TOURISM is expected to be significantly boosted with a £2.2 million investment for Tarbert Harbour.
The slipway project will open up opportunities for business and travellers in this vital part of the regeneration of the Argyll fishing village.
The project will see the creation of a new Marina Slipway with increased car parking and vessel hard standing space, with works underway and a completion date of March next year.
The £1.6m contract has been awarded to Charles Brand of Northern Ireland, following a competitive tendering process. The project is being funded by Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Harbour Authority (THA) with support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Crown Estates Scotland via Argyll and Bute Council and Skipness Community Trust. The total project cost including design, build and purchase of equipment is £2.2m. That is being seen as a sign of intent from the THA board to ensure Tarbert remains a thriving village for many years to come.
Darren Mair, Harbour Master at Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Harbour Authority, said: “These are exciting times for Tarbert Harbour and the announcement of the Marina Slipway Project marks a major development in the regeneration of the village.
“It is a significant legacy-building investment that will strengthen the image, appeal and competitiveness of Tarbert as not only a base for owners to keep their vessels in a sheltered harbour, but also to re-ignite Tarbert’s heritage as a place of boat repair and maintenance.”
Darren Mair told this newspaper he believes the development will be a game-changer in attracting new visitors.
“This will serve well as a driver for the nearby economy and augmenting Tarbert’s position as a world-class sailors’ paradise.”
In addition to the new Marina Slipway Project, there are plans for the creation of a community water sports and activity hub building and kayak pontoon, to complement the new slipway. This is planned to enhance the wellbeing of the local population and provide better recreational access to the water for families and individuals of all ages and abilities, creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for the whole community, as well as skills and training opportunities.
The Marina Slipway Project is one of a number of significant infrastructure investments to be committed to Tarbert over the last 18 months and once complete, will provide a much-desired, safe and modern service to lift leisure and small commercial craft up to 25 tonnes displacement, all year round.
The facility will offer winter hard standing for vessels, with packages available including vessel washing, antifouling, engine servicing, rigging and other forms of boat maintenance to provide convenience for customers. It will also ensure vessels remain in a safe condition and provide owners with confidence that they can enjoy their time on the water.
Darren Mair added: “I want to emphasise the Marina remains open for business as usual during the development and the strong start to the summer season provides us with confidence that Tarbert remains the destination of choice for visitors by sea or by land.”
