Plain sailing for Scotland’s coastal conmunities thanks to funding award

Cash will boost a variety of projects along Scotland’s 10,000 miles of coastline, writes Amy Watson

Five projects ranging from upgrading harbours to refurbishing historic maritime buildings will share £4.3 million of Scottish Government funding aimed at regenerating coastal communities across the country.

Since its creation in 2012, the Coastal Communities Fund has invested around £17.7m in 69 projects across Scotland.

The latest award will see Dumfries and Galloway Council receive £300,000 towards the cost of upgrading 64 miles of coastal paths at Rhins of Galloway, and £300,000 for Harris Development Ltd to develop two pontoons for small boats, yachts and cruisers visiting the island.

Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust wins £200,000 to create a network of 25 whale watching and heritage sites across the west coast.

Bowling Basin – which marks the western end of the Forth and Clyde canal – also stands to benefit. Scottish Canals has won £300,000 to refurbish the former Custom House – a late 18th century listed building that dates to the waterway’s original opening.

Environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “With more than 10,000 miles of stunning coastline in Scotland we need to do all we can to protect the marine environment that lives there and to help people living and working in these areas make the most of the economic opportunities on offer.

“This latest £4.3m investment delivers on our commitment to supporting fishing and coastal communities and includes a range of exciting projects that will improve paths and facilities and create new opportunities to attract tourists.”

Gordon Macdonald, project chair of Harris Development Limited said: “The recent award of £300,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund has completed the £1.35m funding package required to create the Harris Marina Hub, a project which is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area through the development of marine tourism.

“The hub will complete a chain of pontoon facilities including Stornoway, Lochmaddy, Lochboisdale and Castlebay, which will help to consolidate and enhance the reputation of the Outer Hebrides as a premium sailing and cruising destination.”

0 Custom House at Bowling Basin