Seven new electric ferries confirmed for Scotland

The Scottish Government has announced the building of seven new electric ferries for Scotland’s island communities.

Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop said the competitive process for procuring the small vessels would begin on Tuesday.

The minister said she expects the process to last around eight months before the contract is awarded.

The announcement came in response to SNP MSP for Aberdeen Donside Jackie Dunbar who asked when an update would be provided on phase 1 of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme.

Responding, Hyslop wrote: “The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to improving, decarbonising and modernising the small ferry fleet and better meeting the needs of island residents, businesses and communities.

“After careful consideration of the SVRP Phase 1 outline business case and procurement options, I can announce that a competitive process will begin today to secure delivery of seven new electric vessels for our small vessels fleet.

“This will be progressed by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited as the procuring authority.

“It is expected that the relevant processes will be completed in around eight months, at which point a contract can then be awarded.

“I will provide further updates to Parliament at key stages of the procurement process.”

Kevin Hobbs, CEO of CMAL, said: “We welcome the Scottish Government’s decision to progress the SVRP.

“What matters for us is being able to move forward with our plans to improve the fleet with new vessels.

“This is great news for island communities, and we look forward to delivering the all-electric lifeline vessels over the coming years.”