UK funds could be a ‘big step forward’ for ferries between Scotland and France

A funding pledge from the UK Government could see plans for a direct ferry service between Scotland and France take a “big step forward”, Douglas Alexander said.

The Scottish Secretary spoke out as £3 million of funding from the UK’s Growth Mission Fund was announced for the ferry port at Rosyth.

That investment could help with necessary upgrades to the Border Force and customs infrastructure at the port.

It is however subject to the conclusion of a commercial agreement between Forth Ports, who operate the Rosyth facility, and a ferry operator, as well as approval of the business case for a new service.

However with ferry operator DFDS said to be “actively engaged” in discussions over a new ferry service between Rosyth and Dunkirk in France, Mr Alexander said he hoped to see the first ferries set sail soon.

The Scottish Secretary said: “With the UK Government delivering £3 million in investment, this new direct ferry service would connect Scotland to Europe’s doorstep.

“The UK Government is backing Scottish businesses to grow, export and compete on the world stage.”

Speaking about the planned service, Mr Alexander added: “It would boost tourism, open up new markets for Scottish businesses, create jobs, take freight off our roads and grow Scotland’s economy.

“This is a big step forward and I hope we will soon see the first ferry set sail.”

The funding, he said, was a “major vote of confidence in Scotland’s, and the UK’s, economic future”.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves meanwhile stated: “Backing Rosyth with this £3 million investment would be a major boost to Scotland’s infrastructure and tourism, and would make the area a more attractive place to live, work and start a business in the years to come.”

The prospect of a new crossing comes more than 15 years after the ferry crossing between Rosyth and Zeebrugge ended

But on Thursday, Mr Alexander will meet senior figures from Forth Ports, DFDS, and the operators of the Port of Dunkirk.

Speaking in advance of that, DVDS executive vice president Mathieu Girardin said: “We are pleased to see the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening port infrastructure in Rosyth.

“This is an important step in bringing a new route between Scotland and mainland Europe closer to reality.

“While a few elements still need to be addressed, we see strong potential in the route and look forward to continuing our discussions with all partners involved to move the project forward.”

Stuart Wallace, the chief executive officer at Forth Ports, also welcomed the UK Government support.

“A ferry service from Rosyth to mainland Europe is a key part of the Forth Green Freeport and this funding helps create the market conditions needed to see the ferry take a step closer to reality,” Mr Wallace stated.

Daniel Deschodt, executive vice president of the Port of Dunkirk, said: “The establishment of a direct maritime link between the ports of Rosyth and Dunkirk is a significant strategic asset.

“This new freight and passenger ferry service will enhance connectivity between the two countries, facilitating smoother trade flows and serving as a powerful catalyst for economic growth.

“It will stimulate port activity, boost local employment, and strengthen the logistics, competitiveness, and tourism of both regions within Europe.”