Tunnel to Western Isles reaches next stage

A Scottish government-backed deep-water terminal connecting the Western Isles has been handed over to operators.

Deputy first minister Shona Robison said it is planned to support future renewable energy developments and cruise ship opportunities on the islands. 

Robison said: “This significant infrastructure project will help unlock Stornoway – and the wider region’s – full economic potential both as a green energy gateway and a magnet for the lucrative cruise ship market, which is expected to be worth £13 billion globally by 2031.

“The completion of construction marks the culmination of dedicated partnership working – allowing us to create a development of real value, boosting the islands’ economy as part of our efforts to deliver economic growth in every part of Scotland.

She said the Scottish government is "fully committed to investing" in the rural and urban communities. The Western Isles are currently served by ferries that can be unreliable in bad weather.

The initiative has delivered a new terminal with a cruise ship berthing facility that can accommodate vessels more than 330 metres long and a new dock for large cargo vessels.

The project – which cost £49 million in total – is being supported with £33.7 million of Scottish government funding to help boost the island’s economy. 

This involved partnership working between the Scottish government, Stornoway Port Authority, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the local authority Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, and Visit Scotland.

Stornoway Port Authority signed the contract for construction of the deep-water terminal in March 2022.