About 60 jobs are expected to be generated during £32million construction work
Huge harbour extension plan attracts only one objection
Published:
Plans in hand for the biggest investment yet at Peterhead harbour have attracted just one objection.
The port authority wants to build a 650ft quay and a 328ft breakwater at the Smith Embankment to meet the ~demands of the modern pelagic fleet, as well as lay the foundations for attracting lucrative decommissioning work for oil and gas rigs.
The deadline to object to the plans has now passed, and only one objector has come forward.
It is understood the objection centres around environmental concerns, and port boss John Wallace says he is keen to address the complainer’s concerns.
He said: “While there is only one objection, we are still disappointed because we have gone to great lengths in working with the council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency.”
Last month, councillors on the Buchan area committee were asked for their views on the £32million project and on the environmental impact it would have.
They agreed the long-term picture had to take precedent and raised no objections to the plans, despite concerns over noise and vibration during the construction phase.
It is forecast the Smith Embankment will create more than 200 jobs and pump £11million into the local economy every year.
About 60 jobs will be generated during construction, which could begin in August, and once completed would bring a further 150 jobs.
A detailed environmental assessment has been submitted with the plans, which included the impact the project will have on the water, the air quality and the community around it.
Peterhead Port Authority says the project will keep the town among Europe’s elite ports.
It hopes the project will provide the pelagic – herring, mackerel and other species – fleet with the same level of excellence enjoyed by the white-fish sector.
The new quay and deepwater berthing facilities will also provide the gateway for lucrative offshore decommissioning work, estimated to be worth £15billion over the next 20 years.
The project now hinges on a £5million Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise grant, after port bosses put together the bulk of the £32million needed through a £9million loan, and £18million of its own money.
