Stornoway Port Authority will consult local residents over plans to change the face of the Island’s main harbour.
Major developments are expected as part of the Stornoway Port Authority’s 20 year master plan which will be displayed to locals at planned exhibitions over the coming months.
Plans are set to see the introduction of a deep water port at Stornoway Harbour in a bid to allow cruise ships to berth in the island town. The move is estimated to see an increase of 35-40 vessels a year which would create significant opportunities for local businesses. Proposals for a new marina are also expected to address the potential growth in marine tourism as the Stornoway Port Authority has identified shortage of yacht berths.
Alex Macleod, the Authority’s Chief Executive, said: “These meetings are important parts of the whole process. They will give us the chance to present the proposals and get responses from the community.
“The planned developments will provide huge economic benefits for the whole island, and we want to move forward with the community fully informed about our plans, explaining why the developments are necessary and how they will bring new economic opportunities.
“The exhibitions and public meeting will update stakeholders on the progress of these proposals, but they are also a chance for us to listen so that we get this right.”
The first exhibition will take place on Tuesday 24th April from 10am-6pm at Stornoway Town Hall where the proposals and methods the Port Authority wish to use within the project will be presented with consideration for the environmental impacts these may have.
The project will not formally begin until the consultation period has ended where applications for planning permission, marine licences and a Harbour Revision Order will be sought after.