A representative of the Cumbrae Ferry Users group has warned that the introduction of the Road Equivalent Tariff (RET) will have ‘massive’ implications for transport in Millport AND Largs.

The introduction of RET in October will bring positive economic benefits with more people visiting the island due to the reduced ferry fares.

However, Bill Steele, owner of the Fintry Bay Cafe, has said there needs to be a co-ordinated approach in preparation for the rise in traffic, with increased queues at the ferry seen as a strong possibility.

Mr Steele said: “In Arran, you see that there are 50% more cars - that is a massive amount for Arran. We are having a meeting on the island involving island groups and businesses, and looking at the best way forward, and how we best manage the whole thing. It will help in making Millport a 12 month round destination as it will be easier to get to but we need to look at the massive implications of that.” Mr Steele added that it would not just be on Cumbrae, but there would also be additional traffic waiting to get on board the ferry at the Largs end.

If you want any points addressed at the RET meeting, please email fintrybay@aol.com