Plans for an Ultra-Deep-Water Quay in Shetland have secured up to £1.175 million in funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

The funding will support preparatory works, dredging, and deepening areas adjacent to the quayside at Dales Voe in Lerwick Harbour to -16 metres.

The investment forms part of a wider strategic commitment by the Scottish Government of up to £500 million over five years to develop Scotland’s ports and offshore wind supply chain. Led by Lerwick Port Authority, the project will enhance Shetland's capacity for offshore energy, decommissioning, and renewables.

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HIE Shetland area manager, Katrina Wiseman, said the investment "underlines HIE’s commitment to ensuring Shetland and the wider Highlands and Islands remain at the forefront of the renewable energy transition."

She added that the development will significantly strengthen the region’s infrastructure and support the next generation of offshore energy.

Lerwick Port Authority Chief Executive, Captain Calum Grains, said the dredging project is a "significant investment in the future capability of Lerwick Harbour and the wider Shetland economy." He also acknowledged the support from HIE as being "instrumental" in enabling the project.

Energy Secretary Gillian Martin added that the investment will help "unlock enormous economic opportunities for Shetland and Scotland as a whole" and is another example of how the government is delivering on its priorities of growing the economy and protecting the planet.