The opposition SNP group on Highland Council is optimistic that the intervention of an Australia-based Scots entrepreneur could speed up attempts to resuscitate the largely dormant Nigg fabrication yard in Easter Ross.
It revealed yesterday that Sea Transport Corporation chief Stuart Ballantyne had visited the site and met Scottish Government ministers, local development agency officials and party representatives.
In a statement issued by the SNP group, Mr Ballantyne said: “A market clearly exists, both in Scotland and for export."
He underlined how even a relatively small part of the yard could facilitate ferry construction.
“The existing layout and infrastructure means that very little would have to be changed to accommodate this proposal,” he said.
“The medium-speed catamaran ferries I have in mind are efficient, low-emission and carry much, much more per pound than traditional ferries.
“Although these are new to Scotland, they are in common use in more than 40 countries worldwide."
Tain and Easter Ross SNP councillor Alan Torrance believed the concept offered huge potential and could possibly regenerate the Cromarty Firth area.
Party colleague and former Highland planning chairman Drew Hendry, who has pressed hard for the yard’s revival, said: “We will encourage other political groups to get behind this concept. We would like to see business and enterprise groups take this forward as a viable proposition."
His successor as planning chairman, Ian Ross, said: “The masterplan provides us with options. Part of that is marine fabrication and we would certainly not exclude any option. We’re now in the consultation period for the Nigg masterplan and we would welcome any constructive comments.”
The consultation on developing the site runs until February 16. The details are online at www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/consultations.htm