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Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the local authority for the Outer Hebrides, is to commence supplying bunker fuel at Stornoway Harbour.

The decision to extend its marine fuels facilities follows discussions with Stornoway Port Authority and the Western Isles Fishermen’s Association after the previous suppliers to Stornoway's fishing vessels ceased operating at the port.

The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles or Na h-Eileanan Siar, is an island chain off the west coast of Scotland. Stornoway is situated 30 miles off the north west coast of Scotland and is the main seaport of the Hebridean Islands.

Stornaway is the main entry/exit point for all goods imported to and exported from the island and one of the few ports on the West coast of Scotland offering two Ro-ro Linkspan facilities. Over 1000 vessel movements are recorded annually comprising of commercial vessels, daily car passenger and freight ferries, cruise liners and other vessel types.

The new project will involve the provision and operation of a 30,000 litre marine fuel tank.

Part of the project's costs will be covered through a European Fisheries Fund grant of £32,452 (US$53,100) whilst £20,817 (US$34,000) is to be raised by the local council for the initiative.