An in-demand ferry will not be returning to the Mallaig to Armadale route this summer, a north MSP has been informed.
David Stewart MSP has received a letter from transport minister Humza Yousaf confirming the decision that MV Coruisk will remain on the Oban to Craignure route this summer.
It follows calls from the community and local businesses on Skye to restore the boat to their route.
CalMac confirmed it had no plans to change the arrangement earlier this month.
In Mr Yousaf’s letter he stated: “CalMac have looked at all feasible options to move the MV Coruisk back to Skye this summer. However, regrettably, none of these are possible without creating serious operational impacts on other communities.
“CalMac have published a revised tidal timetable that takes account of tidal restrictions.
“While I accept this doesn’t offer a consistent timetable, I have been assured that reliability has been much improved.”
The transport minister added that meeting will now be held with campaign group the Sleat Transport Forum, CalMac and local politicians, while the ferry operator will also pursue dredging of Mallaig Harbour.
Mr Stewart said: “The minister has already agreed to meet me in relation to the Northern Isles ferry contract and I will raise the issue of the Coruisk yet again.
“I am also planning to meet representatives of Sleat Transport Forum next month.
“The minister has raised a positive note – that there has been a growth in traffic stimulated by the introduction of RET fares – which I hope bodes well for finding a solution which satisfies the community, businesses and tourism operators.”