THE Scottish Government is set to intervene on plans for a Scotland to Europe ferry, marking a significant step forward in plans.
The proposed return of a direct ferry link between Scotland and mainland Europe, in the form of a route between Rosyth and the French port of Dunkirk, has been marred by delays in recent years.
There has been no direct ferry route from Scotland to Europe since April 2018, when the freight-only Rosyth-to-Zeebrugge service was withdrawn following a fire.
The National has reported that the ongoing delays are due to unresolved issues with a border control post (BCP) in Rosyth – caused by Brexit – along with continued funding delays, with calls for both the Scottish and UK governments to take action.
Now, the Scottish Government has confirmed the route could reopen under proposed changes in legislation, by allowing flexibility on the location requirements for a BCP.
Under current rules, food and agricultural products must undergo biosecurity checks at a BCP before entering Scotland from the European Union, and vice versa.
The existing port at Rosyth is unable to facilitate these checks – but they are in place at Grangemouth, just over 20 miles away.
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The proposed changes would allow products arriving from the EU to be docked at Rosyth, and then checked at the BCP in Grangemouth.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has already written to Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander confirming the Scottish Government’s intention to do everything in its power to remove obstacles to the project.
Forbes also called on the UK Government to confirm they are willing "to address at pace" the border control issues which remain reserved.
Officials have been instructed to prepare a consultation on the legislation, which is expected to be launched as soon as possible and before the Scottish Parliament is dissolved for next May's elections.
Commenting, Agriculture and Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie said: “This is a strategically important trade route for Scotland particularly for our agricultural sector and it is imperative that we do all we can to counter the negative impact we are experiencing to Scottish exports following our removal from the European Union.
“We will do all we can to ensure this direct freight and passenger ferry service to Europe is delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
Campaigners have said the first passengers could be sailing to France by spring next year, the Courier reports.
The National previously told how campaigners said Labour MPs in Fife, where the port is based, could help fund the ferry "as soon as tomorrow".
A UK Government spokesperson said: "Transport is a devolved matter in Scotland and while international ferry routes are primarily a commercial issue, we are in discussions with the proposed operator and the Scottish Government about options for helping move this proposal forward should the route be deemed viable.
"The UK Government is stepping up and is clearing a path for this vital route, including securing a trade deal with the EU that will remove red tape for Scottish businesses."
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