THE PROCUREMENT of two new freight ferries for the Northern Isles network is progressing to the ‘invite to tender’ stage – with the project estimated to cost £200 million. The first stage of the competitive tender process assessed shipyards interested in bidding for the contract against specific criteria including facilities, capacities and capabilities to take on the project. There would be space for up to 200 passengers in peak months. The estimated £200 million cost covers both vessels as well as other projects costs including shore power upgrades. Advertisement 1 of 11Tender returns are expected by late November, with a view to awarding the contract in February 2026.