Ferry News Archive
Dutch firm linked with Rosyth Euro-ferry service
Date: 25 Jul 2008 00:00 Source: www.dunfermlinepress.comRosyth's Euro-ferry could be set for a late reprieve with speculation growing that a rescue deal is on the cards.
Talks between the Scottish Government, Forth Ports and a potential operator have been going on this week in a bid to make sure the Zeebrugge service continues when Superfast pulls out in September.
However, the Press understands the negotiations have been progressing well but some significant hurdles remain.
These include issues as fundamental as the suitability of the vessel and funding packages and so things could still fall through.
However, if agreement is reached, the major operator involved – believed to be based in Holland – will be in place to offer a freight and passenger service in September.
It is understood that the deal would also see a second vessel added to the service next year, which would allow a return to a daily service operating between Rosyth and the Belgian port.
With haulage operators already looking at alternative routes, the pressure is increasing to let customers know where they stand.
It is now expected that an announcement will be made some time in the next week.
Rosyth SNP councillor Douglas Chapman told the Press yesterday (Wednesday), “I was speaking to Stewart Stevenson (transport minister) today and he seems fairly confident the service will continue.
“However, everybody’s keeping very tight-lipped at the moment until there’s something to announce.
“I know that Alex Salmond is still keeping a very close interest in how things are progressing.”
Mr Chapman and SNP MEP Alyn Smith met with representatives of Forth Ports at Rosyth on Friday.
Mr Smith said afterwards, “The omens from the European Commission are very, very positive and I’m working closely with Fife Council, Scottish Government – frankly anybody – to access as much EU support into any operator coming in and out of Rosyth as possible.
“The important thing is to make sure that we have a service coming out of Rosyth for freight and passengers and I feel very positive about it.”
A spokesman for Forth Ports said, “Discussions are on-going with a number of potential operators and we remain hopeful of identifying a suitable replacement for Superfast.”
Shetland businessman John White told the Press that he had heard no more this week about his bid to run a ferry service linking Rosyth with Norway and Zeebrugge.
He is expecting a decision on EU funding any day but also wants to expand the project to provide a more regular service to and from Rosyth.
“I’ve still heard nothing so it’s still a case of wait and see I’m afraid,” said Mr White.
MSP Jim Tolson said, “While talks are going on everybody in West Fife will be hoping that the service continues in September and we’re hoping for good news soon.
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