Ferry access improvements

Further improvements will be made on Scotland’s ferry networks in the sixth round of awards from the Ferries Accessibility Fund.

Just over £72,000 of funding will go towards a number of projects to improve accessibility on-board vessels, as well as at ports and harbours. They include:

• Changing Places facilities on board the MV Hebrides.
• Upgrade of stair evacuation equipment on NorthLink ferries.
• Provision of a passenger shelter and wheel chairs at Mallaig Harbour.

The awards are made on a match funding basis.

Minister for Energy, Connectivity and the Islands Paul Wheelhouse said:

“I’m delighted to announce the latest round of awards from the Ferries Accessibility Fund, as we want Scotland’s ferry services to offer the best passenger experience possible to everyone.

“The improvements made through this fund in previous years have been a great success, so it’s very encouraging that more excellent proposals have been brought forward in this round.

“I’m particularly pleased to see Changing Places facilities being installed on board the MV Hebrides by CalMac which services the route between Uig on the lsle of Skye to Lochmaddy and Tarbert in the Western Isles.

“Our ferry operators already have strict standards to meet when it comes to accessibility but the projects backed by this fund will help them to go further. I look forward to seeing these new facilities being used by passengers.”