Northern Ireland unveils investment plan for fishing harbour improvements

Photo: Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

The Northern Ireland government is planning to invest around £100 million (US$135 million) for the development of three of the country’s main fishing harbours.

Fisheries Minister Edwin Poots said approval is now being sought for the funding, which will be invested in key infrastructure at Kilkeel, Ardglass, and Portavogie.

The proposals include £73 million (US$98.6 million) to create a new harbour at Kilkeel, which would also see it become a hub of economic and marine activity for sectors such as aquaculture, leisure boating, and boat repair and decommissioning. The harbour will also have a deeper approach channel to allow larger vessels to land.

The approach channel at Ardglass would also be deepened as part of a project estimated to cost around £20 million (US$27 million).

Meanwhile, a £5 million (US$6.7 million) proposal for Portavogie would include developing the existing harbour and abandoned buildings.


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