More than £500,000 of essential work to repair a bustling Moray harbour will begin next week.
Cracks in the pier and holes in the sea bed have opened up at Portknockie while the port is exposed to the elements.
The remedial operation was originally due to take place last year, but engineers will now move in on the north pier, Macdonald’s pier and entrance jetty on Monday with the work expected to be finished before the end of next month.
Keith and Cullen councillor Ron Shepherd said: “I was disappointed it was held back last year, but I am delighted it’s happening now and there is a lot of investment in it.
“It’s a busy little working harbour with a lot of boats coming in and out. The repairs are going to be a huge benefit for everyone that uses it.
“It’s all down to general wear and tear. It takes a hell of a pounding every day from the high tides and the strength of wind.”
Other concerns about the pier will be addressed with repairs also being done to walls at the port. Harbour users have been warned to navigate the water with caution while the £560,000 project is implemented.
The north pier is being closed to the public while work is underway with other areas possibly needing to be shut off at short notice.