Argyll and Bute Harbour Board has committed £3 million over the next two years to advance the replacement of Craignure Ferry Terminal on the Isle of Mull.

This funding will propel the project towards the construction phase and support broader efforts to improve island connectivity.

The allocated funds will cover the completion of crucial groundwork, including business case development, Environmental Impact Assessments, planning permissions, licensing, design, and tendering processes. This stage will also refine construction cost estimates, which are currently projected at £96 million, reflecting inflationary increases since the initial 2020 estimates.

The terminal replacement is being planned to accommodate new ferries deployed to Mull by Transport Scotland. The preferred site for the new terminal is situated just north of the existing pier, chosen for its favourable water depth and weather conditions.

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Replacing the current terminal infrastructure aims to deliver several key improvements:

• Increased berth capacity to accommodate a wider range of vessels.

• Year-round berthing, including overnight stays, to reduce cancellations and enhance the winter timetable.

• Improved terminal operational resilience.

• Increased vehicle marshalling area capacity.

• A modern terminal building with enhanced passenger and staff facilities.

• Improved access for RNLI lifeboats for emergency medical evacuations.

Councillor Ross Moreland, Chair of the Harbour Board, said: "Planning Craignure’s ferry terminal replacement is just one aspect of our work with partners to improve connectivity and service resilience on Mull. Along with a planned £25 million project to create overnight berthing at Fionnphort, it represents potential investment in our marine infrastructure on Mull of over £120 million over the next five years. The additional £15 million commitment to improving the breakwater at Iona slip is a clear sign that our islands play an important role in Argyll and Bute’s community life and economy."