Forth Ports running out of time to find ferry operator
Ferry Online Travel News 07/07/2008
Forth Ports is seeking a new operator to ensure that Scotland does not lose its direct ferry link with the European cont
The port operator’s intent is to ensure a “seamless” transfer from the current operator on the Rosyth to Zeebrugge route when Attica discontinues service on the route on 13 September. Talks are currently being held with John White, a Shetland-based businessman, representing ShetlandNorwegian Norshukon. He has expressed interest in possibly taking over the route, which originally opened in 2002.
It seems that White and his group is unlikely to be ready to take over service when Attica pulls its Blue Star vessels off the route in two months time.
Scotland’s transport secretary, Stewart Stevenson, is supporting the Forth Ports-led initiative, and has recently addressed parliament on the issue: “Are companies interested in the route£ On the public record, I can say that John White of the Norshukon group has indicated an interest, and we are continuing discussions with it.
“We have approached everybody we can think of in this country and elsewhere. There are still options that may deliver a successful outcome.
“It will be extremely challenging to ensure there is no break in service — I want to manage expectations on that — but in the long term there will be opportunities.”
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