A MULTI-MILLION-POUND deep-water shipping terminal aiming to boost the renewable economy on a Scottish island has been completed. 

Stornoway terminal, which aims to support future renewable energy developments and cruise ships in the Western Isles, has been officially handed over to operators.

The project cost a total of £49m and was supported with £33.7m of Scottish Government funding to help boost the island’s economy.

The terminal can accommodate vessels over 1000 feet long and has a deep-sea dock for large cargo ships, to allow the unloading of components for renewable energy, and other key industry sectors.

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To mark the end of construction the Deputy First Minister Shona Robison toured the terminal and said it will be a real boost to the island's economy.

She said: “This significant infrastructure project will help unlock Stornoway – and the wider region’s – full economic potential both as a green energy gateway and a magnet for the lucrative cruise ship market, which is expected to be worth £13 billion globally by 2031.

“The completion of construction marks the culmination of dedicated partnership working – allowing us to create a development of real value, boosting the islands’ economy as part of our efforts to deliver economic growth in every part of Scotland.

“The Scottish Government is fully committed to investing in our rural and island communities, helping them thrive – and empowering people to enjoy the unique employment opportunities and strong sense of community that life on our islands offers.”

The contract for the deep-water terminal was signed by the Stornoway Port Authority in March 2022 and the Scottish Government provided more than £33m in funding with an additional £10m from Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Alex Macleod, chief executive of the Stornoway Port Authority, said: “Today is the result of four years of specialist building work to create a world-leading terminal that will transform the experience of cruise passengers to the islands.

“It will also allow us to further develop the opportunities we have with the offshore renewables industry.

“It has been exciting to see the collaborative approach between all our local partners, which will be essential to ensure the operational success of the terminal. “The support we have had from the community during the build has been incredible, so this is the perfect opportunity to thank them.”

The initiative involved partnership working between the Scottish Government, Stornoway Port Authority, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the local authority Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, and Visit Scotland.