FLAG fund success for Scrabster and Lossiemouth

Scrabster and Lossiemouth harbours have secured funding through the Highland & Moray Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) to install new pontoons to cater for the increasing demand for berthing space.  Lossiemouth also received funding towards an innovative dredging system to allow regular dredging to be carried out ensuring the pontoons will be accessible at all times.

Jason Hamilton, Harbour Master, Scrabster Harbour Trust “With an already oversubscribed marina creating new berthing facilities will relieve the pressure on our current pontoons and help us accommodate our growing fishing, leisure and cruise customers.  We are delighted to have the support of the FLAG who have recognised our ambitions for the harbour to continue to create jobs and income for the local community.”

Amanda Chisholm, Marina Manager, on behalf of the Board of Elgin and Lossiemouth Harbour Company “The Company is delighted to receive the support from Highland & Moray FLAG.  The East basin pontoon development will allow Lossiemouth Marina to accommodate the ever-increasing demand for visitors and customers alike.  The new in-house dredging equipment will enable continuous dredging operations within the marina ensuring ease of access and securing the future sustainability and viability of the harbour.” 

The funding has been awarded under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund to encourage community-led local development and enable localised decision making though Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs). 

The Highland & Moray FLAG membership is representative of local community and industry interests who will consider applications and decide how funding should be allocated locally.  The Highland Council provides administrative support to the FLAG and to those applying to the fund through the employment of a local FLAG Development Officer. 

Funding can be used to support a wide range of projects that will support community rejuvenation, enterprise, innovation, job creation and skills enhancement across the fishing, aquaculture and maritime industries.

The fund is open to sole traders, businesses (targeted at small and medium sized enterprises), community groups, and third sector organisations located within Highland and Moray coastal communities.

The FLAG is now inviting Expressions of Interest to be submitted by 1st September 2017 for projects to be considered at the next FLAG meeting in October.  Further funding rounds will be announced in due course. 

For further guidance and to obtain a copy of the Expressions of Interest form please contact the FLAG Development Officer Sarah Lamb on 01955 609560 or email sarah.lamb@highland.gov.uk.  Further information and a copy of the form can also be found at www.highlandmorayflag.co.uk