Three piers are to be upgraded to handle a bigger ferry for the Lochmaddy and Tarbert routes.
The MV Hebrides is set to be replaced late next year.
A new-
Hull and steelwork of the vessel is presently 75% complete at Ferguson’s yard on the Clyde with her launch expected next summer.
Before she can be put into service by the end of 2018, three piers at each of her voyage ports have to be strengthened to accommodate her larger bulk.
The vessel is designed to carry up to 1,000 passengers. Her car deck will be about 25% bigger than the Hebrides and will be able to load 127 cars or 16 lorries, or a combination of both.
Highland Council which owns Uig harbour in Skye proposes spending £23 million on a new pier.
The authority warns it will increase harbour dues -
Meanwhile, engineers have been hired to draw up the redesign of harbours on the Western Isles’ side of the Minch.
Tarbert pier is owned by Cmal while the Lochmaddy ferry terminal belongs to Western Isles Council.
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (Cmal) will own the vessel and lease it to Cal Mac.
Lorna Spencer, Cmals’ director of harbours, said: “We know that the age and condition of the existing infrastructure at these harbours will benefit from investment to optimise operations.
“The larger size of the new dual fuel vessel and the ongoing need for investment in harbour infrastructure are key considerations for identifying the works required.
“We already know that harbour improvements are needed – the arrival of the new vessel is accelerating the process.”
The work to identify harbour requirements will be completed by summer 2017.
Cmal plans to hold public meetings to update local communities on progress.
Artist’s impression of the new Tarbert and Lochmaddy ferry
Three harbours to be upgraded for new £48.5 million ferry
21 March 2017