The Ullapool linkspan was due to close to vehicular traffic for a period of six weeks from 22nd February to allow the new replacement linkspan to be fitted. However, delays to the Stornoway upgrade, necessary for the new 8,680gt/2014 built Loch Seaforth to make a full service debut on the Stornoway-Ullapool service, means that the closure has now been postponed until 20th April (for a duration of up to 5 weeks) instead of addressing all issues in the winter period.

The revised sailing schedule during the period of disruption will be up to two daily return sailings from Stornoway to Uig for passengers and vehicles; one daily return sailing from Stornoway to Uig for freight; two daily return sailings from Stornoway to Ullapool for passengers only (Loch Seaforth) and an enhanced service (peak season level) on the Uig to Tarbert route. The improvement work at Ullapool is being funded by the Ullapool Harbour Trust and Transport Scotland.