Linkspan maintenance work begins at Oban harbour

Work is scheduled to start today (Thursday January 23) on linkspan number two at Oban Harbour, writes David McPhee.

The linkspan, which is a drawbridge used to move vehicles on and off a ferry, will be out of action for 10 days in order to replace the lifting cylinders.

During this time vessels will use the linkspan at berth number one, which was replaced earlier this year.

Minimal disruption to services is expected, however passengers should refer to CalMac’s website for further information: www.calmac. co.uk/service-status

CMAL has programmed the work to coincide with the annual dry-docking of MV Isle of Lewis, which is the only vessel sailing at Oban harbour which is unable to use linkspan number one.

Ramsay Muirhead, director of port infrastructure and planning at CMAL, said: ‘This project is part of our on-going programme of harbour upgrades and modifications across our network to provide safe and efficient lifeline ferry services to communities around Scotland.

‘We have worked closely with the contractor and CalMac to ensure there is as little disruption to services as possible.’

CalMac’s director of operations Robert Morrison said: ‘We are pleased to say that we have been able to amend the timetable so that there is no reduction in overall sailings while this work is carried out.

‘However, operating from one linkspan means that our turnaround for sailings is much tighter, so I would urge all passengers to pay particular attention to the vehicle and passenger checkin times for their sailing and to arrive in plenty of time.’