New £19m Jura ferry given the go-ahead
Getty ImagesA new ferry to serve Jura has been given the go-ahead after £19m worth of funding was confirmed.
Argyll and Bute Council Harbour Board said the Scottish government funding- covering the next two years - would go towards both a new ferry and any additional infrastructure required to support it.
The ferry route goes between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin on Jura, and has been served by the MV Eilean Dhiura since 1998.
The harbour board said the new ferry would be in use for at least 20 to 30 years.
Councillor Ross Moreland, chairman 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."
Work will now begin to scope out requirements for the vessel, covering things like capacity levels, fuel type, crew size and consideration of the waters it will sail in.
Changes required for shoreside infrastructure at Feolin and Port Askaig, to meet the requirements of the new ferry, will also be part of the work.
Updates on progress will be made to future meetings of the Harbour Board.