A £2.6million project to replace an electricity line for businesses in a north-east port has been welcomed by community leaders.
Firms at Fraserburgh harbour currently use generators to supplement the power provided by the existing cable.
However, the arrangement has been branded a drain on the town’s economy.
Councillor Charles Buchan said: “The cable at present has a limited capacity. If there’s a big influx of mackerel that comes in, and all the machines are running, the safety cut outs just blow and everyone is stuck.
“It’s proving to be a severe drawback for the economy of Fraserburgh. The present infrastructure simply cannot carry the amount of current necessary.”
It is hoped the new power supply – to be funded by grants from Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and Marine Scotland – will help to attract additional businesses to the area and boost the fortunes of those already there.
Councillor Brian Topping, a former harbour commissioner, said the project, which is due to start in March, heralded an exciting future for the fishing port.
“It’s vital,” he said.
“I think it shows the commitment of the board to provide the best facilities. A lot of people aren’t aware that there are many companies still using generators. It’ll be a big asset for current users but will encourage people to come as well.”
The project will also allow vessels in the harbour to tap into the electricity supply, rather than using their diesel engines.
A spokeswoman for the town’s harbour board added: “This project increases the capacity available across the harbour area, giving existing businesses the ability to expand their processes, something that the current electricity capacity does not permit.”
The scheme has also been supported by Councillor Ian Tait, who said: “This cable will supply extra loading capacity and will bring considerable benefits for harbour users and greatly assist development at the harbour.”
A spokesman for Lunar, one of the businesses hoping to make use of the new power line, said: “This cable for additional power will give us increased daily freezing amounts, quicker turnarounds for the vessels, improved quality and additional landings.
“This project is essential to our company, to the economy, to the town and to Fraserburgh harbour.”