By
Laura Hyde |
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is to redevelop the ferry terminal on the Isle of Islay in the Hebrides in Scotland to improve ferry operations.
The Scottish Government-owned operator has appointed Belfast-based building and civil engineering firm McLaughlin & Harvey to carry out construction work on the Port Ellen terminal, which will modernise the harbour and expand landside infrastructure. Work is scheduled to begin in June 2026 and is expected to be completed in 2029.
A new dedicated ferry berth will be built to accommodate both CMAL’s new Islay-class ferries, as well as current vessels in the CalMac-operated fleet. The berth will also feature shore power charging facilities and a new, larger ferry terminal building.
“This £107 million ($143 million) project will create new, modern terminal facilities, expand marshalling areas and upgrade public and active travel amenities – improving passenger experience and supporting resilient ferry operations,” said Fiona Hyslop, Scottish cabinet secretary for transport. “Together with the delivery of two new major vessels this year and completed investments in harbour upgrades at Port Askaig, Kennacraig and Colonsay, this programme of improvements underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to delivering a reliable and sustainable ferry service for the people and economy of Islay.”
The harbour will feature car charging bays, bicycle facilities and a longer fishing berth, alongside an extended commercial quay with segregated offloading areas to improve operational safety.
The project will also include significant land reclamation to enable safe and efficient traffic management, as well as marshalling and commercial storage.
“The upgrade works to Port Ellen will provide a new, resilient harbour for the residents and businesses of Islay,” said Kevin Hobbs, chief executive of CMAL. “This project has been in planning stage since 2021, and we welcome the Scottish government’s commitment of funding to allow us to progress. The improved facilities will enhance passenger experience, and is the latest milestone in our plans to modernise the Scottish ferry fleet and infrastructure.”