​£1 million pound funding boost for Highland and Moray fishing communities

Highland and Moray fishing communities are being encouraged to apply for a share of £1 million pounds of European Funding to support the sustainable development of fisheries areas. 

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

A Highland and Moray FLAG has now been established with membership representative of local community and fishing industry interests who will consider applications and decide how funding should be allocated locally. 

Funding can be used to support a wide range of projects that will deliver on local priorities including adding value to fisheries products, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth in fishing, aquaculture and marine based industries, promoting co-operation and innovation as well as enhancing environmental assets.

The FLAG is now inviting businesses and local groups to submit Expressions of Interest as soon as possible for projects to be considered at the next FLAG meeting in November.  Further rounds will be announced in due course. 

Duncan Pockett, Chair of the Highland and Moray Fisheries Local Action Group, said: “Building on the experience and success of previous FLAGs we look forward to receiving Expressions of Interest from fishing communities who can benefit from this European Funding, it’s a fantastic opportunity to provide financial assistance to strengthen the resilience of our local communities and maritime industries.”

For further guidance and to obtain a copy of the Expressions of Interest form please contact the EMFF 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