New Project Overview: Upgrading Oban Harbour Infrastructure

Project Objectives

The project aims to upgrade the infrastructure at the Oban 1 linkspan and adjacent slipway to support the requirements for new vessels being proposed for routes from this berth. The changes will ensure future resilience.

The project will investigate, determine and develop a preferred design solution to accommodate;

Small Vessel Replacement Programme (SVRP) vessels and current hybrid vessels from the slipway
An overnight berth and appropriate charging facilities for SVRP vessels
New Islay class Vessel (NIV) bow and stern-in
Interim Mull vessels bow and stern-in
New Mull Vessels (NMV) bow and stern-in

Project Timeline

The development of an outline business case commenced in February 2025 and will progress until spring 2026. During this period, our consultant, Royal Haskoning DHV, will be:

• Gathering data and engaging stakeholders.
• Conducting travel demand analysis.
• Providing the outline design of a preferred option.
• Commencing the potential consenting elements required, including a marine licence, HRO (Harbour Revision Order), dredging consent, and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

More information will be provided as the project progresses. Engagement with local communities and key stakeholders will be undertaken via public information sessions in the coming months.