Project summary

Notable for overcoming the significant challenges presented by the worst winter weather on record in the remote Kintyre peninsula, we completed the £4.2m extension of Kennacraig’s existing ferry terminal to accommodate the introduction of the MV Finlaggan – a drive-through vehicle and passenger ferry.

Ensuring no disruption to the port’s busy operations, we implemented a range of value and risk engineering solutions, including the construction of a stone filled temporary dolphin, which significantly improved the efficiency of construction for programme surety while reducing health and safety challenges.

The detail

Recognised by appointed Engineer Halcrow Group Limited for being “proactive and professional”, we delivered the Kennacraig Ferry Terminal extension on time and with no delays to the arrival of the new MV Finlaggan service.

Features of our programme, which included 24/7 working to recoup minor delays resulting from the worst ravages of the winter weather, included a new large open piled berthing dolphin, rock dredging, repairs to existing sheet pile walls, replacement of fuel lines and water supply facilities and the reprofiling of existing concrete ramps.

Our alternative design development, and construction sequence, were notable for the benefits deriving from their greater degree of flexibility. For example, the completion of Section A works prior to the arrival of the MV Finlaggan provided improved certainty in achieving programme completion. The construction of a temporary sheet piled dolphin off the line of the ferry berth, creating a safe zone between our works and the ferries, was an additional innovative method implemented.