A poll has revealed the majority of locals on the Ardnamurchan peninsula would be in favour of a bridge or a tunnel replacing the current ferry shuttle service operating from Corran to Ardgour.
The online survey, which has so far generated more than 350 votes, indicated yesterday that 61% favoured a bridge or a tunnel over replacing the ferry fleet.
Acharacle native Willie Cameron, who had to move from the area to be closer to medical resources, set up the poll as a way to gauge opinion on the issue which arises “every couple of years”.
He said: “For decades now we have been hearing of options to deliver a bridge to replace the ferry but it always seems to disappear.
“A bridge should have been built long ago. It would provide access that would open up the whole area and would encourage businesses and enterprise to come in.”
Mr Cameron believes enhanced access would allow locals to remain in the area rather than leave to seek further education or employment.
Local councillor Andrew Baxter said he feels a fixed link may be delivered in the long term, but accepted many may be opposed as it could “change the way of life on the peninsula, so we have to make sure there are safeguards in place”.
Highland Council said “retaining two vessels is an overly expensive model” and an assessment study is underway to explore the future of the Corran Ferry crossing.