Highland Council has initiated the procurement process to acquire a new multi-million-pound electric ferry for the Corran Narrows crossing, one of Scotland's most heavily used single-vessel routes. The new vessel is expected to enter service between late 2028 and early 2029, subject to the completion of the tender process and construction timelines.
The existing ferry, the MV Corran, is 25 years old and has experienced multiple breakdowns in recent years, prompting the need for replacement. The council aims to award the vessel contract in March 2027, with the new electric ferry designed to carry up to 32 cars, or 16 cars and two heavy goods vehicles, according to the vessel specification.
The project forms part of a broader £58m investment programme under the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which includes infrastructure improvements on both sides of the crossing between Ardgour and Nether Lochaber. The Scottish government has allocated £28m towards the ferry procurement, while the UK government is contributing £20m for shoreside infrastructure enhancements.
What infrastructure improvements are underway?
Construction on the ferry infrastructure scheme began in March 2026, with Charles Brand Group Limited appointed as principal contractor, and the works expected to take 18 months. The infrastructure contract encompasses overnight berthing facilities, slipways, local road improvements, seabed dredging, and charging infrastructure. The project also includes a new toilet building and marshalling area at Nether Lochaber.
According to the tender documentation, four bids were received for the infrastructure contract, which was ultimately awarded to Charles Brand Group Ltd. The overnight berthing facility will provide a 1,250 kVA shore-power supply to enable the electric ferry to charge when not in service.
How will the new ferry improve the crossing?
Ken Gowans, chairman of Highland Council's economy and infrastructure committee, described reaching the procurement stage as a
significant milestone. The investment is intended to strengthen the long-term future and resilience of the crossing, which serves as a critical transport link for the region.
Once the new vessel becomes operational, the current MV Corran will be retained as a relief ferry. The existing backup vessel, the 51-year-old Maid of Glencoul, will then be retired after more than five decades of service. The total cost of the new electric ferry will not be confirmed until the tender process concludes.
What do government partners say?
Stephen Flynn, Scottish government transport secretary, stated that
These projects highlight the value of partnership working between the Scottish government and City-Region Deal partners to strengthen connectivity, drive economic growth and build more resilient communities across the Highlands. He emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring communities have the infrastructure necessary to thrive.
What happens next?
The vessel tender is currently open and due to close on 10 November 2026. Highland Council is preparing the vessel tender in partnership with Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), though it has retained the option to run an independent procurement if a joint approach through CMAL's Small Vessels Replacement Programme does not proceed. Subject to successful procurement and construction, the new ferry is anticipated to enter service between late 2028 and early 2029.
Key Facts:
- The new electric ferry will carry up to 32 cars or 16 cars and two HGVs
- Total project investment is £58m, funded by Scottish and UK governments
- Infrastructure construction began in March 2026 with an expected 18-month timeline
- The vessel contract is targeted for award in March 2027
- The 51-year-old relief ferry will be retired once the new vessel enters service
