Project identifies huge potential for River Tay

Plans which could give a significant boost to the economy of towns and villages along the River Tay were outlined on June 12 during a boat trip between Newburgh and Perth.

Representatives of local community groups, the public sector, tourism and the Tay Salmon Fisheries Company boarded the May Princess to see the work that has been carried out as part of the Tay Regeneration Project.

The initial phase, a joint initiative between Fife Rural Partnership and Tay Salmon Fisheries, has focussed on the Newburgh area, where a riverside path to the County Burn, near the Perthshire border, has recently been completed. It ties in with other work, including the acquisition of the piers and former Tay Salmon Fisheries boatyard in Newburgh.

It is hoped to introduce the river taxis next year as part of a green transportation plan, with the craft calling at various points along the Tay.
They will also be used to ferry visitors to former net fishermen’s bothies when they are restored as holiday let properties.

Other work earmarked includes the restoration of landing points and piers, along with the re-creation of paths to and within Perth, some involving new footbridges.

Longer term plans show the potential for a marina in Perth, which could accommodate a hotel and public piazza overlooking the river.

David Clarke, chairman of Tay Salmon Fisheries, who already operates a river taxi service in Lincolnshire with the local authority, said the trip from Newburgh had brought together everyone with an interest and responsibility for the Tay as well as a shared vision for its future.

“I hope that this will be the first of an annual trip on the Tay to identify what progress has been made, to be followed up later in the year by a land-based visit to inspect the historic piers and bothies which are to be renovated.

“The work on re-creating the path between Newburgh and the County Burn and the acquisition of the piers at Newburgh by the Community Trust and purchase of the former boatyard by Tay Salmon Fisheries shows what can be achieved by working together.”

Councillor Andrew Arbuckle, chair of the Area Committee for Fife Council, described it as a “significant day” for Newburgh, as it once again reconnected the town with the river.

“Newburgh's history is linked to the Tay and all of its past industries have flourished because of this link.”
“Now, in the early years of the 21st century, we are about to embark on a new enterprise, with great potential for tourism.”