Huge pier extension block to be towed 235 miles

6 September 2022

Image source, George Leslie Ltd
Image caption,
A concrete structure called a caisson constructed in Belfast is to be towed to Lochmaddy in North Uist
Image source, George Leslie Ltd
Image caption,
It will take two boats to tow the caisson from Northern Ireland to the Western Isles
Image source, George Leslie Ltd
Image caption,
The structure is for Comhairle nan Eilean Siar's Lochmaddy Pier extension project
Image caption,
The caisson, nicknamed Block Maddy, is due to arrive in North Uist on Friday after travelling 235 miles

A 3,200-tonne concrete structure is to be towed 235 miles (378km) by sea from Belfast to Lochmaddy in North Uist.

The 33m (108ft) caisson will be used in Comhairle nan Eilean Siar's Lochmaddy Pier extension project.

The structure has been named Block Maddy - Bloca Loch nam Madadh in Gaelic - following a competition for local school children.

Civil Engineering contractor George Leslie Ltd said the caisson was expected to arrive in the Western Isles on Friday.

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