The upgrade project at Tarbert Ferry Terminal is set to enter a ‘soft start’ construction period on Monday 29 June as contractors return to site to commence a range of works.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), which is the harbour authority for East Loch Tarbert and owner of the ferry terminal, is responsible for delivering the upgrade project.  CMAL has advised its principal contractor, RJ McLeod to move to the next step of the construction restart plan.

Work ceased on the infrastructure redevelopment project at Tarbert Ferry Terminal on 26 March after the coronavirus lockdown came into force.

Site set-up preparations, including implementing physical distancing and handwashing / sanitising measures, began on Monday 15 June and will be complete before the soft restart commences.

RJ McLeod will restart dredging works, reinstate pontoons, finish the temporary terminal building, decant and demolish the existing terminal building, continue with rock infilling and construction works for the new marshalling area along the shorefront, continue with installation of essential services, and prepare for the new pier construction.

CMAL is strictly adhering to the six-step restart plan agreed between the Scottish Government and the Scottish construction industry to support a gradual return to operations as the coronavirus lockdown restrictions are eased.

Working closely with CMAL, contractors have put in place robust plans for the safety of the island community and their staff.  Personnel will stay in self-catering accommodation and their interactions with the local community will be minimal by avoiding other public places, arranging grocery deliveries to site, engaging with Calmac terminal staff through email and telephone only and following the appropriate guidance in the event that anyone becomes unwell during the works.

John Quinn, senior civil engineer at CMAL, said:

“Site preparations are going well, and they will be complete in advance of the soft restart of construction activity.  While we’re keen to get back to operations, health and safety is the priority and we are following the guidance, implementing adequate safety measures on-site, limiting personnel, and the guidance is clear for everyone involved.”

CMAL will provide further updates as the project moves into the next step of the restart plan, subject to Scottish Government approval, in the coming weeks.

 


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