Business / Progress on ultra-deep quay project as port lines up future developments
IT IS anticipated that work on a “game changing” project to create the UK’s first ultra-deep-water quay in Shetland could get underway in 2027.
A scoping report for the proposed development has now been submitted by Lerwick Port Authority (LPA) to the Scottish Government’s marine directorate as part of the consent process.
The proposed ultra deep quay work at Dales Voe – which would expand the range of decommissioning and renewable projects the port could take on – is one of a series of capital projects LPA is seeking consent for as it lines up a new phase of development.
Licence applications are being submitted to Marine Scotland to deepen and widen the North Ness Channel, improving access to Mair’s Pier and approaches to the port’s Gremista area, as well as deepen the quayside at energy related deep-water base at Dales Voe.
Dredging is hoped to be undertaken in 2025, subject to financing, suitable tenders and the availability of equipment.
In addition, a marine licence application is being prepared for construction of an additional small breakwater at the Gremista marine entrance ahead of further development in the Arlanda area to support the pelagic sector.
Pelagia planning expansion to meet demand for high quality fish
Small scale enabling works are also proposed for the planned ultra-deep-water quay at Dales Voe – with quay works possibly taking place in 2027 or 2028.
Port chief executive Captain Calum Grains said: “The combination of projects ushers in another significant phase in the development of Lerwick Harbour and reflects our commitment to invest in supporting current port users and new opportunities.”
The Scottish Government has already pledged up to £9 million towards the ultra-deep-water quay project through the Islands Deal, saying Dales Voe is the best location in the UK.
The quay at Dales Voe is already deemed a “deep water” facility and as such some large decommissioning projects like the dismantling of the Ninian Northern oil platform have taken place there.
Having an “ultra-deep” facility, with a depth of at least 24 metres, would enable the port authority to expand the range of work at Dales Voe – including supporting offshore wind projects.
It would allow large floating structures to be transferred directly to the quayside, supporting preparation for installation and maintenance.
The port authority previously said an ultra-deep facility would be a “gamechanger” for the offshore industry and renewables.
The scoping report said that an “ultra-deep-water port will increase the opportunity to secure more of the growing decommissioning sector and the developing offshore renewable sector, providing the UK with a capability to match that found overseas”.
“Dales Voe has been identified as the optimal location in the UK for an ultra-deep water decommissioning facility due to its sheltered approach, naturally deep-water channels and its close geographical proximity to both the existing oil and gas infrastructure and the locations that will be used for future offshore wind and low carbon energy sector,” it added.
Under current plans there would be around 100m of quayside, and a minimum of six hectares of laydown area.
Documents state that there could be more than 300,000 cubic metres of material dredged up to increase the water depth. From start to finish, the dredging process itself could take ten months.
Two large offshore wind farms are proposed east of Shetland, totalling hundreds of turbines.
Lerwick Port Authority has already signed a memorandum of understanding with Irish offshore wind developer ESB, which is planning a 500MW farm to the east of Shetland.
This agreement commits both organisations to work together regarding delivering the offshore development and ongoing operations and maintenance activities.
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