RENEWABLES offer real hope of a boost for Buckie Harbour and the town in general, insists a local business leader.
The development of a renewables industry, based around the harbour, is a key plank in the Moray Local Development Plan.
Proposals from the development go on public exhibition in the town today (Monday) from 3-8pm in the Buckie Town House West.
And David Robertson, who runs a local newsagent and card store, says renewables could create a micro industry in the town.
Mr Robertson, chairman of the Buckie Business and Retail Association, said: “Buckie has a huge amount of guys who work offshore, almost like a micro economy, and they spend their money locally with shops and businesses.
“It would be great if we could create another micro economy in renewables based around the harbour.
“It would also be a chance for young people to gain real skills locally and utilise the harbour more.”
Proposals within the main issues report also include the development of a five-hectare site for an East Moray Science and Business Campus at March Road, more central area office provision and additional development land at Harbour Road and March Road.
The document also identifies that Buckie is likely to need in the region of 240 new houses over the next 10 years.
Moray councillor Gordon McDonald, who chairs the Buckie Regeneration Group, urged the public to get involved in the process.
“Renewable energy offers the potential for a new lease of life for the harbour, but the council has got to push its case, as people will not come to us,” he said.
The council launched a marketing and promotional drive for the harbour last year, which he hopes will pay off.
