Nwicker60
29-Apr-13, 13:15
Replacement to Hamnavoe must be a priority - convener
THE ferry service between Orkney and Scrabster is out of action due to mechanical problems.
The Hamnavoe has suffered a broken crankshaft problem and could be out of action for weeks as opposed to days.
Operator Serco Northlink has said there are no plans to bring in one of its other two ferries as a replacement.
This leaves Pentland Ferries as the sole operator across the firth, sailing from Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope.
Orkney Island Council convener Steven Heddle said: "We have discussed the situation with Serco NorthLink Ferries at the highest level and we are also in contact with the Scottish government. We have made it clear that the council expects alternative arrangements to be put in place on the Stromness-Scrabster route as a matter of urgency."
He said there must not be an extended break in service on the route and added: "So far as the council is concerned, that would be totally unacceptable."
THE ferry service between Orkney and Scrabster is out of action due to mechanical problems.
The Hamnavoe has suffered a broken crankshaft problem and could be out of action for weeks as opposed to days.
Operator Serco Northlink has said there are no plans to bring in one of its other two ferries as a replacement.
This leaves Pentland Ferries as the sole operator across the firth, sailing from Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope.
Orkney Island Council convener Steven Heddle said: "We have discussed the situation with Serco NorthLink Ferries at the highest level and we are also in contact with the Scottish government. We have made it clear that the council expects alternative arrangements to be put in place on the Stromness-Scrabster route as a matter of urgency."
He said there must not be an extended break in service on the route and added: "So far as the council is concerned, that would be totally unacceptable."