Argyll and Bute Council Harbour Board on Thursday (19 March) noted funding of £19.600m in total from the Scottish Government- over the next two years - for a new Jura ferry and any additional infrastructure required to support it.
Work will now begin to scope out the requirements for a unique vessel that will serve the community and the economy of Jura for the next 20 to 30 years. This will cover things like capacity levels, fuel type, crew size and consideration of the waters she will sail in.
Changes required for the shoreside infrastructure at Feolin and Port Askaig, to meet the requirements of the new vessel, will also be part of the works.
Works are at the preliminary stages of being determined and updates on progress will be made to future meetings of the Harbour Board.
Councillor Ross Moreland, chair of the Harbour Board, said: “This will be a long-term project involving engagement with, and the support of, the community, local businesses, and partners. I look forward to hearing more details as the project develops.”
