Construction has officially begun on the £58 million Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme, marking a major step towards a modern and more reliable ferry service across the Corran Narrows.
The project, funded through the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal, represents one of the most significant transport investments in Lochaber and will support the introduction of a new electric ferry.
Highland Council has appointed Charles Brand Group Limited as the principal contractor for the landside infrastructure works.
Construction is expected to take around eighteen months, with the upgraded infrastructure scheduled to be completed in summer 2027.
The Corran Ferry route is one of the busiest single vessel ferry crossings in Scotland and provides a vital connection for communities, businesses and visitors travelling between Lochaber and the Ardnamurchan peninsula.
Convener of Highland Council Councillor Bill Lobban said:
“Today marks the official start of the CFIIS landside project, a significant milestone delivered through years of collaborative partnership work to secure the investment needed for a reliable, future proof service for Lochaber.
“A new vessel and modern supporting infrastructure are crucial to meeting the long term sustainability of the Corran Ferry service.
“I look forward to seeing the CFIIS progress and the benefits it will bring to our communities for decades to come.”
The infrastructure improvements are designed to support the arrival of a new electric ferry that will replace the existing service vessel.
Chair of Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Ken Gowans said:
“The Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme represents a major milestone in delivering a new electric vessel for the Corran Narrows service.
“The Council has worked diligently with stakeholders, and both the Scottish and UK Governments over many years to secure the necessary investment for this transformative project.
“Through the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal £20m from the UK Government and £10m from The Highland Council is funding the landside infrastructure.
“In addition, The Scottish Government has confirmed £28m to support the delivery of the new electric Corran Ferry vessel.
“This investment is not just about improving connectivity and reliability for Lochaber communities, it is about strengthening the lifeline that supports our local economy, sustains our communities, and unlocks opportunities for growth.”
UK Government Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said the ferry service is essential for local communities.
“The Corran Ferry is a vital lifeline for the Lochaber region and peninsular communities, and I am delighted that construction work is now underway on this crucial project.
“The UK Government is proud to support the Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme with a £20 million investment under the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal.
“The new landside infrastructure this funding helps provide will lay the foundation for a more dependable and sustainable ferry service, ensuring local communities and businesses have the connection they need to thrive.”
Scottish Government Business and Employment Minister Richard Lochhead said the project will support economic growth while reducing emissions.
“The start of these works is a major step towards delivering a modern, reliable ferry service that supports communities on both sides of the Corran Narrows.
“The infrastructure will support our £28 million investment in a new Corran Ferry, giving businesses and communities in Lochaber and Ardnamurchan the reliable transport links needed to thrive.
“The new electric ferry will cut emissions and improve air quality as we continue to build a sustainable, greener ferry network.
“It is being supported through a wider £135 million Scottish Government City Deal investment to create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth across the Highlands.”
The project includes a new slipway and overnight berthing pier at Ardgour along with major improvements on the Nether Lochaber side north of the Corran settlement.
Work will also deliver a new slipway, breakwater, marshalling area, parking facilities, cycle path and improved public amenities.
The upgraded infrastructure has been designed to operate with both the existing MV Corran ferry and the new electric vessel when it enters service.
Highland Council said the improvements will help deliver a more resilient service with reduced downtime while strengthening a transport link relied upon daily by residents, businesses and visitors.
