PLANS for a new multi-million-pound electric ferry to service one of Scotland's busiest single-vessel crossings have reached a “significant milestone”.
The Highland Council has officially launched the procurement process for a new electric ferry to navigate the Corran Narrows.
The five-minute ferry crosses Loch Linnhe and links the wider Lochaber area with communities in the Ardgour peninsula in the west.
Currently, the MV Corran services the route, but the 25-year-old vessel has suffered several faults in recent months.
It was withdrawn in March due to a technical issue with the forward prop, which came less than 24 hours after the vessel returned to service following a three-month annual refit.
Highland Council said it hopes to award the contract for the new electric vessel in March next year, with the new ferry anticipated to enter service in early 2029.
The ferry will be funded through a £58 million investment from the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, including £28 million from the Scottish Government and £20 million from the UK Government.
Chair of The Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans, said reaching the procurement stage for a new electric Corran Ferry is a “significant milestone” and “demonstrates the continued progress being made in delivering this major investment for the Highlands”.
He said: “The Corran crossing is a vital transport link for local communities, businesses and visitors, and procuring a suitably qualified suppliers is a vital step towards securing a modern, reliable and sustainable ferry service.
“Alongside investment in new shoreside infrastructure, the replacement vessel will help strengthen the resilience of the service, support our environmental ambitions and ensure the crossing continues to play a key role in supporting the economy and connectivity of the area for generations to come.”
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn said the Scottish Government is committed to providing Highland communities the infrastructure they need to “thrive”.
He said: “These projects highlight the value of partnership working between the Scottish Government and City-Region Deal partners to strengthen connectivity, drive economic growth and build more resilient communities across the Highlands.”
The MV Corran will continue to serve as a relief vessel.
