The council is working with a group of project partners - Transport Scotland, CMAL, Peel Ports Group, CalMac and the Arran Ferry Committee - to complete a comprehensive upgrade and redevelopment of the Ardrossan Ferry Terminal.

The aim of the proposals is to improve the facilities and operations at Ardrossan to meet the additional capacity provided by the MV Glen Sannox.

The main landside works under discussion in the consultation include:

• Development of a modern-two-storey Terminal Building replacing the existing terminal
• A new Passenger Access System (PAS)
• Upgrading of both the marshalling and car park areas.

Members of the public are invited to view and comment on the draft plans which focus on the new terminal building, Passenger Access System and parking and marshalling facilities.

A separate consultation will be progressed separately on interim service arrangements for the temporary operation of the service from Troon once the Glen Sannox vessel comes into operation.

North Ayrshire Council leader Joe Cullinane said: “We know people are eager to see how the plans are shaping up for the ferry terminal so I’m delighted that residents will be able to see these for themselves and offer their thoughts. The proposals take into account learning from the development of the facilities at Brodick and feedback from users.

“We know that there is frustration among ferry users, particularly those on Arran who rely on the service, over delays to the new Glen Sannox and the harbour infrastructure. We hope progress on the new ferry can made as quickly as possible however it’s important to note that this consultation focuses on the Council-led landside proposals, which will provide the additional capacity to grow the number of passengers the route accommodates on what is one of Scotland’s busiest ferry routes.

“Improving capacity and resilience on the route is a priority for us given the importance of this to the Arran and Ardrossan communities. Please have a look and let us know your thoughts.”