SSEN Transmission and its principal contractor, Balfour Beatty, have secured the dedicated vessel MV Arrow to manage the complex logistics of the Western Isles High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Link.

The move is designed to ensure that the transport of construction materials and project freight for the Lewis Hub does not disrupt existing public ferry services between Stornoway and Ullapool. By managing project-specific logistics independently, the developer aims to safeguard the capacity of the local transport network for residents and tourists.

A key feature of the charter is a built-in release mechanism, allowing the MV Arrow to be utilized by CalMac and other partners when not required for project delivery. This will provide much-needed resilience to the islands' essential ferry network, particularly during routine maintenance periods for vessels like the MV Loch Seaforth. The strategy was developed through extensive collaboration with Stornoway Port, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Ullapool Harbour Trust, Transport Scotland, CMAL, and CalMac.

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Sandy Mactaggart, Director of Offshore Delivery at SSEN Transmission, said: "Securing the MV Arrow gives us the confidence and operational capacity to deliver the Lewis Hub project without placing additional pressure on the ferry services island communities depend on. Crucially, the vessel will be available to others when not required for our work, helping to protect the resilience of island ferry services."

Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop welcomed the news, noting: "I am pleased that SSEN Transmission have confirmed the MV Arrow will be available to support lifeline ferry services. This approach has been developed in close partnership with local organisations and stakeholders to ensure that our lifeline ferry services remain resilient for those who rely on them."

In addition to maritime logistics, the project team is working with Loganair to manage staff travel via air to further reduce pressure on sea routes. SSEN Transmission has also implemented measures to protect local housing and tourism by supporting new-build affordable housing near Stornoway Airport and refurbishing the Caledonian Hotel to accommodate project personnel, leaving a lasting infrastructure legacy for the region.