2.1 Introduction
Our overall approach to the study is shown in Figure 2.1 overleaf. In summary, we undertook the assignment in four phases:
The tasks undertaken in each phase are summarised in Figure 2. 1.
The work undertaken in each phase is described in greater detail below.
2.2 Phase 1 : Set-up
In this phase, we prepared a draft work programme for the consideration of the study sponsors at an inception meeting held with the Steering Group. This meeting confirmed the scope and timetable for the study, and covered the following agenda:
Figure 2.1 Gourouck/Dunoon Ferry Service Overal Approach
fig2.1
A key output of the Inception Meeting was an agreed project plan which confirmed the outputs required from the study and specified key milestones to be achieved.
2.3 Phase 2 : Fact-finding
The second phase of the study involved the collection of data relevant to the current and future operation of the two ferry services (Gourock/Dunoon and McInroy's Point/Hunter's Quay), as well as the CalMac service from Weymss Bay to Rothesay. The key data relevant for the study were provided by the sponsoring parties themselves. Both parties provided detailed financial data, some of which is summarised in this report. Both parties also provided data on the structure and level of their traffic. but CalMac provided the bulk of the data for peak daily and hourly flows: (although both companies retain records of passenger numbers by sailing & as required by law, Western Ferries has only recently started to analyse these records).
The main output from this research was a detailed assessment of the upper Clyde ferry market, traffic volumes. costs of service delivery and investment requirements.
A key input to this model was a market analysis encompassing:
Finally, we examined future investment requirements on the route, with respect both to shipping capacity and supporting infrastructure.
2.4 Phase 3 : Options Assessment
In the third phase of the study, we analysed the facts gathered in Phase 2 in order to assess potential options for meeting future traffic demand. A number of options were indicated in the Terms of Reference for the study. Other possible options were identified during the fact-finding phase. In order to finalise the options and assessment criteria, three separate workshops were organised with each of the study sponsors. The purpose of each workshop was to:
The findings of the three workshops fed into a more detailed analysis and costing of feasible options.
2.5 Phase 4: Reporting
The final stage of the study involved setting out our findings in a Final Report.