The high level of activity at Lerwick Harbour has meant the port’s latest deep-water quay - the third new one in 21 months - being brought into use immediately on completion this weekas part of an ongoing expansion of facilities.
The 100-metre Berth 7 at Greenhead Base provides an extension to a new 100-metre-plus quay added there in February 2012. Providing nine metres’ water depth, the two common-user quays service the oil and gas industry mainly.
Mair’s Quay, at 150 metres, completed this summer, will bring significant improvements in the fishing industry’s operations and provide the site for a replacement white fish market.
The three quays, at a total investment of £11.5 million, are part of a suite of quays and land reclamation consented in 2010, with the first contract award in December that year. Local contractor, Tulloch Developments, has successfully delivered the works on time and on budget, with design and supervision by Arch Henderson.
With three quays built within the last three years, the Authority is now turning its attention to its next capital projects as part of an ongoing investment plan.
Harbourmaster, Captain Calum Grains, said: “With the current high activity level, in the offshore sector in particular, and a positive outlook for the foreseeable future, the latest quay is a timely addition to our deep-water infrastructure. Development is ongoing to ensure we continue to meet new opportunities.”
Lerwick now has almost 4,000 metres of quay, including over 1,300 metres of deep-water berthing, following developments to accommodate larger vessels now operating. Investment of over £83 million by the Port Authority has taken place since the 1970s, much of it directed at the offshore industry. Additional laydown areas are being created and further deep-water berths are also in the pipeline.