Published: Thursday, 20th March, 2008 4:30pm

Transport plan KO is denied

by Russell Steele

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IN PORT: Cars board a CalMac ferry docked at Gourock.

KEY players behind the crucial Gourock transport interchange have scotched speculation it could hit the buffers.

Rumours are rife in the town suggesting the long-delayed project could be scrapped altogether.

Speculation is mounting that ferry operator CalMac will operate a passenger-only service in future — and campaigners fear that would be enough to see the interchange project abandoned and signal the end of the line for Gourock’s rail link.

Tom McKenzie, chairman of Cardwell Bay and Greenock West Community Council, said: “We have been hearing rumours on both sides of the water CalMac would be happy not to run their car ferry service.

“They would have a passenger service instead and Western Ferries would keep their car ferry at the Cloch. If that happened, Network Rail could decide there is no need to go ahead with the interchange.

“We could end up with trains terminating at Greenock West — we all know about the problems with the Fort Matilda tunnel.”

Mr McKenzie said there would be uproar if residents’ worst fears were realised.

He said: “All hell would break loose. It would be a horrendous thing for the community. The whole future of the Gourock regeneration is based on the interchange.”

But partners in the transport interchange insist it remains on track.

A spokesman for Transport Scotland said: “Transport Scotland is promoting delivery of the interchange and is working closely with Network Rail, Inverclyde Council, SPT, CalMac and other partners to progress the project.

“There is a strong commitment among the partners to deliver the best scheme we can while ensuring the interchange provides value for money.”

Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s regeneration convener, pictured, told the Tele: “We remain absolutely committed to the progression of the interchange.

“We’ve been working closely with lead partner, Transport Scotland, regarding the progression of design elements and assessment of options.

“At a recent meeting with the minister, we reiterated our position regarding the car/passenger ferry link from town centre to town centre.”

A spokesman for CalMac said: “There is no change in the interchange and we are monitoring the development. Gourock to Dunoon is entirely a matter for the Government and we are awaiting the minister’s decision.”

Meanwhile, Network Rail have insisted the Fort Matilda tunnel is in good order.

A spokesman said: “The tunnel had extensive work carried out on it in 1997. It is perfectly sound and in a very good state of repair.”