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Releases >MVA Consultancy appointed by CMAL to investigate transport needs for Stornoway to Ullapool
MVA Consultancy appointed by CMAL to investigate transport needs for Stornoway to Ullapool
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MVA Consultancy has been commissioned by Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) to deliver a STAG appraisal which will review access options for Stornoway to Ullapool.
The Stornoway to Ullapool route is currently serviced by the vehicle and passenger ferry MV Isle of Lewis and the MV Muirneag which is a freight only service. Both ferries are currently operated by CalMac Ferries Ltd.
The MV Isle of Lewis offers a twice daily return service and the MV Muirneag provides an overnight freight service. However the MV Muirneag is due to be de-commissioned after 2013 due to its age and increasing maintenance costs.
Following the development of a detailed project plan, CMAL and MVA will now consult with the Scottish Government, local authorities and local communities to develop potential options for the route.
The appraisal will also give specific consideration to the Scottish Government’s objectives for the environment, safety, economy, integration and accessibility.
It is expected that the study will be completed by March 2009.
MVA project director Paul McCartney said: “Ferry services to the Western Isles play an important role in maintaining and improving the economic and social wellbeing of the local communities. MVA is pleased to be involved in an important study which will make a positive contribution to the future prosperity of the Islands.”
Andrew Duncan, director of vessels at CMAL, added: “CMAL is very pleased to be working with MVA consultancy on this interesting and important appraisal.
“The link between Stornoway and Ullapool is one of the principal transport routes between the Scottish mainland and the Outer Hebrides and it is essential that stakeholders and the Scottish Government are fully consulted on the possible options and recommendations for this route.”
Information for Editors:
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, MVA Consultancy provides advice on transport and other policy areas, to central, regional and local government, agencies, developers, operators and financiers.
A diverse group of results-oriented people, we are part of a 500-strong team worldwide. Through client business planning, customer research and strategy development we create solutions that work for real people in the real world.
- STAG involves the appraisal of generated options which could potentially address identified problems and opportunities against a range of criteria, including value for money. As such, the STAG Report provides the Strategic Business Case for options taken forward. See Transport Scotland’s website for further details: http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/node/3171
- CMAL owns property at piers and harbours at more than 21 locations throughout Scotland. CMAL are embarking on a programme of investment and improvements which will create better facilities and more opportunities for additional ferry services.
- CMAL own or lease harbour facilities and infrastructure at Armadale, Brodick, Castlebay, Claonaig, Colintraive, Coll, Colonsay, Cumbrae, Fishnish, Gourock, Kennacraig, Kilchoan, Largs, Lochaline, Lochboisdale, Lochranza, Oban, Port Ellen, Portavadie, Rhubodach, Tarbert (Harris), Tiree, Tobermory, Wemyss Bay.
- In addition to its pier and harbour facilities CMAL owns 31 ferries which are leased to CalMac Ferries Ltd and Cowal Ferries Ltd. Last November CMAL placed an order for a modern £22m ferry for the route serving Islay from the mainland.
- CMAL is a publicly owned company with Scottish Ministers as the sole shareholder. CMAL has its headquarters in Port Glasgow.
For further information please contact:
Emma O'Sullivan on 01483 742925
or email eosullivan@mvaconsultancy.com
or
Sarah White on 01483 742975
or email swhite@mvaconsultancy.com
28 October 2008
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