A new £16.5 million quay has been opened at Lerwick Harbour.

The 'Mair's Pier' scheme marks the single largest capital investment in the 140-year history of Lerwick Harbour Trust and its successor, Lerwick Port Authority.

The project was delivered by Tulloch Developments Limited. The scheme involved land reclamation, construction of an 804-metre deep-water L-shaped quay, and demolition of a smaller jetty and included creating a working area over 1.5 hectares for the fishing fleet and oil vessels. The outer arm creates a dock which will shelter the new market, with construction planned to start this year.

The main consultant was Arch Henderson LLP, which includes a Lerwick office, providing full design, project management and cost control.

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Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Shetland MSP Tavish Scott said: "Lerwick Port Authority has, through the decades, invested in Shetland's future. New quays, facilities and deeper, sheltered water reflect the needs of larger vessels, the ever-changing oil and gas industry and the importance of seafood to Shetland and the wider Scottish and UK economy.

“Mair's Pier is testament to the Lerwick Port Authority board and the team who make the Authority the successful, growing business it is. It is a strategic investment in Lerwick, and so much more. The Authority recognises the maritime world never stands still and ports must adapt and invest in their facilities to compete."

Authority Chief Executive, Sandra Laurenson, said: "Mair's Pier is a significant addition to our infrastructure and has been well received across several sectors where it will help sustain and grow activity.  It is also very much a value-added asset as a catalyst for considerable further development, including a new fish market and fishing industry hub."

(LM/MH)