Up to £10m of funding approved for development of Scottish port

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has announced the approval of up to £10 million to support the development of the Port of Nigg.

The economic and community development agency hopes the funding for the port’s Inner East Quay will result in the creation of a new heavy-duty quayside and introduce roll-on roll-off capability.

It is expected the project, which is subject to formal approval by Global Energy Nigg Limited, will increase capacity and capabilities at the port.

HIE believes this will attract new companies and investment to the port while also supporting operations across the country’s growing offshore wind capability.

The investment forms part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to invest up to £500 million over five years to anchor the nation’s offshore wind supply chain.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “This is a prime example of how we and our enterprise agencies are focused on stimulating investment and targeting projects that will in turn act as a catalyst to further investment, jobs and opportunities.

“Given its location and being part of Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, the Port of Nigg is strategically important to the growth and success of the offshore wind sector.

“An investment of this nature sends a clear signal to investors that Scotland is open for business, and the Scottish Government and our partners stand ready to help unleash the enormous economic benefits of our offshore wind industry.”

HIE’s director of strategic projects, David Oxley, said: “Our support for this project is about keeping the UK and the Highlands and Islands region at the forefront of the energy sector, particularly renewable energy, and strengthening our international competitiveness.

“There are many obvious benefits for the region’s economy and job creation.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to facilitate further Scottish Government funding and look forward to continuing our collaboration with our public sector partners and industry as the project develops.”