A project to upgrade three remote harbours to accommodate the next generation of ferries, peatland restoration work surrounding Loch Katrine, and a city campus in Dunfermline were among the winning projects at this year’s Scottish Civil Engineering Awards.
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) and the Institution of Civil Engineers Scotland (ICE) welcomed civil engineers and contractors from across the country to the EICC in Edinburgh to celebrate the top infrastructure projects completed this year.
From a pool of 15 entries, this year’s awards covered a diverse range of categories including rail, natural infrastructure, placemaking, and infrastructure remediation.
Taking home the marine and overall project of the year was the New Islay Vessel Enabling Works. Delivered by George Leslie for CMAL, the works upgraded harbours at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay to accommodate larger hybrid ferries. Encompassing technical upgrades while supporting decarbonisation goals — all while working in remote locations with unpredictable weather conditions — judges were impressed by the scope of the project, saying, “Vital upgrades to marine infrastructure delivered through outstanding collaboration and innovation across three operational ports, overcoming significant marine and logistical challenges to secure resilient ferry connections for Scotland’s island communities for generations to come.”
CECA regional director David MacDonald said, “SCEA 2026 has once again shown the very best of the Scottish civil engineering sector, celebrating outstanding projects, exceptional people and an industry that continues to innovate deliver and make a real difference to Scotland. A fantastic lunch and a fitting way to celebrate talent, commitment and professionalism across the sector.”
The full list of award winners is:
- Natural Infrastructure: Peatland Restoration – Loch Katrine Phase 1
- Placemaking: Arbroath – A place for everyone
- Infrastructure Remediation: Kincardine XD130 Foundation and Access Remedial Works
- Rail Infrastructure: Markle Level Crossing
- Wastewater Infrastructure: Bertha Park Perth Tay Street Super Sewer
- The Building Civil Impact Award: Dunfermline City Campus
- Project of the Year and Marine: New Islay Vessel Enabling Works
