Historic properties in central Fraserburgh could be further protected for future generations as part of a new regeneration drive.
A conservation zone could be set up in the town centre following a year-long study of the area’s older buildings.
Earlier this year, members of the Banff and Buchan area committee called for officials to investigate the idea. On Satruday, an early proposal for a Fraserburgh conservation area will be unveiled during a fun day in the town centre.
Alan Marshall, a conservation architect leading the study, said last night: “Fraserburgh has a unique history and the importance of its buildings and history in a national context has been hidden.
“The late 16th century Fraser’s Broch is the earliest of Scotland’s planned towns and has a unique layout. The development of the harbour and related industries has given Fraserburgh a robust, working heritage and a legacy of many fine buildings.”
He said: “The historic core of the town deserves a level of protection, enhancement and promotion that a conservation area brings.”
Feedback from locals on Saturday will be used to make any alterations to the proposal before it is progressed. Aberdeenshire Council is working on the scheme with Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund which could provide cash for regeneration, repairs and training opportunities.
Councillor Peter Argyll, who chairs the council’s infrastructure services committee, said: “The council’s regeneration strategy currently focuses on Fraserburgh, as the area of greatest need, and this is an interesting proposal emerging from the work done by officers in the town so far.
“There seems to be a lot of things happening around the town to help improve the area and its prospects, but public involvement is crucial and I hope people will take the chance to get involved in some of the work helping to shape the town for the future.”
Banff and Buchan area committee chairman John Cox added: “Fraserburgh was and remains a historic town of importance to the rest of the country, but like many other coastal towns around Scotland it is in need of a lift.
“Formal recognition of the town centre’s heritage would help preserve the value of what is there and hopefully bring a sense of pride in those who work and live locally.”
He has urged locals to attend the presentation on Saturday and let the council know what they think.