Moray secures £1.2 million Just Transition Fund investment
Moray is set to benefit from £1.2 million of investment from the Scottish Government's Just Transition Fund to help progress projects that support economic growth, investment and the transition to a low-carbon future.
The funding will support two key projects that form part of Moray's wider Just Transition programme.
A total of £900,000 has been awarded for Buckie Harbour Redevelopment enabling works, helping to progress plans that could strengthen Moray's role in the marine and offshore energy sector. The funding will support technical studies, design development, environmental assessments and business case preparation required for the harbour's future expansion.
A further £300,000 has been awarded towards the Green Energy Parks project, which is being led by Crown Estate Scotland with Moray Council as a partner. The project will explore opportunities at strategic sites including Mosstodloch and Dallachy Airfield, helping to unlock future investment, job creation and clean energy development.
The successful funding bid was developed by Moray Council in collaboration with partner organisations as part of a long-term programme of projects designed to ensure Moray benefits from Scotland's transition to net zero.
Cllr Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council's Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee, said: “This is a very welcome investment in Moray's future. The funding will help us develop projects with the potential to create economic opportunities, support jobs and strengthen our communities as we move towards a low-carbon economy.
“Buckie Harbour is a strategically important asset for Moray, while the Green Energy Parks project has the potential to attract future investment and support growth in emerging industries. This award is recognition of the strength of the partnership working that has taken place across Moray and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the area benefits from a just transition.”
Annie Breadon, Crown Estate Scotland, Interim Director of Corporate Operations, commented: “We believe that strategic sites across Moray have the potential – as Green Energy Parks – to become valuable contributors to the regional economy, supporting skilled employment, renewable energy and sustainable communities in the future.
“In order to reach that potential, they will need new infrastructure investment around them – and these funds will help to unlock it.”