Scotland: Port of Ardersier granted pilotage powers

The Scottish Government has granted pilotage powers to the owners of Port of Ardersier, supporting a £400 million (US$500 million) investment in the facility as part of the country's controversial renewable energy agenda.

Owner Haventus said it is making a significant investment in new infrastructure to put the port at the forefront of Scotland’s heavily subsidised offshore wind industry.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop signed the harbour order, giving the port the necessary powers to provide safe passage to vessels arriving in its waters.

“Giving the port powers over pilotage will enable significant investment, totalling £400 million, in a remote and economically challenged part of the country," said Hyslop.

“Scotland's growing offshore wind capabilities present a real opportunity to achieve a just transition to net zero, create thousands of green jobs and transform our regional and national economies.

"I am pleased the Scottish Government can play its part helping support that ambition.”