Enhancing Connectivity: Gasay Ferry Terminal and Mallaig-Lochboisdale Vessel Development Projects

By | 2025 Newsletter week 02 | No Comments

CMAL published updates on two major projects as part of their public engagement efforts:

Gasay Ferry Terminal Development: This includes updates on the design and development of ferry terminal options for Gasay, with a focus on providing a robust business case for Transport Scotland’s approval. The project evaluates different terminal options (e.g., “Do Nothing,” “Do Minimum,” and “Do Something”) and includes economic assessments, wave modelling, and dynamic mooring analyses.

Mallaig – Lochboisdale New Vessel (MLNV) Project: This involves designing a replacement for the ageing ferry LORD OF THE ISLES. The new vessel aims to incorporate community feedback, improve accessibility, and adopt greener technologies, such as diesel-electric hybrid propulsion. The project also discusses associated shore power infrastructure and port studies.

Both projects emphasise public and stakeholder engagement, economic evaluation, and alignment with Transport Scotland’s investment objectives.

The document (PDF) can be read and downloaded here: https://www.cmassets.co.uk/presentation-materials-mallaig-lochboisdale-new-vessel/

Ardrossan Harbour Project Stalls as GLEN SANNOX Launches from Troon

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Kevin Hobbs, CMAL’s chief executive, told MSPs that funding talks with Ardrossan Harbour’s private owner remain “in the middle of nowhere.”

Ferry GLEN SANNOX, launching next week, will operate temporarily from Troon with three daily return crossings due to longer journey times. Ardrossan will see no CalMac sailings until the CALEDONIAN ISLES returns from repairs in March.

Approved in 2018, the Ardrossan Harbour Project was paused in 2023 over rising costs. Existing facilities are unsuitable for safely berthing larger vessels, delaying progress further.

Source: BBC https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3wegzddy3xo