13 August 2020

Aberdeenshire Council embarks on South Harbours Improvement Plan consultation

Residents and businesses are being given the opportunity to help shape the future of three harbours in the south of Aberdeenshire.
 
The South Aberdeenshire Harbours Improvement Plan moves a step forward this week with the launch of an online consultation on a series of possible projects for Stonehaven, Johnshaven and Gourdon.
 
Aberdeenshire Council – in association with consultants Ironside Farrar - has developed a range of potential projects and is encouraging the public to make comment to further shape these ideas. 
 
It is hoped that the Improvement Plan and projects will capture future external funding to improve the harbours and facilities, support the traditional fishing industry and other local businesses as well as growing areas such as tourism.
 
Responses to the consultation will be analysed and considered along with any other available evidence to help complete the final Improvement Plan.
 
The consultation – which has received 66% funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund through NESFLAG - runs from Thursday, August 13 to Friday, August 28 and can be accessed at https://www.aberdeenshireharbours.co.uk/news/ship/
 
Chair of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, Councillor Peter Argyle, said: “Our harbours support a wide range of commercial and leisure interests which are hugely-important to the areas they serve. 
 
“However, it is vital we continue to look for external funding streams to improve our harbours, plan ahead and look to develop innovative new projects to ensure they remain viable and fit-for-purpose in the future.”
 
Vice-chair Councillor John Cox added: “Our string of harbours and marinas round the Aberdeenshire coast are hugely important not just for harbour users - whether commercial or leisure – but are, of course, a great attraction for visitors locally and from far afield.
 
“It is vital we listen to these people to maximise these assets, so this consultation is very important to capture as many comments and ideas to develop the long-term prosperity of the communities they serve.”
 
Further information can also be obtained from consultants Ironside Farrar by emailing mail@ironsidefarrar.com