A proposed £700,000 deal to secure the future for Perth Harbour has been described as a “game changer” by the leader of the council.
Councillors who attended a full council meeting discussed the up-to-date situation regarding the harbour, and heard a total of 15 ships used its waters during the 2017/18 financial year. This was down from 17 during the previous financial year.
The meeting heard a 2016 business plan for the harbour found around £1 million of finance was required, including financing dredging, to make it break even by 2021.
Councillors were also told the harbour operation would be unlikely to recover its costs before 2034 if this business plan was not revised.
Scottish Conservative Councillor Murray Lyle, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, struck a more optimistic tone when he addressed the meeting, by stressing the harbour’s financial position is “in line” with the budgeted position. He stated he sees better times ahead for the operation.
“The Harbour Board is keeping a close watch on its delivery, market conditions and operations on our behalf, but I believe that accepting the offer from CalMac Ferries Ltd to run the site could be a game changer,” he told councillors.
“The move would bring a reputable national company with a proven track record in the provision of harbour, port, marine and ferry services across Scotland and the UK. CalMac currently operate out of more than 50 ports.”
He continued: “I must stress that the bid from CalMac has not been predicated on any dredging taking place and we now have time to review the position in discussion with the proposed new operator.
“We are addressing specific issues on dredging through active engagement with all stakeholders. As soon as the licence is granted, it is recommended to issue the dredging contract tender to firm up costs and timescales after which a considered decision on whether to proceed with a dredging contract can be made.”
Councillor Dave Doogan, leader of the SNP group on Perth and Kinross Council, gave his support to the proposals.
“This is good news for the future fortune of the harbour,” he commented.
