News / Port enjoys oil boom
LERWICK harbour’s hub role in servicing the offshore industry was underlined this week when the port authority published traffic figures for the first three months of the year.
Tonnage of oil-related cargo and shipping both more than doubled compared with the same period in 2011.
With the number of support vessels using Lerwick up 82 per cent at 127, the tonnage rose by 120 per cent at 508,575 gross tonnes, with cargo handled up 102.7 per cent at 24,254 tonnes.
The larger vessels operating in the offshore sector were the main reason for increased pilotage movements – 273, an increase of 36 per cent.
Lerwick Port Authority’s deputy chief executive Victor Sandison said: “Increasing oil-related activity in the first quarter again demonstrated the value of the investment in deep-water infrastructure, including the latest berth at Greenhead which was brought into use ahead of schedule in February to support a major North Sea project.
“While specific factors had negative influence on two key sectors – passenger traffic and fish landings – the outlook for the port is positive, with the prospect of a record cruise season and continuing strong offshore industry activity.”
However, ferry passenger numbers were down by 12 per cent to 17,195, and fish landings decreased by 38 per cent to 13,896 tonnes.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
