New £22.5m ferry terminal officially opens in Harris as part of £700m investment into Tarbert Harbour

The multi-million pound Tarbert ferry terminal project, led by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), has officially opened.

The project was completed in partnership with principal contractor RJ McLeod Ltd and ferry operator CalMac Ferries Ltd, with support from consultants Wallace Stone LLP and consenting and environmental specialists AFFRIC Ltd.

Local building firm Lewis Builders of Stornoway constructed the new terminal building which benefits from more seating for passengers.

The work was completed earlier this year during which the lifeline ferry terminal remained operational and caused minimal disruption.

The project has provided passengers with a new pier, fendering system, and larger marshalling area.

Kevin Hobbs, chief executive of CMAL, said the terminal is a “much more comfortable” place for passengers.

“Welcoming the Transport Minister to Tarbert today is a great opportunity to showcase the transformation of the harbour.

“Tarbert Harbour is well prepared for the new ferry due to arrive in 2025,” he added.

The rejuvenated harbour will be home to one of two vessels under construction at Cemre Marin Endustri A.S shipyard in Turkey.

The projects deliver by CMAL are backed by a £700m commitment from the Scottish Government.

Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop, toured the facilities with Mr Hobbs, before speaking at the opening ceremony and unveiling a plaque in front of the new building.

Ms Hyslop said: “I’m really pleased to have been able to visit and formally open these upgraded facilities at Tarbert Ferry Terminal.

“I can already see that the new terminal building is popular with passengers and staff, and the new marine infrastructure is bringing benefits through increased marshalling areas and enhanced berthing facilities that will allow larger vessels to dock.

“I’d like to thank all the partners involved in delivering this upgrade for their hard work and congratulate them on the project winning a Scottish Civil Engineering Marine Infrastructure Award.”