A report to yesterday’s meeting of the Harbour Board outlined various marine services projects being progressed by the council now including a long-term plan for a new terminal and marshalling area at Craignure, new pontoon in the inner harbour area at Rothesay Harbour as well as piling and grouting works, and breakwaters and an overnight berthing facility at Iona and Fionnphort.

The council runs 39 ports and harbours. Its Asset Management Plan covers a rolling ten-year period, and in addition to initiatives in progress, includes projects in development.

The report provides progress updates on infrastructure and passenger-service improvement projects in Dunoon, Kilcreggan, Port Askaig and Craignure.

Councillor Rory Colville, chair of the Harbour Board, said: “Argyll and Bute’s geography asks services from its council that many other councils do not deliver – operating ports and harbours is a prime example. The asset management plan highlights the tremendous amount of effort, and investment that goes into providing these vital services.”