Peterhead Councillor Leeann McWhinnie Welcomes New Coastal Communities Opportunity

Buchan Communities Benefit from Last Funding Round
Peterhead North and Rattray SNP councillor Leeann McWhinnie has welcomed the opening of a new round of funding from the Coastal Communities Fund this week.

Amongst the local communities and organisations benefitting from funding awards in 2022 were Buchanhaven Harbour SCIO for repairs to pier and slipway, and the East Grampian Coastal Partnership.

Commenting, Cllr Leeann McWhinnie said:

“Since the Scottish Government gained control of the Crown Estate Scotland’s revenues, we’ve seen that money flow into coastal communities where it rightly belongs.

“I would encourage coastal communities and organisations with a link to the coast to consider how they could make use of the sums available.”

Grants are being targeted at community groups, third sector organisations and small businesses on Aberdeenshire’s coastline, and can fund a range of activities with positive economic, social or environmental impacts.

This year’s grants will be targeted towards activities or infrastructure which meet the following priorities:

• Supporting the development of active travel routes along, to and from the coastline 
• Developing the coastal economy and sustainable tourism 
• Creating or enhancing community, leisure and recreational facilities 
• Safeguarding, restoring or enhancing the coastal environment

Grants between £10,000 and £50,000 will be available, whilst applicants must make a minimum 10% match funding contribution to projects. Small business applicants must contribute 50% match funding.

Due to budget conditions, all projects must be completed within the 2023-24 financial year.

The deadline for submission of applications is 6 February 2023 and potential applicants can access the application form and guidance by emailing coastalcommunities@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or by visiting www.nesflag.org.uk/cccf.