'Bilge suction' problem extends delays to Corran ferry

The main vessel for the Corran Ferry crossing in Lochaber has failed to return to service as planned.

Highland Council's car ferry MV Corran left its route in October last year for maintenance work.

While in dry dock a problem was found with its propulsion system and delays have hit its return ever since.

The council had hoped the boat would be back this week, but a safety certificate was not issued due to a "bilge suction" issue.

The local authority said the problem had been fixed, but MV Corran would require a re-inspection by Maritime and Coastguard Agency surveyors, and also some further preparatory work.

The ferry is now expected to resume service the week starting 30 October.

Highland Council said the situation was "deeply disappointing" and thanked ferry staff for their hard work trying to get MV Corran back into service.

The local authority had previously hoped the boat would be back in July, then August before a new target was set for the middle of October.

The Corran Ferry is the busiest single-vessel ferry route in Scotland and carries more than 270,000 cars each year.

Currently a passenger-only service is available due to MV Corran being out of action and a breakdown which has affected the relief car ferry, MV Maid of Glencoul.

There has been significant disruption to the car ferry service already this year.

Between 15 April and start of June there was a limited passenger service after the MV Maid of Glencoul broke down.

People living in Fort William, Ardgour, Sunart, Ardnamurchan, Moidart, Morar, Morvern and the Isle of Mull are among those who regularly use the ferry service.

Alternative routes to the crossing can involve journeys of up to 86 miles (138km), depending on the destination.