Stornoway Port Authority has issued an update on the ongoing challenges with its Passenger Access System (PAS).
The organisation says it remains committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible, while maintaining the highest standards of passenger safety and operational efficiency.
The next steps are to reduce passenger wait times before the upcoming summer timetable
The port authority aims to develop a more resilient passenger access system. It also seeks to ensure the most accessible boarding and disembarking experience for all passengers.
Over the past 13 months travellers have been forced to board and disembark the vessel via the linkspan, car ramp, and vehicle deck because of the broken covered walkway system which should link the CalMac ferry, MV Loch Seaforth, to the Stornoway terminal building.
Passengers found lugging suitcases, holdalls, and pushchairs across the deck and up the ship’s stairways a very cumbersome and vexing process. A luggage van service introduced last month relieved some of strain but passengers still need to hold back until the car deck has emptied before being allowed to disembark at Stornoway.
Alex Macleod, chief executive at Stornoway Port Authority, said: “The prolonged challenges with our Passenger Access System have been nothing short of unacceptable, and I completely understand the frustration and inconvenience this has caused.
“This process has dragged on far too long. But I want to be clear, we are committed to implementing a robust, resilient system that will stand the test of time – we will not rush a substandard solution just to say we've fixed the problem.”
He added: “We know this situation has been inconvenient and we are committed to finding
a long-term solution. We’re grateful for the continued patience and cooperation of
passengers.”
Process so far
Following the failure of the passenger access system, the port authority engaged a specialised team of external consultants to comprehensively assess the PAS and provide recommendations on the way forward.
The specialist engineers have submitted their reports, which have been reviewed by the port.
However, the port is still awaiting additional specialist reports commissioned separately by its insurance company, as well as confirmation from the insurer regarding when next steps can commence.
This is a “complex process and is the main reason” for the delay said the organisation.
The introduction of the luggage van has been successful and has been well received
by travellers on the ferry service. CalMac Ferries, Ullapool Harbour and Stornoway
Port continue to work in partnership to ensure the luggage service is as efficient
as possible. The port said it hopes this provision will continue in the long-term.
CalMac staff continue to be available to assist passengers as and when required and have provided support throughout this issue.
Regular safety checks are undertaken on the current temporary access route. Improvements have been made and will continue to be made if identified.
While foot passengers are currently experiencing “slight disembarkation delays” vehicle-transported
passengers remain unaffected.
The harbour authority previously explained a failure of a safety critical element within the Passenger Access System occurred in December 2023. A similar but less serious incident earlier in the year had been repaired by the third party supplier of the system.
The walkway system will remain out of commission until further notice.
Port authority committed to developing better Stornoway ferry gangway
24 January 2025
The covered gangway remains broken
