Aberdeen Harbour plans major redevelopment
26 September 2012A feasibility study looking at the potential for expansion of facilities at Britain’s biggest oil industry port has been launched by the Aberdeen Harbour Board.
Increasing traffic and cargo throughput, along with an increase in the size of vessels calling at Aberdeen Harbour has prompted its management team, working with external consultancy firms, to outline a plan for the port's future development.
Aberdeen Harbour is already the principal port used by the oil and gas sector for operations in the North Sea and West of Shetland, but it is also earmarked as a potential focal point for future offshore wind developments outlined in the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan, as well as nuclear decommissioning operations.
Aberdeen Harbour chief executive Colin Parker said: "Activity linked with Aberdeen Harbour contributes upwards of £500million annually making it a huge economic driver here in the North-east and strategically important to the national economy.
"Over the last 10 years we have witnessed considerable growth in the size of ships using the port and there is scope for even larger vessels requiring berths in the future. We have invested heavily in our existing infrastructure, most recently at Torry Quay, with Phase One now operational and Phase Two set for completion in the first half of 2013, delivering deep water berthing and a modern fit for purpose quayside.
"In order to meet the demands of the future and service new business streams, we must consider viable expansion solutions."
The study's initial findings are expected in the New Year.
Aberdeen City and Shire Economic Future (ACSEF) chairman Tom Smith added: "The Harbour is a critical component of the North East's economic profile. Enterprises -- be they public or private -- need to be taking steps now to plan for the next 20 to 25 years and I welcome the Harbour Board's focus on the future."
