New ferry

Proposals for harbour construction work at Tarbert, Lochmaddy and Uig, Skye, have been shared with local communities in a series of public exhibitions.

A new 102-metre LNG ferry is being introduced on the Skye triangle route next autumn..

Around 100 people attended the consultation events organised by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited which provided updates on the proposed improvement works.

Display boards from the exhibition are available to view in ticket offices at each port this week.

The vessel replaces the MV Hebrides in 12 months.

Next summer is pencilled-in for the handover of the £49 million ferry. Some weeks will be spent for crew training and to undertake familiarisation with the vessel before she enters commercial service.

The ship will be longer, wider, heavier and have greater draught than the present MV Hebrides.

Lorna Spencer, director of harbours at CMAL said: “The public exhibitions attracted a good turnout and the format of the event seemed to work well, allowing people to drop-in when convenient. We will take on board the feedback we have received and use it to inform the ongoing planning process.

“No final decisions have been made on what work will be carried out. In addition, the proposals are subject to funding availability.

“Our website will be updated with future developments and it is likely we will hold further public events in future as the project develops.”

A consultation survey is available at www.cmassets.co.uk/skye-triangle.

Consultation over pier works

13 Sept 2017

A new ferry is due next year