Mull ferry terminal cost almost doubles

A contractor for the facility is expected to be appointed early in the New Year, says a report due to go before councillors this week.

A council official has revealed that the projected cost has jumped from £50 million in 2020 to £96m, due to inflationary cost increases.

The objectives of the project at Craignure include replacing its existing infrastructure, parts of which are reportedly in poor condition or have limited structural capacity.

The project also aims to increase berthing capacity, and ensure that vessels can berth all year round, including in challenging weather conditions.

The details feature in a report to go before the Argyll and Bute Harbour Board at its meeting on Thursday, September 11.

Kirsty Flanagan, Argyll and Bute Council executive director, said: “This next stage will develop more accurate construction costing estimates as the design and methodology become more informed.

“The initial construction phase projection cost of £50 million is now estimated at circa £96 million based on inflationary increases to the original 2020 estimates.

“Officers are currently progressing with the tender to appoint the management consultants who will progress the project to Final Business Case. The tender is anticipated to be live by November 2025 with an appointment expected in January 2026.”

An update on the passenger access system (PAS) at Craignure also features in the report, with Ms Flanagan adding: “The design and build tenders were returned with costs significantly higher than originally estimated and timescales significantly longer than expected.

“Officers have since discussed options with representatives from CMAL and CalMac and agreed that operationally an inspection and refurbishment of the existing facility should take place to extend the safe working life of the existing PAS until the new pier is completed.

“This is anticipated to include some structural elements, electrical wiring, painting etc. CMAL and Argyll and Bute Council will work together to progress this.”