Traders in a north-east town are ushering in a “vibrant” new future, thanks to a £200,000 improvements scheme.
The Retail Plus initiative has provided grants of up to £5,000 to shopkeepers in Fraserburgh who want to improve their businesses.
A total of 46 owners have signed up for the facelifts, led by the Retailer Group business development project and Aberdeenshire Council.
Last night the local authority’s regeneration and town centres manager, Christine Webster, said the boost had brought a real buzz to the town.
“This is an exciting time for retailers in Fraserburgh as the programme is now at the stage where physical improvements to premises are taking place, giving both their business and premises a renewed vibrancy,” she said.
“I am very pleased with the air of optimism that the scheme has created and with the excellent feedback from businesses on the specialist advice that has been offered.”
Broad Street newsagent Ian Dyga said his award – worth £4,500 – had been spent on improving the front of the family business.
He added: “The scheme has been a great boost for Fraserburgh. Our next step is painting the outside and that should be us finished for just now.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity that Aberdeenshire Council and the Retailer Group have given Fraserburgh.
“Hopefully it’s just the start and will make Fraserburgh a more attractive place.”
More than £200,000 has been invested between Aberdeenshire Council and the businesses involved.
Local councillor Brian Topping said the work was helping to make the town-centre a more attractive option to shoppers.
“It makes all the difference for some businesses if money’s tight,” he said.
“Regeneration is not just about cleaning buildings, but if the place looks nice it is a good start.
“I’m really delighted for those who have taken the scheme up.”
The project previously ran in Banff and Macduff.