More than £6.5 million awarded to modernise seafood processing facilities in the north-east
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More than £6.5 million has been awarded to modernise and expand seafood processing facilities across Banff and Buchan in a major boost for the north-east fishing industry.
The cash boost is part of package of measures which the government says will help fishing industry thrive and deliver a healthier marine environment.
David Duguid MP hailed the UK Government money as “transformational” in protecting the long-term future and sustainability of the sector while creating jobs across the region.
As part of the UK Seafood Fund, £5 million has been awarded to Northbay Pelagic in Peterhead for the upgrade of its processing facility and new equipment to increase capacity by up to 35,000 tonnes a year.
A further £850,000 has been given to Peterhead’s Alisrose Limited to expand its wastewater treatment plant while £700,000 has been awarded to wholesale fish merchants Enter Foods, based in Fraserburgh, for a new seafood processing and cold store facility.
The UK Seafood Fund is a landmark government investment supporting the fishing and seafood industry, with the infrastructure strand of the fund helping to pay for upgrades to ports, processing and aquaculture facilities so they can meet future demand while also boosting jobs and economic growth.
The infrastructure scheme also supports businesses to become more environmentally sustainable through investment in greener technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to more reusable materials.
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid said: “This is hugely welcome for businesses in Banff and Buchan which will help to boost innovation and sustainability.
“The UK Government funding will ensure seafood businesses throughout the supply chain are well-equipped to keep pace with increasing demand at home and abroad, boosting production and building a resilient sector for the future.
“There is no doubt this money will help to safeguard and grow our domestic food supply in Banff and Buchan as well as securing local jobs in the area.
“The north-east has a thriving seafood sector and this will go a long way to ensure we remain world leaders in the industry.”
