Question reference: S4W-26206
- Asked by: Michael Russell, MSP for Argyll and Bute, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 19 June 2015
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Current status: Answered by Derek Mackay on 6 July 2015
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S4W-25867 by Derek MacKay on 10 June 2015, whether, prior to the procurement of these vessels, it will publish an estimate of the cost of the work required to upgrade existing piers and harbours to allow the vessels to serve the (a) 15 piers and harbours requiring no or only minor modification and (b) other piers and harbours on the CalMac route that can accommodate only vessels of a length of (i) 90m, (ii) 80m and (iii) 70m.
Answer
The objective of the specification for the new vessels was to meet forecast carrying capacities for passengers, vehicles and freight without the need for major harbour works. It was therefore anticipated that shoreside costs linked directly to the introduction of new vessels would be minimised and covered by existing budget allocations.
Prior to any contract award, Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd will ascertain that the new vessels will be suitable for the existing piers and harbours on the routes identified for their initial deployment. Minor modifications may be needed but it will not be possible to specify those, or their costs, until a vessel design has been finalised with the successful shipyard.
The cost of upgrading piers and harbours that cannot currently accommodate a vessel of 100m in length will be looked at in a forthcoming phase of the vessel replacement plan.