Lochmaddy Pier is owned by the Comhairle and, working closely with Transport Scotland, Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), CalMac Ferries Ltd and The Highland Council, the pier and associated infrastructure is to be upgraded to improve the ferry service provision at Lochmaddy and provide an enhanced experience for all ferry and harbour users both now and into the future.

The project forms a key part of the programme of infrastructure improvements on the Skye Triangle ferry routes with improvement works recently completed at Tarbert, Isle of Harris, and ongoing at Uig, Isle of Skye.

George Leslie Ltd will be responsible for completing all civil engineering works for the harbour upgrade project, including the extension and strengthening of the pier, upgraded fendering, seabed dredging land reclamation and extended marshalling and parking areas.

Constructions works are scheduled to start in March 2022 and completed in spring 2023. CalMac will continue to operate ferry services during the works.

Jenny Gilruth, minister for transport, said: “I am very pleased to see the planned upgrade of Lochmaddy Pier moving forward with the award of this contract. It maintains the momentum following the recent completion of the improvement works at Tarbert and the recent award of the contract for improvement works at Uig.

“Work can now begin again on the construction phase of the project, which will deliver an improved experience for the passengers who use these important services.

“Transport Scotland continues to work with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the Highland Council and CMAL in the delivery of our ambitious plans for the facilities at the three ports of Tarbert, Lochmaddy and Uig through the Skye Triangle Infrastructure Improvement Programme.”

She added: “The Scottish Government is providing investment of £580 million in ports and vessels to support and improve Scotland’s ferry services over the next five years, as part of our wider Infrastructure Investment Plan.

“I look forward to seeing this project help to further improve connectivity from and to the Western Isles, with subsequent benefits for the local economy.”

Councillor Uisdean Robertson, chairman of the Comhairle’s Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, added: “We are very pleased to have reached this very important milestone in the delivery of infrastructure improvements for the wider Skye Triangle route.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Transport Scotland, with CMAL and now with George Leslie Ltd in making significant improvements to the pier and marshalling areas at Lochmaddy.

“We are confident that the investment in port infrastructure across the Skye Triangle routes will make a significant contribution to growing and sustaining efficient and effective transport links for the islands.”

Further details will be provided to the local community on the programme of works through regular engagement and communications during the construction period.