Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has welcomed confirmation from the Scottish Government that additional sailings will operate on the Sound of Harris this summer.

An additional 43 sailings will run between Berneray and Leverburgh from June to August to provide additional capacity in peak summer. They will be added to the timetable this summer on a permanent basis. The aim is also to provide more economic and social benefit for local people and businesses.

The islands’ MSP had repeatedly called for additional sailings on the Sound of Harris to cope with extra demand during the busy summer months.

Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“This is a very welcome development and one which I have continued to request over the past few years.

“There is clearly a capacity issue on the Sound of Harris, as the service has the highest utilisation of any Western Isles ferry route during the summer.

“I hope that these additional sailings will help to ease from of the congestion issues and make it easier for tourists and locals alike to get about during the busy summer months.”