![Shapinsay Ferry serving Orkney Islands [© Robbie Thomson]](/assets/news_articles/2025/07/1752130131_shapinsay-ferry-orkney-islands---copyright-robbie-thomson.jpeg)
The 拢1.3m consultancy project will deliver outline designs for both vessels and supporting infrastructure for Orkney鈥檚 inter-island transport network 鈥� excluding the larger Outer North Isles.
The ferry replacement programme is an initiative to modernise Orkney鈥檚 ageing fleet, which provides a vital connection between the islands. For communities, some with fewer than 100 residents, these ferries are lifelines, providing access to goods, services, healthcare, education and employment.
Phase two of the programme will see Arch Henderson and its partner, Leadship Design & Consulting, develop outline vessel designs and associated shore side infrastructure for Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay, Graemsay and Hoy, Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre, Shapinsay, Flotta and Hoy networks.
This stage will also lay the foundation for future decarbonisation of the fleet, including the use of shore power and hybrid vessels. Phase one, currently under way and led by Knud E Hansen, focuses on vessels serving the Outer North Isles, with initial work completed by Leadship Design & Consulting.
Alongside the ferry replacement, Arch Henderson will lead phase two of the Orkney harbours masterplan, following its delivery of phase one, which involved assessing harbour infrastructure across the islands, focusing on supporting key sectors such as the offshore wind industry.
Phase two will align harbour and pier upgrades with the new ferry designs to ensure a future-ready transport system. Arch Henderson will explore the use of photogrammetry for infrastructure assessments above and below water 鈥� which will provide efficiencies in time and cost, as well as reducing health and safety risks related to diving operations. Additionally, Orkney Islands Council will have a digital record ready for future assessments or works.
The project marks Arch Henderson鈥檚 first major commission since being acquired by Dutch consulting engineer Haskoning in April 2025, adding global capabilities in master planning and environmental consultancy to its local knowledge.
Following a period of consultation, outline designs for both vessels and pier/harbour upgrades are expected by autumn 2026, followed by pier ground investigation works and final design development.
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