Q&A - Troon Harbour Project - November 2023
Project Update
Troon harbour, owned and operated by Associated British Ports (ABP) has been procured by the Scottish Government to support the operation of the Ardrossan-Brodick/Campbeltown ferry services when they are temporarily diverted to Troon Troon will also be used as an alternative mainland port to support CalMac services during any periods of disruption. .
A Troon working group exists to support this work and meets regularly. Members include: Associated British Ports, Transport Scotland, Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) and Caledonian Ferries Ltd (CalMac).
The Temporary Terminal Building is completed and CMAL as owners are in the process of signing the building over to CalMac to prepare for its use. The building and landside infrastructure is expected to be fully operational by end of November 2023. Additional drainage works are required and these will be ongoing until early 2024. CalMac will therefore engage with relevant parties should access to the building be impacted as a result of these works.
When did the works commence?
Marine works at the port commenced in July 2021 and completed in March 2022 consisting of new fenders and a suspended concrete deck; delivered by George Leslie Ltd in association with ABP and Transport Scotland.
When will services move to Troon?
The move to Troon will be triggered by the introduction of the MV Glen Sannox when deployed to the route.
The service continuity plans for when services temporarily relocate to Troon are being progressed by CalMac with input from community representatives.
As stated above, Troon may also be used as an alternative mainland port, therefore, services may operate to Troon on a temporary basis if this is deemed appropriate in order to maintain services across the wider ferry network.
What will the level of ferry services be at Troon?
Our aim is to provide as close to the current Ardrossan-Brodick/Campbeltown timetable where possible when operating out of Troon. However users should be aware that passage and turnaround times are expected to be longer during operation, up to 15-20 (passage time) and 55 minutes(turnaround time).
A preferred timetable has been developed. However no final decision has been undertaken regarding service levels; the timetables will recognise the demand on the service. We continue to engage with IOAFC on this matter.
What about passengers facilities at Troon?
The landside infrastructure required to operate services will include facilities, such as a temporary terminal building, shuttle bus service, car parking, marshalling area and public toilets.
Connectivity for onward travel is a key component including integration with other modes which is being developed as part of the service continuity plans.
CMAL on behalf of Transport Scotland has completed the delivery of the terminal building and are engaging with CalMac for operational usage of the building.
How long is the walk from the terminal building to the bus stop and car park?
From the bottom of the vessel gangway at Troon to the first bus pick up point (no stairs) is about 145metres and just 110metres if you are walking up the linkspan
From the passenger terminal to the car park this is about a five minute walk or 700 metres
Bus stop pick up points at the main car park take you directly to the terminal building.
The width of the passenger walkways are 1.5m thus allowing adequate space for users with luggage/prams etc
What consideration has been given to notifying travellers of the ferry service when it operates out of Troon?
As part of service continuity planning, the public consultation will help shape the service from Troon and any service changes required.
This will be done in advance of the service moving to Troon to ensure that it is communicated as widely as possible.
In addition to support the service, shuttle-bus services will also be available from Ardrossan to Troon and between Troon railway station and port.
CalMac are currently evaluating the tender bids for the shuttle bus provision and will submit these to Transport Scotland for approval in the coming weeks
The working group is also engaging with Ayrshire Road Alliance and ScotRail regarding traveller information.
How will the MV Glen Sannox be fuelled at Troon and how long with this take?
There are no plans for a permanent LNG facility at Troon therefore re-fuelling will be done directly from HGV tanker to vessel. CalMac, as operator will lead this operation and will ensure it is conducted as per safety and HSE protocols.
This operation is being accounted for within the timetable development whereby minimising any disruption to services where practicable.
When will Troon become fully operational?
It is expected that Troon port will become fully operational by end November 2023 as opposed to Spring 2023 as this is dependent upon completion of a number of elements such: landside works, CalMac fit out of the building.
Is there an update on the works at Troon railway station?
The refurbishment works to Troon railway station are led by Network Rail and a contractor was recently appointed. Works are expected to be completed by Summer 2024
CalMac have been, and will continue to engage with Network Rail and ScotRail regarding the station works including station access as part of the service continuity planning for onward travel connections.
More information/webpage links
Site visuals
Walking distances on site
