Project has created a flagship ferry harbour that provides facilities that will boost the local economy
By
Elizabeth Robinson |
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) officially opened the new Brodick Ferry Terminal on the Isle of Arran, Scotland, following a £30 million (US$42,910) infrastructure upgrade project.
The facility was opened by Derek Mackay, Scotland’s cabinet secretary for finance and the constitution, who was joined by Kevin Hobbs, chief executive at CMAL, who led delivery of the project.
“I’m delighted to officially open the new terminal and pier at Brodick Harbour, a project that has transformed the facility and will bring real benefits to ferry users,” said Mackay. “The upgrade will strengthen the harbour’s resilience, allowing a broader range of vessels to berth, and the new terminal building will improve the overall experience for passengers.”
Work to transform the harbour began in January 2016 and resulted in a new 110-metre, two-berth pier, designed to accommodate CMAL’s new dual-fuel vessel, Glen Sannox, when she enters service and existing passenger ferry Waverley. The berths will also be able to accommodate other commercial vessels, including cruise ships.
The modern two-storey terminal building features a ticket office, toilets, harbour staff offices and a 120-seat departure lounge. Outside, there is an increased marshalling area featuring six lanes, offering a combined 895 metres for cars and service vehicles; six bus stands with two modern shelters; and parking for up to 65 cars.
A commitment to sustainability throughout design and construction process has led to a ‘very good’ Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method rating and the top score from the Considerate Constructors Scheme. The new terminal building has photovoltaic roof tiles to generate electricity, a biomass heating system and a natural air ventilation system, as well as on-site segregated bicycle routes and storage, and electric vehicle charging points in the parking area.
In addition, the majority of excavated material was re-used in the project as fill for the marshalling area, and excess material was donated to the Brodick Improvement Committee to use in the recovery of Brodick Beach.
“The new Brodick Ferry Terminal is a fantastic addition to the island’s transport and tourism infrastructure, offering islanders and visitors a more resilient ferry service and a more comfortable and safer travel experience,” said Hobbs. “The opening of the new terminal marks a key milestone in our investment programme for Arran. The new ferry for the Ardrossan to Brodick route, Glen Sannox, was launched last year and the new terminal will be a fitting, modern home for this innovative vessel when it enters service. In addition, we have recently undertaken several small upgrade schemes at Lochranza and have planned works during 2018 at both Lochranza and Claonaig.”