Project Description

Project Overview

AGM Group was appointed by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) to deliver the full refurbishment of the Castlebay Ferry Terminal on the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides. The project’s goal was twofold: to enhance the customer experience with improved amenities and to extend the lifespan of the building’s external envelope — including the roof, walls, and windows.

AGM Group has proudly partnered with CMAL for over 15 years, working across multiple ferry terminals including Ardrossan, Fishnish, Port Glasgow, Colintraive, Gourock, Lochranza, Oban, Portavadie, Wemyss Bay, Port Ellen, Tiree, Rothesay, and Mallaig. Our longstanding relationship and proven track record for quality made us the contractor of choice following a competitive tender process.

Scope of Works

The refurbishment encompassed a wide range of structural and interior upgrades:

• Demolition and Structural Works: Selected internal areas were demolished to allow for structural enhancements. New purlins and a traditional Aerodeck roof system were installed, alongside new gutters, fascias, and soffits.
• Interior Reconfiguration: Steel lintels and support columns were fitted to form new internal openings, creating space for a redesigned layout including:
• A modern waiting area
• New reception and ticketing counter
• Upgraded toilet facilities (DDA compliant)
• Staff welfare areas, including drying cupboards for wet weather gear
• Accessibility Improvements: Due to the building’s sloped site, a bespoke Melody 3 Platform Lift from Stannah Lift Services, along with new stairs and handrails, was installed to ensure full accessibility.
• Mechanical & Electrical Upgrades:
• Modern electric heating systems
• Mechanical ventilation in line with CIBSE standards
• Emergency lighting and signage
• CCTV and intruder alarm systems
• Disabled toilet alarms and induction loop systems
• IT and power installations

Custom-built features, such as a glass-screened reception desk with integrated ticketing system, completed the fit-out to meet CMAL’s operational requirements.

Project Challenges

Working in the remote location of the Outer Hebrides brought significant logistical and environmental challenges:

• Weather Conditions: Harsh and unpredictable weather, particularly during winter months, required strategic scheduling to protect weather-sensitive works like roofing and window installation.
• Transport & Access: Limited ferry crossings and transport delays impacted the delivery of materials and personnel. Meticulous planning and flexible staffing arrangements were essential to maintain progress.

Our Approach

With extensive experience working in remote locations, AGM Group implemented a proactive logistics strategy. Our supply chain methodology ensured consistent delivery of materials, minimizing downtime and staying ahead of schedule. Our dedicated team demonstrated exceptional commitment—often extending their stay on the island to ensure continuity and efficiency throughout the project.

Why CMAL Chose AGM Group

CMAL’s procurement was conducted through the Public Contracts Scotland platform, with evaluation criteria based on quality, experience, and value. AGM Group’s competitive tender, combined with our extensive portfolio of successful projects in similar environments, positioned us as the ideal contractor for this refurbishment.

The Result

The Castlebay Ferry Terminal refurbishment was completed successfully, with CMAL expressing strong satisfaction with the final result. This project represents another milestone in our ongoing partnership with CMAL and adds to AGM Group’s proud legacy of delivering high-quality infrastructure in some of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful locations.