Two councils have joined forces with the Scottish Government to work together to deliver a Dunoon to Gourock ferry service.

Argyll and Bute Council and Inverclyde Council have agreed a joint approach, and have now met for the first time as part of a new tripartite arrangement with the Scottish Government, to explore a way forward for the Gourock-Dunoon route.

Councillor Dick Walsh, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council said: "This was a very worthwhile meeting and has galvanised our joint and complete support on this ferry route.

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"The Dunoon to Gourock, town centre to town centre, route is vital for the economies of both areas and combined passenger and vehicle service is absolutely essential."

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Convener of Inverclyde Council's Regeneration Committee added: "There are no separate issues between the two Councils on the ferry service and their interests and those of their relative communities are very similar.

"That makes it essential for both Councils to participate in the future representations to the European Commission."

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "This meeting was very useful, it allowed us to discuss our approach, and the best way of ensuring that our plans are compliant with EU law. We will continue to liaise closely with Argyll and Bute Council and Inverclyde Council on a solution for this route."

(GK/JM)