Fixed link deemed to be viable option in ferry service replacement

The construction of a bridge or tunnel across the Corran Narrows in West Lochaber has been deemed to be a viable proposition in replacing a long established ferry service.The conclusion was reached following a ‘high level’ feasibility study jointly funded by HITRANS, The Highland Council and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).The partners said that they believe a fixed link would ‘dramatically’ improve connectivity between Nether Lochaber and Ardgour and provide improved access to services and employment opportunities for those living in Ardnamurchan, Morvern and Mull.The study found that there are no ‘showstopper’ issues preventing the construction of such a fixed link, and that the costs of such a build would not be ‘out of step’ with the continued ferry service.A total of 72 scenarios were examined in the study, with three potential fixed links being marked as viable. These include a tunnel, a bridge along the existing ferry route or a bridge along the central corridor to the south of the ferry route.The partners estimate that construction costs of delivering the connection range from between £42 million to £50 million for the lowest cost bridge option, through to £66 million to £108 million for the tunnel. They added that such costs are beyond the resources of The Highland Council, therefore Transport Scotland is to be approached to support the funding of the project.