Announced earlier this week, the new hub will create an estimated 16 new full-time jobs through the construction and operation phases; many of which will be in the Highlands and Islands.

Civil engineering and construction contractor Roadbridge UK Ltd won the open public tender based on a number of assessment criteria, including its quality assurance, the strength and experience of its project team, its commitment to community benefit and a competitive price. The firm also has relevant knowledge of marine projects, with recent experience at Dublin port.

The Port’s tender process incorporated conditions to ensure maximum benefits to the local community from the project. These included:

• Sustainable employment for priority groups, including the unemployed;
• Targeted recruitment and training for modern apprentices and work experience placements;
• Educational benefits through career events and site visits;
• Vocational training to upskill apprentices, graduates and existing employees;
• Support supply chain development for small to medium sized businesses and micro-businesses; and
• Financial support for community projects.

Bob Buskie, chief executive of the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “This is a hugely complex job with a very tight schedule, so we are delighted to be working with Roadbridge. They won this contract against very stiff competition from six other leading national and international contractors. Their team is totally committed to ensuring the Port’s communities benefit from this build in line with our own Trust Port philosophy. It is a hugely exciting time for the Port and we look forward to working with Roadbridge on this build to ensure it is ready for the Moray East windfarm project in 2020.”

Cathal Doherty from Roadbridge UK Ltd, added: “We are delighted to have won this contract from the Port of Cromarty Firth.  It will be a privilege working with a Trust Port, as all profits are reinvested into developments such as this. Their commitment to their local communities fits with our ethos. We are looking forward to starting work on this project and creating sustainable jobs for the future of the area.”

The build will start in January 2019 with the construction of a 218m long quayside with steel piles, construction of a new revetment (retaining wall) and nine-acre land reclamation. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2020.