Moray Council Launches £133k Fund for Coastal Projects

MORAY COUNCIL HAS ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCH OF A NEW COASTAL COMMUNITY FUND GRANT SCHEME WORTH £133,180, SUPPORTED BY THE SCOTTISH CROWN ESTATE ALLOCATION FOR 2024/25

It's intended that successful projects will be chosen through a participatory budgeting process run via Moray Engage, ensuring communities have a direct say in how the money is allocated.

The scheme will provide grants between £10,000 and £20,000 to support projects that benefit communities along Moray’s coastline, with larger awards available for partnership initiatives. Community groups, charities, social enterprises, development trusts, educational institutions, and public sector organisations are all eligible to apply.  Projects must have a tangible link to the coast and/or sea and be located within 12 nautical miles of the Moray coastline.

The funding aims to support projects that:

• Boost coastal tourism and eco-innovation
• Enhance marine biodiversity and climate resilience
• Support sustainable fisheries, aquaculture and food systems
• Invest in marine renewables and low-carbon infrastructure
• Promote skills development, employment and inclusive growth
• Promote social inclusion and wellbeing

Examples of eligible projects include improvements to harbours and community buildings, initiatives that celebrate Moray’s coastal heritage, improved access to coastal paths and viewpoints, and environmental projects protecting local shorelines.

Applications will open on Monday 9 September and close on Friday 31 October 2025.

The fund recognises Moray’s coastline as a vital asset for sustainable development, helping communities thrive while supporting Scotland’s Blue Economy Vision, the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources to drive economic growth, protect the environment, and improve wellbeing.

Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: “This fund is an exciting opportunity for Moray’s coastal communities to bring forward projects that make a real difference - from protecting our natural environment and heritage, to developing skills, jobs and infrastructure. We want to empower local groups to shape their future and strengthen the resilience of our coastal areas for generations to come.”

All projects must be completed, and funding claimed by 31 March 2026. Further information on how to apply, will be available on the Moray Council website.