Kintyre needs a modern connectivity system

Sir, The Scottish Government is seeking views on the proposed future Glasgow to Campbeltown air service prior to it being retendered. I have discussed this specific issue with friends and we have concerns about the current unreliable ferry, air services and road link. We believe we should receive at the very least the same air service as provided to the island of Islay. We have the following thoughts on improvements to encourage new businesses to locate here and to promote tourism. We would like a larger Saab 2000 or equivalent aircraft that can land in more adverse weather conditions – we understand the economies of scale and suggest a service that can fly to Campbeltown and then on to Islay, back to Campbeltown and returning to Glasgow, or vice versa. We would like the reinstatement of the radar system to assist landings in adverse weather conditions. As there is a separate service between Islay and Edinburgh we suggest that Campbeltown should be included as we also have key tourist attractions such as distilleries and three fantastic 18-hole golf courses and high-standard accommodation. We would like to see the service continue with a timetable with low ticket prices to allow the full day in Glasgow for NHS appointments, business and shopping trips and the reinstatement of seven-days-a-week flights to enhance business and tourism. In addition, we want national advertising campaigns inclusive of timetables to promote the area for increased passenger numbers, including weekend breaks. These aspirations are very much in keeping with the council’s Community Plan/Single Outcome Agreement 2013/2023 in particular relating to National Policy Priorities i.e. economic recovery, growth and employment. We are also very much aware of organisations which have worked hard to promote the long-term outcomes in the community plan. The communities of Kintyre need a modern connectivity system, fit for purpose, if this area is to have any credibility in the big wide world. Decent flight connections to Glasgow and Edinburgh would be a start. I have confirmed the Scottish Government is collecting views and if you would like to help improve our air service and have comments or suggestions, I urge you to email them to: Michael.Bratcher@transport.gov.scot

Andrew Hemmings, Sound of Kintyre, Machrihanish.