Moray Council has formally approved a critical shortlist of six projects, forming the basis of a substantial bid to the Scottish Government’s £500 million Just Transition Fund.
The proposed programme, valued at approximately £80.7 million, including project management and support service costs, aims to accelerate the region’s shift towards a net-zero economy, fostering new jobs and supporting innovation.
Central to Moray’s ambitions is the significant expansion of Buckie Harbour, the largest council-operated port in the region. The harbour’s redevelopment forms a cornerstone of its recently launched Masterplan, envisioning a versatile maritime hub capable of accommodating offshore wind, cargo, fishing, and cruise vessels. Plans include enhancing quayside access with heavy lift capabilities and expanded laydown areas, potentially increasing the port’s capacity from one to five large berths.
The immediate financial requirement for the Buckie Harbour project includes £15 million from the Just Transition Fund over four years (2026-2029) to develop the Outline and Full Business Cases. This initial phase is deemed “vital” for unlocking an estimated £500 million in subsequent private and public investment for the full construction phase.
Buckie’s strategic location positions it as a key asset for renewable energy, being the closest operational harbour to the Moray Firth offshore wind developments. The port already serves as the long-term Operations & Maintenance (O&M) base for the Moray West Offshore Wind Farm, a commitment projected to support approximately 60 local jobs for more than two decades. The harbour also maintains its traditional functions, supporting the local fishing fleet, cargo handling of diverse goods like timber and foodstuffs, and ship repair services.
Councillor Sonya Warren welcomed the inclusion of Buckie Harbour, stating: “Buckie is uniquely positioned as the closest operational harbour to the Moray Firth offshore wind developments, and if we get this right it can secure skilled local jobs, attract new investment and future-proof our harbour for decades to come.”
“The Just Transitions Fund shortlist represents a major opportunity for Buckie and the wider Moray coast, particularly through the proposed expansion of Buckie Harbour and investment in low-carbon housing and regeneration.”
The wider Moray bid encompasses five other critical initiatives: the Moray Natural Capital Enhancement and Skills Partnership; Buildings for the Future; Moray Community Solar; Green Energy and Employment Parks; and the Moray Hydrogen Transport Project. The “Buildings for the Future” programme is designed to tackle Moray’s pressing housing shortfall by delivering affordable, energy-efficient, low-carbon homes through the redevelopment of vacant and derelict sites. The council report underscored that “Moray faces a substantial housing shortfall, with demand far exceeding the supply of affordable, energy efficient homes”.
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Councillor Neil McLennan acknowledged Buckie Harbour’s existing contributions to the Just Transition, adding: “Not only does Buckie Harbour service one of Scotland’s most powerful offshore wind farms which is noted to be on target to produce enough power for half of Scotland’s homes, but it has potential for further developments from cruise ships to fishing innovation.” He emphasised the importance of a diversified energy supply, stating, “Just as Buckie Harbour supplies various needs and wants, our energy supply must be varied to ensure sustainability.”
Councillor Marc Macrae, Chair of the economic development and infrastructure services committee, remarked on the transformative potential: “If successful the Buckie Harbour Expansion project would allow the council to begin works to establish Buckie as a key hub for Scotland’s offshore renewables and low-carbon industries while supporting the traditional marine sectors.”
“This project and the larger Buckie Harbour Masterplan can future proof the harbour and surrounds for years to come.”
