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Consultants appointed by CMAL to investigate transport needs for Stornoway – Ullapool
MVA Consultancy has been appointed to work with local communities and stakeholders after CMAL was instructed by the Scottish Government to commission a STAG appraisal to review access options for Stornoway – Ullapool.
Now that the tendering process is complete and consultants are in place, a more detailed project plan will be prepared and suitable consultation meetings with all stakeholders will be organised.
It is anticipated that the study will be completed by March 2009, commencing October 2008.
Currently the Stornoway –Ullapool route is serviced by two ferries; MV Isle of Lewis - a vehicle and passenger service and MV Muirneag- a freight only service. Both of these ferries are currently operated by CalMac Ferries Ltd. There is an obligation to provide a twice daily return sailing on this route providing for the carrying of passengers and vehicles (currently served by the MV Isle of Lewis) and an overnight goods service provided by MV Muirneag. As a result of its age and the increasing costs of sustaining an ageing vessel the MV Muirneag will no longer be a viable option to provide the overnight service after 2013.
By commissioning a STAG the potential options for the route will be developed in consultation with local communities and stakeholders, bearing in mind the Scottish Government’s objectives for the environment, safety, economy, integration and accessibility.
CMAL will lead this process and will, through the consultants, be engaging fully with the Scottish Government, local authorities and the local communities who will form an integral part of this appraisal.
CMAL Director of Vessels Andrew Duncan added:” We will develop a number of options which allow us to look at the big picture in terms of costs, benefits and impacts on other facilities and services. These will now be analysed by stakeholders and communities and we look forward to working with all those concerned.”
Notes to Editors:
- STAG involves the appraisal of generated options which could potentially address identified problems and opportunities against a range of criteria, including value for money. As such, the STAG Report provides the Strategic Business Case for options taken forward. See Transport Scotland’s website for further details http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/node/3171
- CMAL owns property at piers and harbours at more than 21 locations throughout Scotland. CMAL are embarking on a programme of investment and improvements which will create better facilities and more opportunities for additional ferry services.
- CMAL own or lease harbour facilities and infrastructure at Armadale, Brodick, Castlebay, Claonaig, Colintraive, Coll, Colonsay, Cumbrae, Fishnish, Gourock, Kennacraig, Kilchoan, Largs, Lochaline, Lochboisdale, Lochranza, Oban, Port Ellen, Portavadie, Rhubodach, Tarbert (Harris), Tiree, Tobermory, Wemyss Bay
- In addition to its pier and harbour facilities CMAL owns 31 ferries which are leased to CalMac Ferries Ltd and Cowal Ferries Ltd. Last November CMAL placed an order for a modern £22m ferry for the route serving Islay from the mainland.
- CMAL is a publicly owned company with Scottish Ministers as the sole shareholder. CMAL has its headquarters in Port Glasgow.
For further information contact Andrew Flockhart, CMAL, on 01475-749920 or email andrew.flockhart@cmassets.co.uk
October 20th 2008
