A NEW operator is set to take over the Gourock to Kilcreggan ferry service.

Greenock-based Clyde Marine, which previously ran the 13-minute sailing, will take back the reins from under-fire Clydelink from June.

Bosses from Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) are proposing to award the local firm a 12-month contract at an increased cost of £325,000 to steady the ship while discussions continue with Scottish Government agency Transport Scotland about assuming control of the route.

Clydelink took over from Clyde Marine in 2012 but the service has been blighted by cancellations, delays and a series of faults with the Island Princess boat ever since, particularly in recent months.

Fed-up passengers have mounted a campaign demanding a more reliable ferry.

The appointment of Clyde Marine is set to be made official on Friday by the organisation’s operations committee, chaired by Inverclyde councillor David Wilson.

He said: “I’m pleased that Clyde Marine will be taking it on.

“It represents good value for money from a recognised operator and I’m very pleased about the outcome of the tender.”

Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie, who represents the people of Kilcreggan, has led the ferry protests and invited campaigners to the Scottish Parliament last month for a debate on the service.

Transport minister Humza Yousaf has said on several occasions that he is keen for the government to take on the responsibility for the route in the longer-term.

Ms Baillie said: “The pressure from the community has successfully forced SPT to take action to improve the service.

“This new contract is a welcome step from SPT but we need action from the Scottish Government to secure a reliable and sustainable service for years to come.”