Changes to Perth Harbour Board

Perth Harbour Board has made two new appointments and pledged to review its dredging plan for the River Tay.

The board changes follow the departure of the harbour master and his deputy.

Brian Meldrum has been appointed interim harbour master, supported by Nick Horner, a previous harbour master, on an advisory capacity.

Councillor Chris Ahern, chairman of Perth Harbour Board, said: “The harbour board has met and agreed that transitional arrangements have been put in place to ensure the continuity of harbour operations.

“Pilotage will continue to be available through the Tay River Pilot Association.

“Serge Merone, harbour duty holder and investment manager, will take direct responsibility for commercial development and for the dredging project with the external adviser’s support.”

He added: “The board has reviewed the dredging project plan for the River Tay downstream of the harbour. The Marine Scotland licence application has been submitted with a target date of January 31 for the licence to be issued.

“A decision on the contract tender will be subject to approval by Perth and Kinross Council’s strategic policy and resources committee.

“The board will provide a progress report to the council on November 29, and a meeting of the harbour’s users will take place in early December.”