Four projects from the Aberdeenshire European Fisheries Fund (AEFF) have received more than £72,000 to boost sustainable development in the region's fisheries areas.

Launched in 2012, the AEFF awards grants to fisheries-related projects demonstrating innovation, increasing community capacity and improving economic output in Aberdeenshire's fishing communities. It is financed by the European Commission and administered locally by the Aberdeenshire Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) partnership, of which Aberdeenshire Council is the lead partner.

Following last month's meeting of the Aberdeenshire FLAG, four projects were approved in the latest round of funding.

They include a project to enhance visitor facilities at Gardenstown Harbour, providing a kitchen facility and additional outdoor seating, and new information technology provision at the Fraserburgh Harbour's fishmarkets. Approval was also given to help promote the north east industry through the creation of a Development Officer post.

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The introduction of a dedicated development officer for Peterhead and Fraserburgh Fish Processors Association will continue to promote the north east fishing industry and processors, encouraging better market conditions and adding value to locally landed and processed seafood produce.

Sandhaven and Pitullie Harbour will benefit from a project to increase berthing capacity and to install new pontoons. A further 20 mooring berths for small pleasure vessels will be created.

FLAG chair, Belinda Miller, said: "The projects approved in Round 5 of AEFF demonstrate there is great opportunity to develop and add value to Aberdeenshire's fishing industry through the programme.

"It's important we also remember and promote our maritime heritage and develop this for future years.

"The mix of projects in Round 5 offer both industry and community benefits and I look forward to seeing these projects advance, continuing to increase regional capacity.

"The approved projects offer real opportunities for economic prosperity in coastal communities."

AEFF coordinator, Ann Marie Macaskill, added: "With the AEFF programme operational for over a year now, it is clear to see the benefits as projects get underway and complete.

"I'm delighted AEFF is engaging the Aberdeenshire fishing industry and the industry-led project approved in this round illustrates the commitment to continually develop and add value to our precious fish stocks.

"From kitchen facilities for dedicated fish supper nights, to enabling harbour walls, to supporting the development of innovative solutions that will add value to and promote our excellent and high value species landed in Aberdeenshire, AEFF is offering opportunities for the continued development of our coast.

"We continue to welcome project ideas and work with individuals, groups and businesses to develop thoughts into opportunities that will prosper for years to come."

(JP/CD)