Islanders have been reminded that the consultation over the latest plan to build a new ferry pier in South Uist closes tomorrow (Tuesday).
Scottish Government agency, which owns ferries and harbour infrastructure on the west coast intends to construct a completely new berth at a different site within Loch Boisdale sealoch.
CMAL said: “This survey is your opportunity to provide your feedback on the final preferred option for the ferry terminal, and any suggestions you would like to share with the project team.”
The feedback survey closes tomorrow (Tuesday) 26th September:
A solid walled pier on the south side of Gasay -
A linkspan would be constructed at the main berth to accommodate the ferry.
The second berth will be available for use by other vessels, provided there is no disruption to the ferry service.
Some locals would like to see a future proofed terminal which would accommodate vessels engaged in offshore work and non-
Construction of a new ferry terminal for South Uist is required as the current pier at Lochboisdale is at the end of its serviceable life and beyond economical repair.
The aim is to build a deep water berth at Gasay while also improving navigational safety and manoeuvrability as the existing current approach to Lochboisdale is quite tight with the added hazard of yachts or leisure craft exiting the marina into the shipping channel.
The location also allows space for a larger and better modern terminal building with a significantly enhanced marshalling area compared to the existing facility.
The exact structure of the pier will be determined at the detailed design stage, but the proposed option will see a fully closed structure formed with a steel sheet-
The proposed plan has a pier length of 120 metre, with a minimum water depth of 5.5 metres below the lowest expected tide.
The plan is to maintain the ferry service to Mallaig with a separate move to build a new vessel for the route.
The ground where the ferry terminal will be built onshore at Gasay will still be owned by Stòras Uibhist and leased to CMAL.
The survey is available at Gasay Ferry Terminal Development
Last chance to submit views on new South Uist ferry pier plans
25 September 2023
