The second phase in a major upgrade of Scrabster Harbor in Caithness, the North of Scotland, has secured up to £3 million investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
According to the HIE official announcement, the funding will enable the redevelopment of the existing St. Ola pier to create further deep-water infrastructure and meet anticipated demand from cruise ships and offshore energy supply vessels. It will place the port in an ideal position to service activity in the West of Shetland basin.
Under the development plan, a new piled quay wall and pier deck will be installed to expand the existing pier. Both the inner and outer side of the pier will be dredged to create water depth of no less than 9m, and a reclamation area with revetment at the root of the pier will provide storage for cargo handling.
Cruise ships of up to 250 meters and supply vessels up to 170 meters will be able to use the upgraded pier.
On completion, the £17 million project is expected to increase vessel tonnage and port revenues by 18% and support an additional 28 jobs.