Coast: Upgrade includes better boat storage, buildings, parking and access

The port of Stornoway is to embark on a multi-millionpound development to construct a new modern marina.

The tendering process has opened for the £3.9million contract for plans to develop the habour facilities over a number of years.

The project at Newton Basin includes dredging and the construction of a retaining wall, followed by dredged material being used for hardstanding.

The works will see the construction of boat storage and marine-related buildings, parking and access for those using the marina.

There will also be the installation of below ground drainage, water, electrical and information and communication and technology services and the surfacing of the hardstanding.

In addition, the contract includes the construction of a breakwater, a slipway and a boat lift structure.

Alex Macleod, Stornoway Port Authority’s chief executive, said: “The procurement process is a significant milestone in a vital project to develop the new marina. It will allow us to get the right contractor for the construction work.

“As identified in our masterplan, there is presently a shortage of yacht berths and amenities which is constraining potential growth in marine tourism.

“To maintain and enhance its share of the growing yachting sector, Stornoway needs more berths and other facilities to offer marine visitors.”

He added: “Along with improved facilities for cruise passengers, the marina will be a major development for the port, the local community and our visitors and bring considerable economic benefits to the area.”

Western Isles MP Angus MacNeil said: “I am delighted with this investment of almost £4m pound in the Newton Basin. Stornoway is developing further and it will turn itself into a very vibrant destination in the years to come.”

He said he was “particularly pleased” that the Lewis College UHI will be involved as student apprentices in the tendering process.

The move has also been strongly welcomed by Western Isles councillor Rae MacKenzie who said it will provide a much needed economic boost.

Mr MacKenzie said: “It will make an enormous difference to the future of the town and it is part of the greater Stornoway development.

“It is an important area and there have been a lot of changes in circumstances. There were three Harris Tweed mills in that area but now they are gone.”

He added: “It is fantastic news. It is an area that really needed development and it is great that it is moving ahead.”

The development comes at a time when the port authority recorded a nine per cent rise in total vessel traffic last year.

“Will make an enormous difference to town’s future”