The Corran Ferry operated successfully for 98.5 per cent of its available operating period during the first nine months of 2026, according to figures presented to Highland councillors.
Members of the Lochaber Area Committee met on Monday 9 November to review the ferry service alongside community funding, local investment and the future of burial grounds across the area.
Between 1 January and 30 September, the Corran Ferry experienced two breakdowns lasting two days each, accounting for 1.5 per cent of the 273 day operating period.
The crossing remains an essential transport connection for residents, businesses and visitors, making reliability particularly important for communities that depend on the service.
Councillors were advised that the Council’s contingency arrangements are activated immediately whenever the ferry is unavailable, helping maintain access and reduce disruption.
Progress is also continuing on the Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme, with the Council reporting that work remains aligned with its key project timelines.
Lochaber Area Committee Chair Councillor Kate Willis said:
“The November Lochaber Committee meeting highlighted the broad range of work being undertaken across Lochaber to support our communities.
“From maintaining the vital Corran Ferry connection, to investing in community projects through local funding streams and planning for future burial provision.
“The Committee welcomed the progress being made across a number of important services to meet the needs of Lochaber residents now and into the future.”
Beyond transport, councillors considered the management of the Lochaber Common Good Fund and its role in protecting assets held for the benefit of local communities.
Members also approved allocations from the Area Committee’s Discretionary Budget to support community initiatives across Lochaber.
Another important discussion concerned the future of local burial grounds, with three cemeteries included in the capital programme expected to reach capacity within the next ten years.
At Glen Nevis Burial Ground, site clearance and substantial drainage work have already been completed in preparation for a proposed extension.
Trial excavations are scheduled for November, with a planning application expected to follow once the necessary investigations have been completed.
Subject to satisfactory ground conditions and planning approval, construction could begin in early 2027, potentially extending the cemetery’s available capacity by a further 20 years.
At Kinlochmore Burial Ground, investigations are continuing into a suitable location for a replacement cemetery.
Trial excavations have already taken place at a potential site, and the Council is awaiting the final report before determining the next steps.
Meanwhile, land adjoining Morar Beoraid Burial Ground has been secured and fenced off to accommodate a future extension.
The burial ground programme reflects the need to plan ahead for essential community facilities, particularly where suitable land and ground conditions can limit expansion options.
The committee also reviewed budgets and proposed maintenance work intended to ensure burial facilities remain accessible and sustainable for local communities.
The meeting concluded with councillors thanking Andrew Baxter for his service to Highland Council and the people of Lochaber as he prepares to leave his position as a local ward councillor.
Members wished him well for the future, recognising his contribution to the communities he has represented.
