Moray Council sets out vision for a fair and sustainable future through Just Transition Fund

Moray Council has unveiled its strategic vision to secure a fair and proportionate share of the Scottish Government’s North East Just Transition Fund, marking a significant step forward in the region’s journey toward a low-carbon, inclusive economy.

With only 4%, approximately £3m, of the Fund’s current allocations awarded to Moray to date, the council is taking decisive action to ensure the region’s unique needs and opportunities are fully recognised in future funding rounds. The Just Transition Fund, a £500m commitment over ten years, aims to support communities in Moray and the North East as they transition away from carbon-intensive industries. Moray’s share of the Fund is estimated to be £81m over the ten year lifecycle of the Fund.

Moray’s vision is rooted in a place-based approach that reflects the region’s distinct demographic, economic, and geographic characteristics. It focuses on:
•    Reducing emissions across households, businesses, and public services
•    Supporting training and upskilling for emerging green sectors
•    Promoting sustainable land use and natural resource management
•    Empowering communities to benefit from net zero opportunities
•    Attracting green jobs and investment to Moray

The council secured around £880,000 through the first round of the Fund for five projects including the Blackhillock Masterplan; Buckie Harbour feasibility study; natural capital opportunities study; vacant and derelict land feasibility study; and the hydrogen study. The Just Transition Fund also funded a range of initiatives in across Moray from the Cabrach Distillery and Findhorn, Nairn and Lossie Rivers Trust to Findhorn Ecovillage, UHI Moray and tsiMoray.

Following agreement of the vision for the future, Moray Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson said: “Moray has a compelling case for a greater share of the Just Transition Fund. Our vision is ambitious, inclusive, and tailored to the region’s strengths - from our natural capital and distilling industry to our skilled workforce and community-led innovation.

“I will continue to engage with the Scottish Government to ensure the Fund reflects the region’s specific needs and supports long-term, strategic investment.”

Initial project ideas identified through stakeholder workshops include:
•    Buckie Harbour Redevelopment to support offshore renewables
•    Natural Capital Initiatives to enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration
•    Sustainable Construction Projects using local timber and brownfield sites
•    Skills Campus at UHI Moray for trades in renewables and land-based industries
•    Renewable Energy Microgrids for community resilience
•    Green Energy Parks to foster low-carbon enterprise

The council has committed to further developing these ideas through continued engagement with elected members, community partners, and regional stakeholders. A shortlist of projects is expected to be presented in January 2026 for submission to the 2026/27 round of the Fund.