Local traders in the heart of the north-east’s biggest town have joined forces in a bid to improve the area.
The Rediscover Peterhead scheme involves town centre business owners and shopkeepers forming a group to create an official business improvement district.
With more than 30 BIDs already in place across Scotland – including sites in Inverness and Aberdeen – the project will involve firms voluntarily contributing money to develop the local environment.
The hope is that the group can help entrepreneurs create a coherent vision for the town and collaborate to make the port more attractive for shoppers.
Last night John Pascoe of Peterhead Business Forum, one of the group’s vice-chairmen, said he was relishing the opportunity to make a “real difference” for firms in the town.
He added: “The Peterhead BID will work in partnership to continually improve the experience of the town centre.
“We all remember how successful the town once was – Rediscover Peterhead will aim to ensure that the centre of the Blue Toon fulfils its potential once more.
“We will work diligently to make this a pleasant place to work, to attract trade and tourism, and ensure it is a vibrant, safe, clean and lively place for everyone to enjoy.”
Fellow vice-chairman Iain Sutherland – manager of the Something Special store – added: “We cannot simply sit back and hope that what could be, will be.
“This is our chance to make sure we raise investment locally to increase footfall, improve business performance and create a compelling, interesting offer.”