Press Release
Development Committee funding for two projects
Shetland Islands Council’s Development Committee has today invested £672,500 in loans and offered grant funding of £37,250 to two projects that aim to create 7 jobs and generate revenue of £500,000 annually.
Aurora Marine Limited are setting up in business to clean salmon nets using an innovative Norwegian system that allows nets to be cleaned on sea sites. The company aims to employ six people in the venture, which improves oxygen levels in salmon cages as well as reducing the time and effort needed to remove nets for cleaning. The Council has agreed to lend £372,500 and provide a grant of £37,250 towards the workboat and equipment required. Aurora Marine Limited is owned by Mr Neil Garrick, Mr Colin Leask, Mrs Lynsey Garrick and Mrs Valerie Nicolson.
Hillhead Windpower Limited is borrowing £300,000 towards the cost of erecting a 250kw wind turbine on the Hill of Ollaberry. The project has full planning permission and has an agreed grid connection to supply electricity. The company is owned by Mr Chris Dowle, Mr Drew Ratter and Mrs Vivienne K. Ratter.
Councillor Alastair Cooper, Chair of the Development Committee said “It is very heartening to see two true economic development projects before the Committee. They show how important it is to make the most of the opportunities that are here already. Even in harder economic times good businesses can get going to help shape our future.”