A SCOTTISH harbour has received a £1.2 million funding boost towards major plans for an ultra-deep-water quay.
The proposed plans at Dales Voe, Shetland, aim to expand Lerwick Harbour Authority’s ability to take on more work for decommissioning oil and gas infrastructure and renewable projects at the port.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) announced this week it has pledged £1.175 million towards the work which will see the dredging and deepening of areas adjacent to the quayside and approaches at Dales Voe to -16 metres.
The work will coincide with another significant dredging project that is already underway in Lerwick Harbour in a bid to enhance the port’s deep-water capabilities.
Its Shetland area manager, Katrina Wiseman, welcomed HIE’s commitment to ensuring Shetland remains at the “forefront of the renewable energy transition”.
“The development of an ultra-deep-water quay at Dales Voe will significantly strengthen the region’s infrastructure, supporting the next generation of offshore energy and decommissioning activity,” Wiseman said.
“Further development of enabling infrastructure, coupled with Shetland’s strategic location, infrastructure, skilled workforce and experience, ensure the islands continue to be an attractive location for inward investment and the creation of high-quality jobs.”
The quay at Dales Voe is already a deep-water facility and has played a key role in major oil and gas decommissioning projects, including the Ninian Northern production topsides and jacket.
However, the ultra-deep-water quay will increase the port’s ability to secure more decommissioning projects, along with offshore renewable schemes.
The expansion would allow large floating structures to be transferred to the quayside, supporting preparation for installation and maintenance.
LPA chief executive captain Calum Grains said the project was a “significant investment in the future capability of Lerwick Harbour and the wider Shetland economy”.
“The support from of Highlands and Islands Enterprise has been instrumental in enabling us to deliver infrastructure that will serve the energy industry for decades to come,” he said.
It gives confidence in the harbour’s role as a gateway for growth, and we are proud to be working together to realise that potential.”
Energy secretary Gillian Martin added that this investment would “unlock enormous economic opportunities for Shetland and Scotland as a whole”.
