The Isle of Cumbrae has been hit with a tourism bodyblow by the news that the Waverley can no longer come into Millport Pier until major repairs are carried out.

It has been described as a ‘bombshell’ by the Cumbrae Tourist Association who are having an urgent meeting to discuss the way forward.

The arrival of the world’s oldest paddlesteamer twice weekly on the island is a major draw for tourism, and brings a vital boost to the local economy, with timetables and posters having already printed for the forthcoming season with details about arriving at Millport Pier. The ‘News’ understands that because of the severe winter storms, the extent of the damage to the pier has proved to be overwhelming, and far in excess of initially thought.

Current access arrangements to the pier will remain for foot traffic, Clyde Estuary fishing vessels including sporadic visits by ‘puffer’ vessels, and some leisure and small craft, although some will not be able to berth at low tides as the low landing point is cordoned off, pending repair.

Following a recent structural survey, North Ayrshire Cabinet councillors were told during an urgent update last week that the timber section of the pier has been singled out as a particular problem, and to maintain its operational status, requires an £850,000 investment. Another £125,000 per year is required after that for maintenance.

When told by the 'News', Mr Ken Mapes, Treasurer of the Cumbrae Tourist Association, said: “Good grief - this is a bombshell. The Waverley brings a massive amount of business, and is a big influence on the island. As well as a facility for the island, it is also used by islanders for trips going away. It will be sorely missed. This is the first time I have heard anything about this.

“It seems crazy that the report has only been done now or viewed now. We have had lots of storms historically. We now need to look forward to get an action plan as fast as possible, and hopefully the money that is set aside for repairs will go towards its replacement. The breakwater is probably the ulimate answer but it doesn’t help us in the meantime.” One possible alternative would be the pier at the Millport Marine Station, now owned by the Field Studies Council , but Mr Mapes pointed out that while it used to be used by paddlesteamers, it has since been rebuilt. “It is a private pier,” said Mr Mapes, “but I am sure FSE would be interested if they could help in any way. It is not idea, but it would be better than nothing, if it was possible. One of the big things about the Waverley coming to the Pier is the vista coming into Millport - the Waverley have always appreciated Millport’s efforts in receiving them.” The NAC Cabinet previously supported the preferred long-term option to demolish the timber section, repair the masonry section and create a 60m breakwater and pontoons at a cost of £1.97m, and funding avenues are being looked into by the council, but until a full survey is completed and action plan developed, all vessels in excess of 100 tonnes, including the Waverley, are prohibited. Vehicle access is also prohibited from the pier.

The Cabinet have also rubberstamped a survey of the masonry section of the pier.