By
Alex Smith |
The Scottish Government intends to directly award shipbuilder Ferguson Marine contracts to build four vessels, which will provide a five-year pipeline of work for the Port Glasgow yard.
The package includes the construction of two passenger ferries for Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited as part of phase two of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme, alongside two research vessels for Marine Scotland. The passenger vessels will operate within the Caledonian MacBrayne network.
“This direct award does more than just help with our order book; it underpins our future, improves our resilience and confirms our strategic importance to the country,” said Duncan Anderson, chair of Ferguson Marine. “The Scottish Government’s intention to award us four new vessels marks the beginning of a new chapter for Ferguson Marine, securing our enduring legacy and ensuring we progress toward being a leader in the industry in years to come. We look forward to collaborating and strengthening our relationships with the Scottish Government, CMAL, CalMac, Marine Scotland and beyond as we work together to determine a robust plan for delivery.”
The yard has been wholly owned by the Scottish Government since nationalisation in 2019 and has operated on the Clyde for more than a century. It is currently completing a transformation project to modernise its facilities. Following the announcement, Ferguson Marine and the Scottish Government will progress delivery planning and sequencing for the proposed vessels.
“This is a watershed moment for our shipyard and a significant opportunity for us to retain our Clydebuilt workforce,” said Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine. “By unlocking vital infrastructure and equipment upgrades, this direct award is the catalyst for Ferguson Marine to become a world-class, digitally enabled shipbuilder, capable of competing on a global stage. I have the utmost confidence in the talent and technical skill within our team to produce ships fit to serve communities and provide critical research infrastructure for years to come.”