‘Substantial risk’ if ferry contract was given to Fergusons – Forbes

Scottish ministers are to invest a further £14m in the Ferguson Marine Port Glasgow shipyard.

The announcement came after the government confirmed the yard would not be directly awarded a contract to replace CalMac’s ageing fleet of small ferries, with the contract put out to competitive tender.

Ferguson Marine has overseen the long-delayed delivery of two larger ferries for CalMac’s busy Arran route.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said direct award would have meant “substantial risks and uncertainties” due to UK subsidy laws.

Phase one of the small vessels replacement programme (SVRP) will involve replacing seven ferries on the Clyde and Hebrides network with all-electric boats.

It is estimated to cost about £175m, with up to three more ferries to follow in phase two.