Montrose Port Authority Draft Masterplan

Montrose Port Authority’s ambitious draft Masterplan represents a once‑in‑a‑generation investment in the future of Montrose, Angus and the wider Scottish economy.

Designed to significantly expand port capacity, unlock new industrial land and position Montrose at the forefront of the global offshore wind sector, the draft Masterplan will deliver lasting economic, employment and productivity benefits across the region.

As one of the UK’s most strategically important trust ports, Montrose plays a vital role in supporting offshore energy, trade and logistics. The draft Masterplan builds on this strength, ensuring the port can continue to serve as a powerful engine for sustainable economic growth as Scotland transitions to a net‑zero economy.

An aerial view of a busy harbor with several large industrial and offshore supply vessels docked at piers or anchored in the channel, leading toward a bridge and a coastal town under a bright, cloud-filled sky.

A Major Catalyst for Jobs and Investment

At the heart of the draft Masterplan are five transformational infrastructure projects, including proposed new quays, upgraded berths, expanded operations and maintenance facilities, and a future outer harbour.

Collectively, these developments are expected to create over 1,000 new full‑time jobs and add around £47 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the local economy every year, significantly strengthening Angus’s economic base.

The programme will also safeguard approximately 384 existing jobs, supporting workforce stability while creating new opportunities across engineering, construction, logistics, manufacturing, professional services and the offshore renewables supply chain.

A high-angle aerial view of a busy port and coastal town. Several large industrial ships, including yellow and blue vessels, are docked or moving through the deep blue channel. A bridge with cars crossing spans the water in the foreground, leading toward the sea and a distant lighthouse.

Strengthening Scotland’s Offshore Wind Supply Chain

Montrose is already recognised as one of the world’s leading Operations and Maintenance (O&M) hubs for offshore wind, hosting the O&M bases for both the fully operational Seagreen wind farm and the forthcoming Inch Cape project.

Once fully operational, these projects will see Montrose supporting up to 2.5GW of offshore wind capacity, reinforcing its international significance within the sector.

The draft Masterplan significantly expands the port’s ability to support offshore wind construction, O&M and future energy technologies. By increasing port capacity, quay length and available industrial land, Montrose is enabling further private sector investment and helping to secure Scotland’s position as a global leader in renewable energy delivery.

Unlocking Land for Business Growth and Innovation

A key element of the draft Masterplan is the integration of the port’s expansion with the wider Montrose Port Industrial Park (MPIP), including the redevelopment of former industrial sites.

This will unlock over 20 hectares of developable land, creating new space for manufacturing, assembly, storage and research linked to offshore energy and wider industrial markets.

This increased availability of high‑quality, well‑connected industrial land will support business growth, attract inward investment and stimulate supply chain diversification – benefiting not only Montrose, but the wider Angus and North East Scotland economies.

A digital architectural visualization of a modern industrial warehouse at sunset. The building features a large "4" on a dark grey facade with a reflective, patterned upper section. In the foreground, a parking lot includes a white car and electric vehicle charging stations.

Long‑Term Value for Communities

As a trust port, Montrose Port Authority reinvests all profits back into port infrastructure, people and the local community.

The draft Masterplan reflects this commitment, delivering economic growth alongside social and environmental value. Enhanced port infrastructure will help protect the town from environmental risks, reduce dredging requirements and support sustainable maritime operations aligned with national net‑zero objectives.

Alongside physical infrastructure, the draft Masterplan supports skills development, including investment in training and education linked to the renewables sector, helping local people access high‑quality jobs now and in the future.

A Strategic Asset for the National Economy

With an annual turnover of around £9 million and a contribution of £36.4 million to Scotland’s economy prior to the draft Masterplan, Montrose Port has already proven its economic importance.

The draft Masterplan significantly amplifies this impact, positioning Montrose as a critical national asset supporting trade, energy security and productivity growth.

By enabling investment, creating jobs and supporting the energy transition, the draft Masterplan ensures Montrose Port continues to deliver long‑term economic resilience for Angus and makes a powerful contribution to Scotland’s wider economic ambitions.