by the Cabinet Secretary for Transport earlier this year and negotiations have now entered Heads of Terms for formal purchase discussion. Both CMAL and Peel Ports Group have constructively engaged in negotiations to date and have recently exchanged key principles on a Heads of Terms agreement.
This follows a review of the Ardrossan Harbour project in late 2024 with the key points now being discussed including the condition of physical assets, leases, access rights, and the process for transfer of Statutory Harbour Authority responsibilities.
A large part of the site has not been openly transacted since the late 19th Century and achieving a clean title in any transfer of ownership is essential to future ferry operations.
Scottish Government funding is allocated within the 2025-26 budget to facilitate the acquisition of the harbour, noting that any expenditure is subject to detailed legal, commercial and financial due diligence.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop said:
“A formal Heads of Terms Agreement is being negotiated for the acquisition of Ardrossan Harbour. That means CMAL has the formal authorisation to move towards conclusion of negotiations with the co-operation of Peel Ports Group.
“They are engaging with Peel Ports Group on the potential change of ownership. While this involves legally complex and commercially sensitive work, we know communities on both sides of the route are frustrated. We want to see the much needed investment in Ardrossan progressing faster, and it is good news that the key principles of a Heads of Terms Agreement have now been exchanged.”
Kevin Hobbs, CMAL CEO:
“Ensuring Scotland has a sustainable, safe and reliable ferry service is our priority.
“Ardrossan presents a complex set of circumstances, which require careful consideration. We have engaged our experienced staff, along with expert legal and commercial advisors, to ensure every aspect of the potential purchase of assets and the transfer of Statutory Harbour Authority responsibilities is thoroughly assessed.
“I look forward to productive discussions with Peel Ports Group in the coming weeks.”
Lewis McIntyre, Managing Director, Port Services, Peel Ports Group said:
“We very much welcome the latest announcement from Scottish Government and CMAL and we are hopeful that this progress will help to finally bring about a solution for the people of Arran and Ardrossan”
“Peel Ports Group has engaged with pace and urgency since the beginning of the negotiation process and our commitment to reaching a solution that works for all parties remains unwavering”