An “ambitious” vision aimed at enhancing Fraserburgh Harbour over the next two decades has been set out.
The masterplan for the north-east port was first mooted more than a year ago and following an extensive consultation proposals for the project have been drawn up.
Fraserburgh Harbour Commissioners have set out a string of new ideas to improve infrastructure at the quay in a bid to boost growth and attract new business.
Some of the potential upgrades include an extension to the existing breakwater and the construction of a new deep-water basin at the south end of the harbour.
Proposals also include deepening Faithlie Harbour, improving access to the fish market, widening the entrance to Balaclava Harbour and improving the ship lift facility.
A document alongside the blueprints said all of the suggestions would have a “profound and transformational impact” on harbour business and the town by increasing economic activity that would “stimulate investment and regeneration.”
Harbour chairman Michael Murray said their ideas show that Fraserburgh wants to continue to be a “major player” in the fishing industry.
He said the “ambitious” proposals are only the “first stage” of their vision for the port over the next 20 years.
Mr Murray said: “It highlights Fraserburgh Harbours desire to remain a major player in the fishing industry. Our past is steeped in the industry and we will continue this for long into the future.
“If we are to deliver this we need to ensure we meet the needs of the new and old vessels landing into the port.
“The plan covers numerous new projects to the port which will allow us to tap into new markets and improve the services we can provide.”
The next step for the process is to outline a business case to understand the economic and financial impacts of the proposals and to look at potential funding options.
Last night, north-east Conservative MSP Peter Chapman said the blueprints set out a “clear and positive vision” for Fraserburgh.
He said: “It is exciting to think how the harbour could be transformed over the next two decades. Extending the existing breakwater and creating a new deep-water basin at the south end of the harbour could have a tremendous impact on the fortunes of the port.
“This masterplan is the blueprint for what we all hope will be a thriving harbour at Fraserburgh for many years to come.”
Fraserburgh Harbour is still home to a sizeable fishing fleet although it has diversified and is used by commercial cargo vessels and the offshore renewables.
Last year it was announced the harbour would be the base of operations for the Moray East windfarm.
As part of that a public consultation event on the masterplan will take place at the North East Scotland College campus on Henderson Road, Fraserburgh on Wednesday, May 15 between 1pm and 6pm.
Anyone hoping to discuss the masterplan can complete the questionnaire at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Fraserburgh_Harbour_Masterplan