Montrose Port Authority, a leading support and service hub for the energy industry, has received a £1.5million Ports Mode Shift Grant from the Scottish Government.

Following on from a period of significant investment for Montrose Port Authority, the funding feeds into the Port’s strategic growth plans which will allow larger cargo vessels to dock in Montrose.

The Grant will support the development of two new North quaysides – berths seven west and eight. This will increase the Port’s capacity, depth alongside and associated utilities work, which in turn will increase the maximum potential size of berthing vessels from 12,000 to 18,000 deadweight tonnage.

In addition, the move will deliver environmental benefits, removing an estimated 1.26m tonnes of freight from roads and 86,000 HGV lorry journeys.

The latest investment is expected to secure ongoing employment in the Port, with changes to the quaysides expected to be complete by summer 2019.

Nik Scott-Gray, chief executive at Montrose Port Authority, said: “One of our objectives is to streamline our Port activities, delivering efficient, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solutions. This support from the Scottish Government is the next step in this process; building on our master plan and strategy process while developing new markets and directing investment towards key infrastructure projects.”

Reflecting its growth, the Port recently celebrated a record-breaking month announcing 453,444 gross tonnes of vessel activity during May 2018; beating its previous record by an additional 116,299 tonnes.

Nik continued: “This is the third consecutive year we’ve beaten our target. With our two new berths I am confident this number will grow year on year, as we welcome vessels from across the globe and encourage environmentally friendly modes of transport.

“There is no doubt this funding will bring significant economic benefits to Montrose and the whole North East in years to come, ensuring the region remains buoyant and competitive in the current marketplace.”