An improvement project at Tarbert Harbour in Argyll has secured up to £395,000 (about $530,000 USD) in public funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to support planned works at the site, which provides berthing and harbour services for fishing vessels, leisure boats and visiting yachts.
HIE has provided the funding as part of a wider £1.36 million ($1.8 million) project focused on improving facilities at the harbour.
Tarbert Harbour sits on the shores of Loch Fyne, between Lochgilphead and Campbeltown. It is operated by Tarbert Harbour Authority (THA), a non-profit social enterprise.
The harbour offers berthing for more than 200 vessels, including finger berths, parallel pontoons and swinging moorings. It supports both commercial fishing activities and seasonal leisure use.
The funding supports the construction of a launch and retrieval slipway. Additional funding will contribute to a submersible boat hoist for launching and recovering vessels, along with an accessible pontoon for kayakers, wild swimmers and other water users.
The planned works are expected to improve harbour operations and safety. Reduced congestion within the berthing areas is also expected, alongside shorter turnaround times for boat handling.
HIE has worked with the THA over the past six years on capital investment at the harbour. During that time, additional facilities have been added, including a harbour office, chandlery, toilets, showers and laundry services.
Morag Goodfellow, area manager for Argyll and the Islands, said: “This project will strengthen the links between the Tarbert community and the marine heritage. It will enhance the visitor offering in the area, providing opportunities for visitors to stay longer, which will benefit the local economy. And of course, it will create more local jobs.”
Roger Godfrey, chair of the Harbour Board of Trustees, said: “This investment will improve safety during lifting operations and enhance the experience for visitors and local water users alike. It’s a major step forward for our community, for the future of Tarbert as a vibrant marine destination and in supporting the local economy.”
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