PRINCE CHARLES FORMALLY OPENS NEW FISH MARKET

The state-of-the-art market, part of a £51 million redevelopment of the harbour by Peterhead Port Authority, which also included a deeper basin and more than 800m of new quayside, began operating in June.

The Prince said he was “very glad” to be able to join everyone in the opening of “this very important new fish market facility”.

“If I may just add my warmest congratulations to all those who played such an important part in building this new development, and above all in delivering it on time and on budget. That I think is a great achievement.

“This new market I’m sure will make a huge difference to, not only the local economy here in Peterhead, but also more widely in this part of Scotland.”

Prior to the opening ceremony the Prince met fifth generation fish filleter Conrad Jack, 18, of local firm Jack Fish, who demonstrated his technique on a monkfish.

He also met exhibitors, including contractors on the project and fishing and heritage organisations.

The new market has a capacity of 10,000 boxes and the latest refrigeration technology which, combined with good access for boats on the quayside and articulated lorries on the shoreside, ensure that product quality is maintained as fish pass through in efficient fashion. Plenty of office space and a new cafe also mean an enhanced working environment.

Peterhead Port Authority chief executive Simon Brebner said: “We were delighted an honoured to have His Royal Highness here today to open the market.

"This is a historic time for the port. The new fish market, quayside improvements, deepening of the harbour and widening and replacement of the Queenie Bridge represent a major investment by the Board that will significantly improve operating conditions for users of the harbour and create a legacy for the town as a whole.”

The investment in the market totalled around £9 million, while the harbour works cost £43 million. The Scottish Government / European Maritime & Fisheries Fund contributed £5 million in grant funding towards the project.

The architects for the fish market were Arch Henderson and the main contractor was Chap Construction. Building work began in March 2017.

The engineers for the harbour works were the RPS Group and McLaughlin and Harvey / Boskalis formed a joint venture as the main conractor. Work begin in October 2016.