A new linkspan is to be built at Oban ferry terminal and Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is seeking a principal contractor.
The terminal’s original linkspan, predominantly used by the Mull ferry service, has reached the end of its serviceable life and needs to be replaced. The existing support structures will also be strengthened as part of the project.
Work will take place in February and March next year. It will use cutting-edge building information modelling (BIM), an intelligent 3D model process that supports construction projects with tools and insights to assist planning, design and engineering decisions.
The berth will be closed during the works. Ferry operator CalMac will work to minimise any disruption during this period by running an amended timetable for the duration of the contract, operating from berth number two. Detailed information on temporary service changes will be published on the winter 2018 timetable later this year.
Ruairidh Campbell, senior civil engineer at CMAL said: “This contract is part of our ongoing programme of harbour upgrades and modifications across our network to provide safe and efficient lifeline ferry services to communities around Scotland. This particular project provides the appointed supplier with a unique opportunity to develop skills in 3D modelling and gain experience delivering a project using BIM.
“Interested suppliers can find out more and ask questions at our supplier information day later this month.
“We are always mindful of the impact of harbour upgrade work on ferry services and the people who use them. While berth one will be closed for the duration of the work to replace the linkspan, all services will run from berth two.”
CMAL is hosting a supplier information day on Wednesday.