Construction begins on transformational Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme

10th March 2026

Construction on the Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme (CFIIS) begins, marking a major step forward in delivering a modern, reliable, and future‑ready ferry service for the Corran Narrows.

Funded through the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal (IHCRD), the £58m transport/ferry investment marks a pivotal time for one of the busiest single-vessel routes in Scotland.

The Highland Council has appointed Charles Brand Group Limited as the principal contractor for the landside infrastructure programme, with works programmed for 18 months, with completion expected summer 2027.

Convener of The Highland Council, Cllr 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."

Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr 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 (IHCRD) - £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 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."

Business and Employment Minister Richard Lochhead said: "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."

To enable this upgraded service, the programme includes a new slipway and overnight berthing pier at Ardgour, as well as a new slipway, breakwater, marshalling area, parking, cycle path, and improved public facilities on the Nether Lochaber side, north of the Corran settlement.

Throughout construction, the principal contractor and Council project team will hold regular community liaison meetings. These will be open to all, offering a welcoming space to hear about project updates and for residents to raise questions or concerns.

The new infrastructure has been designed with maximum flexibility to serve both the existing MV Corran and the new electric vessel, paving the way for long‑term resilience, reduced downtime, and a stronger, more reliable connection for the communities, businesses, and visitors who depend on the service every day.

PHOTO
L-R - Eilidh Budge IHCRD Project Officer, Cheryl Townsley IHCRD Project Manager, Cllr Kate Willis - Chair of Lochaber Area Committee, Richard Porteous - THC Corran Ferry Operations, Cllr John Grafton - Lochaber Area Committee - Ward 11, Centre - Convener of The Highland Council, Cllr Bill Lobban, Ryan Lavery - Charles Brand Group -Construction Manager, Patrick Harney - Charles Brand Group- Director, Gary Kennedy - THC Senior Engineer Project Management, Design & Construction, Florence Carghill - THC Assistant Project Manager - Project Design Unit, Economy & Infrastructure Chair of The Highland Council - Cllr Ken Gowans