This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Improved links for west coast islands
16/06/2005
CalMac have been given the go-ahead to begin work on a
new £3 million ferry access ramp at Oban pier.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen today approved the
application for a harbour revision order which will give
them the power to build a second linkspan at the pier.
This will increase the pier's capacity, mimimising
delays and improving access to the islands. The decision
follows a public local inquiry held in February into the
proposals.
Mr Stephen said:
"Oban is one of the west coast's busiest ports serving
Coll, Colonsay, Mull, South Uist and Tiree. These islands
are currently served by a single linkspan which is due for
replacement in the next few years.
"Good quality ferry links are vital to our island
communities which is why I have decided to give the
go-ahead to a new second linkspan. This will increase
capacity and reduce congestion, particularly during the
busy summer months.
"I understand the views of the objectors but I am
satisfied that their concerns can be addressed by CalMac. I
have asked the company to work with local fishing interests
and others who use the harbour to ensure appropriate vessel
management measures."
As part of the overall project the Scottish Executive
will also be providing support for CalMac to provide
covered elevated passenger walkways connecting the new
terminal with each of the ferry berths.
The proposed second linkspan is an adjustable steel
lifting bridge, constructed alongside the pier, for the
purpose of allowing road vehicles access from the pier to a
car ferry at all tide levels. The linkspan and associated
works total nearly £3 million investment.
CalMac is the harbour authority for Oban pier. Under the
terms of the Harbours Act 1964, the authority must apply
for a Harbour Revision Order to grant them the power to
build and operate the new linkspan.