The best option for managing Oban Bay is through a trust port, a survey has found.
Now Oban Bay Management Group (OBMG) is exploring the opportunity for a trust to be established as the single harbour authority.
It follows an unpopular proposal by the group for CMAL (Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited), the government body which owns the ferries and terminal, to take control of the entire harbour.
Having one authority in charge of the harbour would improve safety in the busy bay and enhance its commercial viability, it has been agreed.
More than 550 people completed the online survey and voiced their opinions at a public meeting last month.
Many people expressed the need for a management body that is representative of all of the users of the bay and considers the wider economic and community benefits of the harbour. Most respondents, 63 per cent, stated the most suitable body to manage the bay is a trust port.
OBMG will now explore this option while continuing to progress the early work necessary either for a trust port or extension of an existing harbour area.
A public meeting will take place on Thursday, September 6, at 7.30pm at the Corran Halls, Oban to update the public on the harbour authority arrangements.
Lorna Spencer, chairwoman of OBMG said: “We have previously stated our support for a trust port and we agree that it is the most appropriate long-term arrangement. However, it needs to be initiated by interested individuals and groups.
“The members of the OBMG are unable to pursue the trust port option as there would be conflicts of interest with their current operational responsibilities. We are willing to assist a viable stakeholder group and we encourage those with an interest to come forward now.
“In the interim, while a trust port option is explored, we will continue to do the preparatory work needed for any harbour authority. The option of CMAL extending its harbour area remains on the table should a trust organisation not emerge or proves unviable.”
James Allan, chief executive of RYA Scotland, said: “A single harbour authority is the only realistic solution to managing safety in the Oban Bay area and we have maintained from the outset that a trust port is the only option that can fully engage stakeholders without a substantial conflict of interest arising.
“We believe the local community of the Oban Bay area can step up to this opportunity and we are ready to work with the community and the Oban Bay Management Group to secure a positive future for all interested parties.”