Scotland’s coastal communities are set to gain from a raft of projects designed to protect the marine environment and stimulate economic activity, including in offshore wind.
Working closely with local authorities, community trusts, businesses, and local people, Crown Estate Scotland is backing a broad range of grassroots proposals providing support in terms of financial partnerships and investments, grants, and the funding of new staff.
Activity budgeted for 2022-23 includes £300,000 for Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council projects including supply chain and strategic investment activity, plus £75k,000 for Marine Scotland’s ScotMer Scottish Marine Energy Research programme.
The Scottish Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund, launched last month, will see NatureScot, Marine Scotland, and Crown Estate Scotland co-ordinating grants to assist practical solutions.
These could include the creation of new saltmarsh habitat, helping protect breeding seabirds, and researching new approaches to the restoration of marine environments.
Crown Estate Scotland director of corporate operations Esther Black said: “The health of Scotland’s seas and coasts are fundamental to how people live and work.
“Over 2022-23 and beyond we’ll be investing in a range of projects with local authorities, communities, and businesses, to help ensure coastal areas thrive.
“With an increasing focus on our seas to provide energy, food, and other essentials, it’s critical that natural resources are managed and cared for in a way that reflects local people’s ambitions and aspirations.”