FERRY operator CalMac have been told to come up with 'creative solutions' to provide a greener way of getting more people back and forward to Millport.

That is one of the demands made as North Ayrshire Council looks to create a role for a new islands officer who will be working with the firm to explore ways to increase ferry capacity and ensure economic recovery in 'a safe and sustainable way'.

The council also says that ticketing systems for ferry journeys should prioritise those that will contribute to the economic and social recovery of the island.

As well as tackling the travel issues that saw islanders stranded on the mainland and services halted due to over capacity, the new person will also work on other Cumbrae specific projects in a bid to boost trade and tourism.

It will also look to address geographical remoteness, poor connectivity and other demographic issues further hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Councillor Alex Gallagher hailed the three year pilot scheme as 'groundbreaking'.

Cllr Gallagher said: "We will now have an officer whose sole responsibility is to work through local government and other local and national agencies, in partnership with island communities and businesses, to support the implementation of the Islands Act and the National Islands Plan.

“We have already been working with groups there and we aim to provide a ten-year plan for Cumbrae, based on our community wealth building principles and the council's green approach to sustainable economies."

The new position will also concentrate on community wealth building - aimed at keeping monies and funding opportunities and services within the district - and greener initiatives to combat climate change, such as reducing car congestion during busy summer months.

The total cost of the Islands Recovery and Renewal pilot project developed in partnership with the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise is £250,000 which will be co-funded by the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and North Ayrshire Council.

A small project budget is part of this total to cover costs associated with events, communications, consultancy support and other project related expenses.

The council’s contribution of £130,000 will be incorporated in the council’s recovery and renewal planning through 2020/21.