Oban 1 Berth Upgrade Project reaches key design milestone
We have reached an important milestone in the development of the Oban 1 Berth Upgrades Project, with the Outline Design for the preferred option now complete.
The project is being developed to improve port infrastructure at Oban, supporting current ferry operations while preparing the harbour for future vessels, including those planned through the Small Vessel Replacement Programme (SVRP).
The completed Outline Design includes a range of proposed infrastructure improvements, including:
- Extension and widening of the existing slipway to accommodate existing hybrid and future SVRP replacement vessels, alongside improvements to the quay wall alignment to reduce operational restrictions during tidal extremes.
- A new Oban 1 linkspan, fenders, and mooring bollards, designed to current standards and aligned with infrastructure already delivered at Brodick and under construction at Port Ellen, supporting greater standardisation, operational efficiency and interoperability across routes served from Oban.
- A new approach structure that supports both the upgraded linkspan and the provision of an overnight berth for the Oban–Lismore ferry.
- A new Passenger Access System (PAS), agreed in principle, to support in-scope vessels’ compatibility and passenger access requirements.
- Confirmation of the preferred location for shore power infrastructure, including the electricity sub-station and associated equipment housing.
Work continues to progress on the Outline Business Case (OBC) for the preferred option. Once complete, it will be submitted to Transport Scotland for review and approval, enabling the project to move into the detailed design stage. This is currently anticipated to take place toward the end of 2026.
Further work will also continue to develop shore power infrastructure proposals and undertake additional ground investigations within the harbour to support detailed design activities, subject to approval of the OBC.
Looking ahead, CMAL intends to launch the first public consultation on a revised Harbour Revision Order (HRO) required to support delivery of the project. This is currently expected to take place later in 2026, subject to the approval to progress to the Detailed Design and Full Business Case stage.
CMAL will continue to keep local communities and stakeholders informed as the project progresses.
Get in touch
You can find out more about this project at cmal.scot/oban-1, and please do not hesitate to contact our project team at oban1berth@cmassets.co.uk with any questions.
Categories: Cidheachan is Calaidhean, Co-chomhairlean, Naidheachdan, Nochdte, Oban 1 Berth Upgrades, Pròiseactan, Tachartasan
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