New fish market adds to harbour improvements

Marine: Opening of Lerwick asset which is more than twice size of old site

A new multi-millionpound whitefish market has opened for business at Shetlands’ main port.

The opening of the £7.6 million facility marks the final phase of a series of major projects at Lerwick Harbour.

With four temperaturecontrolled/chilled bays, covering 17,000sq ft, the

“It’s reinforcing our position as a leading UK port for the sector ”

market, at Mair’s Quay, is more than twice the size of the one it has replaced.

Ronnie Gair, chairman of Lerwick Port Authority (LPA), said: “The market is an excellent example of our long-term planning to meet the needs of port users.

“It is the final phase in a series of major projects, the catalyst for which was an extensive dredging programme more than a decade ago and which have transformed the harbour and operations. The market is the latest demonstration of our commitment to the sustainability of the sector.”

LPA’s investment in the facility was backed with support by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Bank of Scotland finance.

Calum Gains, LPA’s chief executive, said: “Detailed discussions with stakeholders helped shape much-needed improvements enhancing the quality of fish landed and sold, with greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

“The interlocking dredging, building Mair’s Quay, Mair’s Pier and market, along with associated improvements, have created a modern hub for the industry in the harbour’s Holmsgarth area at a cost of more than £30 million, increasing co-ordination and cooperation of its activities and reinforcing our position as a leading UK port for the sector.”

LANDMARK: Lerwick Fishmarket receives its first whitefish landings from local vessel Sedulous LK 308, overseen by skipper John Wishart