Friday 29 March 2024
 6°C   SSE Gentle Breeze
Ocean Kinetics - The Engineering Experts

News / Scalloway fish market plans to face final hurdle

THREE projects including a £5.6 million upgrade to the Scalloway fish market have been rubber-stamped by Shetland Islands Council’s policy and resources committee.

New recycling facilities and wind turbines at two North Isles ferry terminals were also approved by the committee on Monday morning.

The three projects will now be discussed at the full council’s next meeting on 1 November before they get the green light.

The fish market plans, which had already won the support of the harbour board and development committee, would see the existing building rebuilt and extended.

Concerns were raised over the the potential for future expansion in light of increased landings, but they were factored into the full business case.

South mainland councillor George Smith said while there is “no doubt” it is a good project for the industry, he sought assurances that it was the best use of resources for Shetland in a wider sense during a time of financial restraints.

The council’s intention is to apply for funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund for 50 per cent of the costs, but the money is not confirmed yet.

John Smith of the ports and harbours team said recent figures showed that fish landings at Scalloway for the first half of the financial year had already equalled the expected catch for the whole 12 months.

SIC chief executive Mark Boden suggested that the council needs to be “schizophrenic” about its approach to the project in that needs to look at effective financial management while also serving the public.

But he said there is not a “do nothing option” for the busy fish market as it needs to be upgraded, adding that people already rely on its income.

Councillors also backed building a new shed at Gremista in Lerwick and buying sorting equipment for when the local authority starts kerbside recycling next year.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

 

The £750,000 plan would mean the waste would not need to be sorted on the mainland, which would save between £59,000 and £97,000 per year.

The policy and resources committee also approved plans to install 10kW turbines at the Ulsta and Hamars Ness ferry terminals in Yell and Fetlar respectively at a cost of £128,000.

Estate operations manager Carl Symons said the turbines would give electricity to the ferries when they dock overnight.

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.

 
Categories

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

We're committed to ensuring everyone has equitable access to impartial, open and quality local journalism that benefits all residents.

By supporting Shetland News, you play a vital role in ensuring we remain a pivotal resource in supporting the community.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.