Plans by Aberdeen Harbour Board to create additional berthing facilities at Nigg Bay has received backing from both the Scottish government and an independent report.
The independent report, Economic Impact of Aberdeen Harbour Nigg Bay Development, commissioned by Scottish Enterprise and produced by Midlothian-based BiGGAR Economics, studies the impacts of a potential second harbour being constructed within Nigg Bay.
The report concluded that the estimated economic benefit of the development would be nearly £1.0 billion per annum (US$1.66 million).
The results of the report were published in the same month that the Scottish Government named the Nigg Bay Development as, "one of only 14 projects that they consider to be of national importance to Scotland" in its National Planning Process.
"The initial studies indicate that the £320 million development at Nigg Bay could create up to 1,500 metres of deep-water quays," commented Aberdeen Harbour Board chief executive Colin Parker.
Scottish Enterprise energy sector portfolio director, Maggie McGinlay, added: "Aberdeen Harbour is one of Europe's leading marine support centres for offshore energy and makes a significant contribution to the Scottish Economy. Aberdeen Harbour links with over 40 countries across the world and plays a critical role in supporting Scotland's oil and gas sector."