Specialist will develop a long-term strategic plan for Wick Harbour

A specialist ports consultant has been appointed to develop a long-term strategic plan for Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) in Caithness.

WHA has secured £47,775 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and the Nuclear Restoration Services, NRS Dounreay towards the cost of the services.

The appointment will help ensure the harbour capitalises fully on recent improvement works. This includes the £1.2m extension of the south quay and enhancements to the north quay, which was also supported by funding from HIE, NRS Dounreay, SSE and the Marine Fund Scotland.

The consultant, Anne Byers of MTSS Ltd., brings extensive experience in port development. She has played a key role in master planning and business case work for Eyemouth and Orkney Harbours.

Since 2018, Wick Harbour has served as the main operations and maintenance base for the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm. The Beatrice project has attracted £200m investment and created more than 80 high-value, long-term jobs.

Building on this success, the new strategic plan will position WHA to attract further operations and maintenance activity from the growing offshore wind sector. It will also diversify harbour operations, and secure funding for major projects.

Wick Harbour is a commercially managed regional asset within the renewable energy supply chain. It also supports fishing, shellfish landing, commercial cargo, and oil and gas activities. WHA is responsible for maintaining harbour infrastructure, including dredging, quay repairs, and planning future upgrades.

The consultant will work closely with WHA on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and preparatory work for future development projects.

Claire Wilson, HIE’s head of business growth for Caithness and Sutherland, said:

“We’re delighted to support Wick Harbour as it begins mapping and planning for future opportunities in offshore wind and the wider renewables sector. With Wick’s prime location on the east coast, this is the perfect moment to explore its role in delivering projects that drive economic growth across the region.

“Wick Harbour is already a vital regional asset for the renewables industry. Developing a long-term strategy will not only secure this position but could also attract additional operations and maintenance contracts. This will strengthen the local supply chain, create jobs in Caithness, and help build population and community resilience.”

David Calder, head of sustainability and socio economics for NRS Dounreay, said:

“We are pleased to support Wick Harbour Authority in shaping a long-term strategic vision that strengthens the region’s economic resilience. This grant funding reflects NRS Dounreay’s commitment to delivering meaningful social value for communities in the area.

By investing in local infrastructure and future planning, we’re helping unlock opportunities for sustainable growth, job creation, and wider area regeneration – ensuring the harbour continues to serve as a vital asset for Caithness and the North Highlands.”  

Bob Silverwood, chair of Wick Harbour Authority, said:

“We greatly appreciate the support from HIE and the NDA that has enabled this important work. It will provide clarity on Wick Harbour’s future potential and strengthen efforts to secure opportunities across the renewables sector – particularly offshore wind – as well as other emerging industries.

“WHA has a bold vision for the future, and now is the ideal time to explore how Wick Harbour can drive economic growth for Wick and the wider east Caithness area.”