The construction of the new pier at Tarbert (Harris) Ferry Terminal is reaching the final stages and is set to be completed by the end of the year.

Installation of the main pier deck is continuing at pace. The precast concrete deck units are in place to form the main pier shape and support the extensive steel reinforcements being installed prior to pouring concrete to provide strength for the completed pier structure.

The infrastructure works form part of the redevelopment programme at Tarbert, led by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), which owns the ferry terminal.

All materials needed to finalise the installation have now been delivered. The fender piles are now all in place and installation of the fender pads – the pads protecting the pier structure from vessel impact when berthing – will allow the removal of the temporary fender system and the temporary stone bund that provides access to the crane and materials during construction.

The newly built retaining wall has progressed to the area between the linkspan and new pier. This permits the installation of seabed scour mats that protect the seabed from being washed away by powerful ferry propellers when berthing.

Work to lay the foundation slab for the new terminal building and carpark will begin shortly along with final surfacing of the marshalling area and new roundabout at the main entrance to the ferry terminal.

John Quinn, senior civil engineer at CMAL, said:

“We are nearing completion of this first phase of harbour upgrade at Tarbert and, while we are approaching the winter months which could potentially bring weather disruption, we are optimistic the new pier and marine infrastructure will be completed by the end of the year. We will then progress with the next phase of work to build a new terminal building.

“This work is vital to renew and modernise the infrastructure and will lead to a much-improved experience for ferry and harbour users.

“We continue to follow government guidelines on COVID-19, ensuring the safety of all those on-site, and the surrounding community. Our thanks go to residents of Tarbert for their continued patience as we carry out the essential construction.”

CMAL is progressing an ambitious plan of investment in Scotland’s ferries and harbours which is part of a £580m commitment from the Scottish Government over the next five years. The programme includes new vessels and multi-million-pound harbour upgrades.


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