Investing in coastal towns and Aberdeenshire’s seafood sector will “lay the foundations” for the region’s recovery as senior councillor has said.
Aberdeenshire Council has been awarded more than £442,000 from the Scottish Crown Estate, which is to be spent on a variety coastal community initiatives by March next year.
A further £288,000 of funding will be available via a new Challenge Fund and an existing business grants programme will also be in place to support the region.
Councillor John Cox believes the new funding will be key in helping the region bounce back from the economic ramifications of the pandemic.
Mr Cox, who is also vice-chairman of the council’s infrastructure services committee, said: “Investing in our coastal towns and key sectors such as seafood – especially adding value to our seafood right here in the north-east – will help lay the foundations for a robust economic recovery.
“Coastal communities funding is a welcome addition to enhance and complement existing business support and town centre regeneration initiatives.”
Communities and businesses can apply for the funding through various avenues – including through the North East Scotland Fisheries Local Action Group and the Business Resilience And Sustainability Scheme.
Chairman of the council’s infrastructure services committee, Peter Argyle, added: “This additional funding provides a great opportunity to support and develop Aberdeenshire’s coastal communities and businesses who are facing challenging circumstances.”
Further information can be found by contacting coastalcommunities@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.
