Port masterplan to look at long-term opportunities
Stornoway Port Authority is to launch a consultation next month on its first “masterplan” in a decade, covering the key areas which are under the port’s control.
The plans include disposal of assets currently owned by the Port at Goat Island.
Speaking at the annual reception held in Lews Castle last week, Margaret Ann Macleod, chair of the port’s board, said: “Our harbour has shaped Stornoway for generations and this masterplan is about looking ahead to what the town and the islands will need over the coming decades.
“It will help guide where we invest, how to make the best use of land and infrastructure and where there may be opportunities for others to play a role”.
Ms Macleod continued: “Goat Island is just one example. The Port has operated there for 75 years and having considered the options, we believe the time is right for someone else to take the slipway forward as a commercial business.
“We are currently investigating opportunities around this. We know this change is the right decision for the Port, our economy and for our customers”.
The gathering, attended by more than 100 representatives of local companies, investors in the island economy and other interests, also heard a call for a permanent, dedicated freight ferry between Stornoway and Ullapool.
Ms Macleod said the Port had engaged consultants and “all the data driven reports agree” on the need for a dedicated ferry, not simply a vessel brought in to support a particular project”. Stating that the route is already at capacity, Ms Macleod called on “those in the room with influence to ensure action is taken to address this serious matter”.
On the season’s cruise ship business, chief executive Alex Macleod said: “We expect 70,000 cruise passengers with an economic impact of almost £9 million ...What is particularly encouraging is the impact beyond the Port.
“More shops are opening, the high street is bustling and feedback from those on board has been fantastic. The local community are being very supportive and welcoming. It’s important for us to manage this closely”.
Mr Macleod also confirmed they would be in a position “over the next month” to award the first major contract which would get work underway on a new passenger access system for the ferry.
He said: “We are reaching an important stage in delivering the replacement. From an operational perspective, we have had to look carefully at how a new system will work. Rather than replacing the previous system like-for-like, we have taken the opportunity to develop a solution that prioritises resilience. We need something that is safe, resilient and robust for the long term”.
On the port’s prospects, Mr Macleod said: “A few years ago, there was some pessimism as to what we could achieve. Increasingly, we can point to what is actually happening. We want to see more vessels alongside, more activity at Arnish and as much of the economic opportunity from renewables as possible captured here in the islands”.