Updated: 20 June 2023. Next update: 8 July 2024
Current situation
- Our contractor is working on replacing the fenders on the main berth at Port Askaig
- The terminal will close between 19 June and 30 July while the fenders on the roundhead are replaced
- Temporary timetables are available on the
Background
Port Askaig Harbour is being upgraded to accommodate the new, larger capacity CalMac ferries.
We commissioned consultants to carry out a study to determine options for the existing marshalling areas and to produce a plan that would maximise the best use of the port footprint.
Following discussions with CFL (CalMac Ferries Ltd), Transport Scotland and the Council, we produced a concept design which set out:
- The maximum capacity for the port foot print
- An improved safety profile for operational staff and customers
- An operational model that fulfils requirements for flexible loading options
- Contingency plans e.g. port closures, extreme traffic conditions, etc.
This would lead to:
- Marshalling space for 129% of the new ferry Passenger Car Unit Capacity (PCU)
- In exceptional circumstances, this can be increase to 186% of the vessel PCU capacity
We are also exploring an offsite location for 50 cars that can be used for contingency marshalling or parking.
This high level development option would have required extensive work starting imminently. However, following review of consultation feedback from communities and the level of facility we currently have, we are able to deliver a more cost effective solution that remains within the parameters of the provision in our Marine Asset Management Plan (MASP), without the larger scale disruption and additional cost that would have been required by the concept design. This will take into account the communities' wishes to preserve parking spaces, and we will deliver improved signage, lining, quayside traffic management and CCTV for Port Askaig in time for the new larger ferry arriving. We are now progressing that solution to enhance existing facilities.
Next steps
Our focus is on enhancing existing features so they are ready in time to welcome the new larger ferries and doing all we can as a council to support an effective ferry service for Islay and Jura.
We remain on track to deliver the more cost effective solution within the parameters of the MASP, while addressing the concerns of the local community and delivering approximately 140% of the vessel's PCU capacity within the Port. This capacity provides contingency should ferries be delayed or vehicles arrive early. This is a higher, more ambitious level of capacity than provided in many ports across the UK.
Wider works
CMAL led a series of public engagement meetings about the wider Islay Ferry Enabling Works on behalf of our Co-ordination Group (comprising CMAL, PվɫÇéƬ, CFL and Transport Scotland). Thanks to everyone who gave their time join us and to put forward their views. Comments have been collated and published on the .