Gourock linkspan project delayed

Installation of the new linkspan at Gourock Ferry Terminal, which was meant to be completed just prior to Christmas this year, has been delayed and is now estimated to be completed early next year.

The delay to work at Gourock, which is used as an alternative port in bad weather for Arran and Bute ferries, is due to recently discovered issues with the berth structure which were uncovered during additional surveys.

A specialised craneship, the LARA 1 crane barge, removed the old linkspan at the start of November but subsequent infrastructure and underwater surveys have uncovered unexpected anomalies in the 50-year old berth, making it difficult to put the new linkspan into place.

The LARA 1 crane barge is currently at Gourock Ferry Terminal as part of plans to install the new linkspan this week, however, CMAL will carry out the necessary rectifications to the berth before lifting the linkspan in.

Paul Colenso, senior civil engineer at CMAL, said: ‘We’re extremely frustrated by this unexpected issue. Extensive surveys were conducted as part of the project planning process. However, the old linkspan was concealing issues that only became apparent through the technical checks we conducted after it was removed. This can happen with marine engineering projects, when positioning of harbour structures and water levels mean it is not possible to see everything.

‘Unfortunately, additional work is required to address the issues, which will inevitably cause delays. The programme for rectifying the issue has not yet been determined, but we anticipate the installation of the linkspan and the subsequent return of the berth to full operations will now be in January 2021. We will be able to provide more clarity around the revised programme in the next couple of weeks.’

The delivery of new fenders for the project has also been delayed. The fenders are on a container ship waiting to enter the port of Felixstowe, which is currently experiencing issues with delays and stockpiles created by the Covid-19 pandemic. It is understood though, the ship is expected to enter the port imminently.

The fenders are essential to complete the project and allow the linkspan to be commissioned for use.

CMAL, which owns Gourock Ferry Terminal, started the linkspan project in October, with an original completion date of Wednesday December 3. As well as repairing the linkspan supports, the project includes replacing the steel deck and associated mechanical and electrical equipment.

When complete, Gourock will once again be available as an alternative mainland port for vehicle services.