Lerwick highlights fishing investment

THE importance of investment in the Shetland fishing industry will be highlighted at Skipper Expo in Aberdeen over the next two days.
The industry – white fish, pelagic, shellfish and aquaculture – is the biggest single contributor to the islands’ economy, more than the four other main business categories combined.
At the heart of rich fishing grounds, Lerwick is one of Britain’s main centres for landing, selling, processing and shipment of seafood and for the servicing of vessels
Lerwick Port Authority’s latest fishing related project is the £16.4 million, 800-metre-plus Holmsgarth North jetty.
Under construction earlier this year for completion in autumn, 2016, the L-shaped structure will ultimately have 10 metres’ water alongside, providing deeper berthing, increased working area and shelter for a planned replacement white fish market.
Plans for the market are at an advanced stage, with construction scheduled for 2016-18. It will be located on the £3.17 million Mair’s Quay, completed in 2013 and now a valuable asset for the industry.
The market and quays will bring significant improvements in landing and transportation of fish and in supporting vessels.
Lerwick Port Authority chief executive Sandra Laurenson said: ‘Lerwick Port Authority takes a long term view on infrastructure investment, which is essential with fluctuations in international market conditions affecting landings from time-to-time.
‘The abundant fish stocks around Shetland are well managed and of great quality and Shetland is best placed to develop this trade.
‘Our commitment to the future, along with community based organisations supporting fisheries and aquaculture in the islands, means that sustained development on an ongoing basis will provide continued benefits to the sector and community.
‘We are hopeful that the new European Maritime and Fisheries Fund will assist in delivery of Lerwick’s new fish market to complement the substantial private investment the authority is making in Holmsgarth North Quay.’
Lerwick Port Authority is exhibiting on stand 67 at Skipper Expo at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre on May 29-30. Shetland is also represented on neighbouring stands.
Picture: Construction works underway on Holmsgarth North Quay