Annual Review at 31st October 2011

The trading year to 31st October 2011 has been a successful year for the Port and despite continued pressures placed on the Scottish fishing fleet as a result of EU Policy, the Port remains the largest nethrops Port in the UK and one of the biggest in Europe. It was also good to see during the year, good landings of both whitefish and pelagic stocks

During the year, monies were obtained from the Scottish Government for carrying out significant repairs and maintenance, as part of a continued Policy of the Commissioners to ensure a safe and efficient working environment for all Port users. September 2011 saw the reward of a substantial Grant from the Scottish Government for the deepening of the North Harbour, the work for which is expected to start in April 2012. The estimated cost of the project is £11m and at the time of writing the project work is now out for tender. The project when completed will add a greater flexibility to the operation of the Port and provide a strong base for the attraction of (a) additional vessel repair work and (b) the development of the Port for servicing offshore renewable energy

The Commissioners are also committed, subject to obtaining planning permission to construct two wind turbines in the harbour area and also a plan to introduce more capital investment for the enhancement of electricity power in the harbour area for future industrial expansion. Although, in December 2011, fishing talks in Brussels created yet more potential problems for our fishing fleet, the Commissioners are confident that their continued investment in the Harbour will give confidence not only to our fishing fleet but also to other potential harbour users and ensuring that the Harbour continues to play a significant role in maintaining the stability of our local economy

Mr Peter Bruce
Convenor