Northern Ireland civil engineering contractor Charles Brand has begun work on a new marina slipway at Tarbert Harbour after being awarded the £1.6 million construction contract for the £2.2 million redevelopment project.
The project that aims to strengthen marine tourism, expand commercial boating facilities and support long-term economic growth in the Argyll fishing village on Scotland's west coast.
The development will deliver a new marina slipway, additional hard-standing for boats and up to 30 extra parking spaces. Construction has started and is due for completion in March 2027.
The £1.6 million construction contract has been awarded to Northern Ireland civil engineering contractor Charles Brand following a competitive tender process. The overall project cost, including design, equipment and associated works, is £2.2 million and is funded by Tarbert Harbour Authority with support from Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Crown Estate Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council and the Skipness Community Trust.
Future Vision — An artist's impression shows the new marina slipway planned for Tarbert Harbour, part of a £2.2 million redevelopment that will expand lifting facilities, hard standing and shoreside access
The new facility is designed to handle leisure and small commercial vessels of up to 25 tonnes. It will provide year-round lifting, winter storage and maintenance services including wash-down, antifouling, engine servicing and rigging.
Well known to Irish cruising sailors and as the home of Scottish Series, where Irish boats have enjoyed repeated success, Tarbert is already an established destination on the Clyde sailing calendar. The new facilities are expected to strengthen that appeal.
Tarbert Harbour Authority says the investment forms part of a wider regeneration programme focused on sustainable marine tourism and improving harbour infrastructure. Future plans also include a community watersports hub and kayak pontoon to increase public access to the waterfront.
The authority expects the combined developments to create three full-time jobs alongside apprenticeship opportunities.
Senior Port Manager and Harbour Master Darren Mair described the project as "a major development in the regeneration of the village", saying it would reinforce Tarbert's reputation as a base for boat ownership, repair and maintenance while attracting more visitors to the harbour.
He added that creating new jobs and apprenticeships would help preserve traditional marine skills for future generations, and confirmed the marina will remain fully operational throughout construction.
The project is one of several harbour improvements undertaken over the past 18 months by Tarbert Harbour Authority, the not-for-profit trust port established in 1912 that operates the harbour for the benefit of the local community.
