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The RNLI is poised to base a new lifeboat at Leverburgh on a 12 month trial at its Trustees’ meeting tomorrow.  

It follows concern over many years of the difficulties in reaching the scene of a maritime emergency on the west coast of the Hebrides.

Barra and Stornoway lifeboats are located at each end of the Western Isles archipelago but, even steaming at full speed, would take around two hours to the reach Leverburgh.

At one point, there was consideration of the community financing a private lifeboat to cover the west coast of Uist after fatalities and incidents in the area.

The RNLI   is now fully expected to rubber stamp the proposal to base a £350,000 all-weather Mersey class lifeboat at the south end of Harris.  

Local volunteers would be sought for the six-crew complement of the 12-metre vessel which has a service speed of 17 knots and a range of 140 miles. The lifeboat is designed to be launched from a large trailer, or carriage, or via slipway. Alternatively, she could lie afloat at anchor or moorings.

 

 

 

Hebrides News, RNLI Leverburgh lifeboat

New lifeboat to cover Uist and Harris              1/11/10

The Mersey class lifeboat would be based at Leverburgh.

RNLI