PROJECT
SUMMARY
Construction of infrastructure enabling works to upgrade the existing berth facilities at Kennacraig, Port Askaig, and Colonsay to serve the CMALs new major vessels operating on the Islay routes.
PROJECT DETAIL
The new vessels are planned to have a larger beam, length, draught and displacement than the current vessels that serve the route, as well as having a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system. Enabling works to the three terminals are therefore necessary to safely and reliably berth, moor, load and unload the vessels at all four ports together with shore power for charging the vessels at Kennacraig and Port Askaig.
The focus of the New Islay Vessel Enabling Works at Kennacraig Ferry Terminal, which comprised of upgrading existing fenders, construction of a piled wall, construction of toe protection at existing secant pile walls, fabrication and erection of steel grillage, dredging, installation of new scour protection, installation of new vessel shore power and connections, modification to the existing fixed ramp and a new gangway
The Development is located on a small island off the coast of West Loch Tarbet. Kennacraig Ferry Terminal has an associated marshalling area to the south of the main building with an access road leading on to the A83 which runs perpendicular to the terminal.
Construction of infrastructure enabling works to upgrade the existing berth facilities at Kennacraig, Port Askaig, and Colonsay to serve the CMALs new major vessels operating on the Islay routes. The Works are described in detail within the Scope and include: Construction of new anchored steel piled walls, capping beams, and ground anchor systems; Capital dredging works to widen and deepen berth pockets and approach channels; Installation of pile toe collars and steel dowels; Installation of new, replacement, and upgraded quay fenders and mooring systems; Electrical works to facilitate future shore power charging facilities and associated systems; and Associated enabling works.
COLONSAY
Upgrading of existing pier infrastructure & dredging of the ferry berth on the isle of Colonsay consisted of : Strengthening the existing structure sub-sea with new king posts drilled into rock and tying back to the existing structure with new steel wailing beams; Dredging to lower seabed level to suit the new vessel profile; Removal and replacement of the existing rubber fenders on the pier roundhead with larger units.
The Specific Challenges/Solutions/Results i.e., ground conditions, tidal, weather etc. were Unpredictable ground conditions (either very hard rock or distinct lack of rock) which impacted both drilling, dredging & diving works. Adverse weather conditions had the ability to be severe enough that we had to halt works. Efficient planning however meant that we were very rarely fully stopped. All whilst maintaining the live ferry service throughout the works as well as additional cruise ships / unannounced fishing vessels or pleasure-craft. Good communication with Calmac throughout & set procedures in place for diving & pier works activities led to zero delays or impacts to service.
PORT ASKAIG
At Port Askaig site the following works were undertaken: Installation of 20 drilled rock anchors to support RC mooring aid foundation; Replacement of 10 MV fenders undertaken whilst maintaining ferry service; Refurbishment of 3. Parallel motion fenders during 6 week port closure (lifted out by afloat crane, taken by barge to Glasgow for refurbishment); Installation of 8 roundhead steelwork panels to strengthen precast structure. 3 of which included fendering. Installation of 4 large drawpits and duct runs between RC concrete bases for SSEN substation and mooring aid containment room. RC foundation for CMAL switchroom, suspended steel floor, GRP kiosk and electrical switchgear and cabling installation and a Cable ladder, cabling and protection along pier deck
The Specific Challenges/Solutions/Results i.e., ground conditions, tidal, weather etc were Island working; Tight special constraints on pier which could never be fully closed due to the multiple stakeholders/ pier users. Obstructions when installing rock anchors.
● Kennacraig Completion (South Berth) 21/08/2024
● Kennacraig Completion (North Berth) 04/03/2025
● Port Askaig Completion 10/08/2024
● Colonsay Completion 08/10/2024
