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Corporate CalMac

Route Prioritisation Framework

Outcome of Public Consultation on Route Prioritisation Framework (ICIA)

We are pleased to inform you on the outcome of the public consultation on the proposed changes to the Route Prioritisation Framework. The framework, applicable only to major vessel routes, is pivotal in our decision-making process for distributing services during periods of significant disruptions. 

After a thorough review of over 200 responses, we have refined our proposals to better align with the needs and expectations of our island communities. The key decisions include: 

  • When calculating the priority of each route, we will put more emphasis on the level of use by both island residents and commercial vehicles.  

  • Routes with limited capacity on alternative services will be prioritised higher. 

  • Given alternative travel options are available, Ardrossan-Campbeltown and Mallaig-Armadale routes will be the first to experience disruption if a vessel is available and a cascade involving those routes can help. 

  • The aim is to ensure that no route is without service for more than one week, where possible - this excludes Ardrossan-Campbeltown and Mallaig-Armadale. 

  • The rationale behind vessel deployment decisions will be clearly communicated. 

Proposals not taken forward: 

  • Routes will not be prioritised based on higher levels of historical disruption. Instead, recent disruptions will continue to be captured and considered within the existing prioritisation framework. 

  • Spreading vessels across multiple routes will not be a standard practice, especially if it results in less optimal vessel deployment; this will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

The full analysis of the consultation is available by downloading the documents found below in line with ICIA reporting. The refined changes will be implemented starting on 23 October, in conjunction with the launch of our winter timetable. We will monitor the new system over the coming winter season to ensure it is operating as expected. 

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.  

Download the Route Prioritisation Framework ICIA document [800KB]

Download the Route Prioritisation Framework Consultation Feedback document [353KB]

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