05 January 2017

Regeneration of Fraserburgh enters new phase

Efforts to revive the historic fishing port of Fraserburgh took another step forward recently with the first meeting of a local regeneration project board.

The Fraserburgh Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) Project Board will oversee the delivery of the £5.7million Fraserburgh 2021 scheme.

At its inaugural meeting before Christmas the board decided to launch a small grant scheme in the New Year for eligible property owners in the town centre Conservation Area.

Fraserburgh 2021 is a long-term regeneration effort to restore the built-heritage of the town, improve the town centre and improve health and wellbeing.

The redevelopment of the Saltoun Square Council Chambers and the adjacent former Police Station is a key part of the town’s Fraserburgh Conservation Area.

The intention is to have an innovative mix of new uses, from an improved Council Service Point to facilities for community and civic functions.

A dedicated Enterprise Hub on the site will look to educate, support and accelerate indigenous business growth and ensure a pipeline of growing local businesses.

It is being developed in partnership with the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Environment Scotland, among others.

The project board is comprised of local councillors, Fraserburgh Development Trust, Fraserburgh Community Council, Fraserburgh Heritage Society, Fraserburgh Academy, NESCol and the Construction Industry Training Board.

Vice chair of the Banff and Buchan Area Committee and Fraserburgh and District councillor, Brian Topping, said: “There is widespread local acknowledgement that a town centre conservation area will accelerate regeneration. 

“The vision is to transform the image and quality of the historic core of Fraserburgh by investing in the unique built and cultural heritage.  

“This will be achieved through a number of key priority projects including the restoration of the Town House and former Police Station on Kirk Brae.”

Over the next four years, Fraserburgh 2021 will focus on the regeneration of key priority buildings and a programme of public realm works.

Chair of the Banff and Buchan Area Committee, John Cox, said: “Small grants can lead to big improvements in the physical condition of buildings. 

“The launch of the small grant scheme in 2017 will enable property owners within the conservation area to claim up to £10,000 for eligible works.   

“I am pleased the Project Board has agreed the framework for delivery of the scheme and would encourage property owners to make the most of this opportunity when the scheme is launched early this year – details will follow.”

For further information on Fraserburgh 2021, or to get involved, contact Ross Mccleary on 07920 478309, or email: ross.mccleary@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

You can also follow the project on Facebook @Fraserburgh2021 and more information is available online.