Kevin Paterson, CEO at Dales Marine Services, welcomes the UK government’s plans to invest more than £1.1 billion in the maritime sector.

Kevin commented:
“The decision to invest more than £1.1 billion to boost growth, jobs and skills in UK coastal towns and cities is an encouraging step towards strengthening and expanding our maritime economy.

“This investment, which includes £700m of private investment for major UK ports and industry stakeholders, alongside £448m of public investment to reduce emissions from UK shipping, is a strong signal of confidence in the sector’s future. 

“We are excited about what this means for the future of ports and businesses in Scotland and the wider UK, and we stand ready to contribute, innovate and help deliver on these ambitions for cleaner shipping, local jobs, and durable infrastructure.

“Scottish ports play a vital role in the UK’s maritime and energy economies, and strategic investment in Scottish coastal towns and infrastructure would help create new opportunities for growth, innovation and long-term employment, particularly at a time when attracting and retaining skilled talent requires industry-wide focus. 

“At Dales Marine Services, we are committed to supporting our customers and partners in the offshore and energy sector as they navigate the transition to net zero, finding collaborative solutions that will create real and lasting benefits for the entire maritime ecosystem.”

Dales Marine operates four strategically located docks in Aberdeen, Leith, Greenock and Troon, providing specialised ship repair and maintenance services to the maritime and energy industries. In addition to these facilities, it supports clients at ports across Scotland and the wider UK, ensuring flexible, responsive service wherever it’s needed.