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 Lismore.

Click here to view a PowerPoint of the MVA Consultancy report initial findings from public consultation.

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 within five - six months, commencing autumn 2008.

Currently the Island is serviced by two ferries which will require to be replaced within the next five years; MV Eigg - a vehicle and passenger service operated by Calmac Ferries Ltd (CFL) from Oban to Lismore and MV The Lismore which offers a passenger route from Port Appin – Lismore, operated by Argyll and Bute Council.

By commissioning Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance on Lismore access priorities, 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 working in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council, CFL and the Scottish Government. Engaging fully with local communities will form an integral part of this appraisal process.

CMAL Director of Harbour and Piers Lorna Spencer said:”Reviewing options for this route through the STAG process will allow us to look at the big picture in terms of costs, benefits and impacts on other facilities. We will develop a number of options which can be analysed by stakeholders and communities before making a final recommendation on which option should be progressed. We look forward to working with all those concerned.”

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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.
  • 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.

For further information, please contact Andrew Flockhart at CMAL on 01475-749933.