New hope for Findochty pontoon cash

HOPE may be on the horizon for frustrated Findochty Harbour users, a local councillor has revealed.

Ageing pontoons, including the closure of one due to damage in the wake of Storm Ciara, and other maintenance issues have long been bones of contention.

However, there may be calmer seas ahead with a push to get the capital money needed to provide new pontoons, according to Buckie Conservative councillor Tim Eagle.

He said “I’ve spoken to harbour staff about Findochty Harbour and the issues with ageing pontoons many times over recent months as it’s been a source of real frustration to harbour users in the village.

"Each time the staff have accepted the issues and done all they can to keep things running and I know they were disappointed that the money was not there to provide the new pontoons that were so badly needed.

"Whilst nothing is confirmed yet there might be good news ahead with the potential for a line in the capital plan due to be agreed on March 3 by full council that will allow harbour staff to begin the process of buying and fitting new pontoons.

“The only frustration is that it is not as simple as it sounds. First there is a process for licenses which require to be worked through with Marine Scotland and then designs and specs need to be finalised but I am hopeful that harbour users will take some comfort that, assuming this is agreed by councillors, the old pontoons will be away and new fresh pontoons put in.

"I am continuing to talk with officers about whether it’s possible to create more spaces for those on the waiting list and even provide one of the pontoons with electric and water for those who wish to take up premium spaces."

Also welcoming the news was Moray MP Douglas Ross, who has visited Findochty Harbour on several occasions and met with boat owners in Autumn 2019 to hear their concerns.

He added: “I have been contacted by a number of local people about Findochty Harbour and met with local boat owners to discuss the issue and look at possible solutions.

“It’s frustrating that Moray Council has so far not been able to instal the pontoons that are so badly needed but I’m encouraged to hear that thanks to the efforts of Tim and others that capital could be made available at the council budget next month. There is still a lot to do to secure this funding, but it’s a step in the right direction and I know the harbour users and clubs that operate from Findochty will welcome this investment.”

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