Analyzing options for setting ferry freight rates and fares across Scotland
Fares for commercial vehicles carried on Scotland’s lifeline ferry services are set by operators or through contracts tendered by Scottish Government. The range of fares, discounts, and surcharges has developed over time and are not consistent. We were appointed to review of these fares and assess the impact of adopting a range of more consistent regimes across the country.
The goal? To deliver a new fare structure that is simple, transparent and does not advantage one part of the network over any other part—it also needs to balance the wellbeing of communities against the public sector cost. We reviewed current practice in Scotland and internationally to learn lessons from elsewhere. Transport Scotland then set a range of appraisal criteria as follows: acceptability, affordability, consistency, sustainability, and transparency and simplicity. Several options were developed based on fixed and distance-based fare elements, and for each island the implied current and future fare was derived.
We consulted operators, stakeholders and industry bodies and a shortlist of options emerged. The findings fed into an ongoing review being undertaken by Scottish Ministers and a final decision on the future arrangement for freight fares.
At a Glance
- Offices
Scott Leitham, Director, Transport Planning, Strategy and Research
We’re helping clients plan a sustainable future for their communities in this rapidly evolving transport policy environment.
We're better together
-
Become a client
Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.
Contact Us -
Design your career
Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.
Join the Team