Kishorn paves the way for renewables

Kishorn Port Ltd’s proposals are a further example of ports in strategic locations ensuring they are positioned to take advantage of the growing renewable energy sector. In Kishorn’s case it was in the early 1970’s that its location met the requirements of the oil and gas industry, conditions now relevant to the renewables industry. The massive concrete base of the Ninian Central Platform was constructed in the large and deep drydock and although no more concrete based oil platforms were built here, the drydock was used again in 1992 for construction of two caissons for the Skye Bridge.

Kishorn Port Ltd is a JV between Ferguson Transport (Spean Bridge) and Leiths (Scotland) Ltd and the proposals are part of the port’s Development Layout Plan. Plans include upgrading of the drydock and the provision of improved berthing facilities for expected larger ships delivering components for manufacturing and servicing. Also included is reclamation of the foreshore, upgrading and extending the existing pier structure and erection of fabrication and warehousing buildings on site.

A reminder of the port’s history is where the existing Kishorn Quarry will be extended to provide 6.3 million tonnes of high quality rock aggregate for on-site casting of concrete turbine bases. A temporary anchorage will be established where completed turbines will be mated with concrete bases prior to towing to offshore locations. If required a temporary deepwater location in Loch Kishorn, off Airigh-Drishaig on the north shore of the loch and to the west of the site, will be made available. If the site is re-established as a full manufacturing facility for concrete gravity base structures, it could provide up to 2,500 jobs in the future.