Initial ground investigation work is set to begin this month at the site of the proposed Scapa Deep Water Quay in Deepdale, Holm.
Orkney Islands Council is pushing ahead with early-stage planning on a project that could transform the region’s marine infrastructure.
Marine investigations are scheduled to follow in June as part of a wider programme of preparatory work.
These efforts fall under a £7.2 million Pre-Construction Services Agreement led by Spanish firm ACCIONA in partnership with UK-based Jones Bros.
The agreement includes detailed design development, ground and marine surveys, and essential site assessments.
While not a green light for construction, the PCSA will provide critical insights for Councillors before any final decisions are made.
Of the total cost, £5 million has been secured through funding from the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
First Minister John Swinney announced the funding during a visit to Orkney in February.
Council Chief Executive Oliver Reid emphasised that the PCSA is about ensuring any future proposal is grounded in data, feasibility, and financial responsibility.
He described the PCSA as a major part of the procurement roadmap for such a large-scale project.
Mr Reid added that the results would guide elected members in deciding whether to proceed with the development.
He welcomed the expertise that ACCIONA and Jones Bros bring to the process.
The Scapa Deep Water Quay is considered central to the Council’s broader strategic vision.
That vision includes the recently approved Offshore Energy Development Strategy, which aims to harness the benefits of offshore wind and marine renewables.
A first draft of the strategy will be presented to Council members later in the year.
Councillor Kristopher Leask, who chairs the Development and Infrastructure Committee, sees the quay as key to unlocking long-term economic growth.
He said the new infrastructure could attract inward investment, create well-paid jobs, and help future-proof the local economy.
Councillor Leask also noted the role offshore energy could play in offsetting the decline of traditional industries like oil and gas.
He stressed the importance of strategic planning and collaboration with industry and government.
Orkney, he said, has an opportunity to lead in offshore renewables through careful infrastructure development.
The work being carried out now will allow the Council to make a fully informed decision when the time comes.
For the islands, the hope is that the groundwork being laid today will secure the prosperity of tomorrow.
