Linkspans and pontoons are seen as the likeliest options for berthing the new ferries, with slipways having been ruled out.
A £2m project to repair the vehicle linkspan at Gourock is already being carried out by Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL).
But the documents released under Freedom of Information legislation show linkspans could also be used at Kilcreggan, where the ferry currently berths at a B-listed 19th century wooden pier, and Dunoon.
A linkspan costing £5.4m at Dunoon has never been used at intended – and the document show that situation may not change.
A Transport Scotland report states: “The current infrastructure provision at Dunoon shall be reviewed in line with the proposed new vessels.
“In Dunoon, there will either be a bespoke passenger access system or the existing berth will be modified such that the mooring arrangement, fendering and means of access and egress is designed to accommodate the new vessels.
“Means of access/egress shall be robust, not motion susceptible, accessibility compliant as far as reasonably practicable and achieve the aim of 98% service reliability.”
There is no mention of new infrastructure at Kilcreggan, but the same boats would be. berthing in the village.
Hydraulic linkspans are said to be too complex, while two options for floating linkspans are proposed
Pontoons ‘with end and side berthing’ are also being considered.
Eight years ago, new pontoons were suggested by politicians and civil servants as a solution to Kilcreggan’s chaotic ferry service after SPT made the disastrous decision to hand the contract to Clydelink.
But the £20,000 feasibility study was quietly shelved after consultants said the cost would be £0.5m for Kilcreggan, £1.45m for Dunoon and £3.64m for Gourock, including a new breakwater.
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