The North East Scotland Fisheries Development Partnership met on Friday 21 August 2026, discussing a range of topics including the challenges and opportunities facing the fishing industry, advancements in processing technology, and the development of ocean observation networks. Key decisions and discussions focused on the potential of by-product valorisation, the benefits of real-time oceanographic data collection, and updates from local ports on their ongoing projects and landings.

Vice-Chairs' Updates and Discussion

Elspeth Macdonald, representing the Scottish Fishermen's Federation, provided an update on the fishing and seafood sector. She highlighted recent ministerial visits, including those by Minister Jim Fairley from the Scottish Government and Stephen Marr Morgan MP from DEFRA, aimed at understanding the sector's challenges. Macdonald noted that negotiations for fishing opportunities for 2027 were approaching, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the UK and Scottish governments. She also touched upon ongoing work to finalise UK fisheries management plans, the imminent consultation on fisheries management measures for inshore marine protected areas, and the development of Scotland's new national marine plan. The impact of offshore wind development on the fishing industry was also raised, with concerns about unaddressed impacts. Macdonald also mentioned work on a strategic spatial energy plan for Great Britain and a national fishing action plan being developed in Westminster. She concluded by highlighting the persistent issue of high fuel prices affecting the fleet and the lack of immediate prospects for relief.

Nephrops and Developments in On Board Processing

Cara Bryden from Fisheries Innovation and Sustainability presented on a project to develop an automated machine for stunning and tailing nephrops for the scampi market. She explained that the project, which has been in development for less than three years and cost approximately £400,000, has successfully trialled a prototype capable of processing 200 prawns per minute. Bryden stressed that automation is not about job losses but about improving efficiency, safety, and retaining crew. She also discussed the need for independent assurance on animal welfare and product quality, with work being undertaken with Stirling University. The estimated cost for such a machine was between £120,000 and £250,000, with an independent assessment suggesting a payback period of around three years for certain vessels. Bryden also provided an update on the Smart Troll project, acknowledging that it was in the valley of death phase of development, requiring further technical work and funding.

Cluster Organisation

Stephen Marr, Engagement Manager for the Scottish Ocean Cluster, presented an update on the organisation's progress. The Scottish Ocean Cluster aims to add value to seafood by-products and side streams, positioning Scotland as a leader in the blue economy. Marr highlighted the significant commercial potential of seafood by-products, noting that globally, this market is projected to reach $64 billion by 2035. He outlined the cluster's roadmap for the next three years, which includes building networks, launching a membership model, and developing case studies. The cluster has received expressions of interest from approximately 80 seafood businesses across Scotland and is working with various academic institutions. Upcoming events include the Scottish Ocean Cluster Summit in Glasgow on 9 September and participation in the Icefish conference in Iceland.

FVON Deep Water Temperature Monitoring Project

Cooper van Vraken presented on the Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network (FVON), an international consortium advancing fishing vessel-based ocean observing. FVON aims to fill the coastal and shelf subsurface data gap, which is currently underserved by traditional oceanographic platforms. The project involves instrumenting fishing gears with sensors that relay data automatically, providing real-time information on temperature and other parameters. Van Vraken showcased live data from the Faroese research vessel, demonstrating how this information can benefit the fishing industry by informing fishing strategies and reducing scientific uncertainty. He also highlighted the broader benefits for fishery science management, weather forecasting, and climate change monitoring. The project is exploring co-financing mechanisms, with the cost for equipment for one trawler estimated at £2,000, plus annual data management fees.

Port Updates

Graeme Dey provided an update on Peterhead Port, reporting that whitefish landings were slightly down year-on-year but remained strong. Shellfish landings were comparable to the previous year, while pelagic species, particularly mackerel, showed a significant decrease due to quota cuts. Dey highlighted progress on the port's e-auction project, with three of the four planned clocks now operational and a fourth anticipated by late September. He also mentioned the conversion of the old MAPCO building into six fish processing facilities, named Jerry's Yard, which is nearing completion.

Pamela Neri reported on Fraserburgh Harbour, noting good landings for whitefish, prawns, and scallops. She detailed planned upgrades to the shiplift's drive and control system and the installation of a landing winch for small boats. Neri also highlighted successful school engagement initiatives and ongoing grant applications. The harbour is also progressing with its e-auction project, benefiting from Peterhead's earlier implementation. Additionally, Fraserburgh is developing its cruise ship tourism, focusing on smaller vessels and authentic North Aberdeenshire experiences.

Chris Bell provided a brief update from the Port of Aberdeen, stating that all was well and that they were supporting independent fishermen and working on projects to benefit the wider fishing industry.

Round Table Updates and Discussion

Ian Hay provided an update on the State of the Coast project, which aims to inform people about coastal ecosystems and industries. The project is conducting beach surveys and has engaged nearly 10,000 volunteers for the Turning the Plastic Tide initiative. He also mentioned that Peterhead and Fraserburgh are collaborating on identifying invasive species in their ports.

Jess Sparks from Seafish reported on skills development initiatives, including the availability of 100% funded courses for the onshore seafood industry through Marine Fund Scotland. Seafish is also enhancing its foundation apprenticeship offer for young people entering the seafood sector and has launched digital fisher ID cards to verify training. Sparks also noted the ongoing monitoring of marine diesel prices due to industry volatility.

Jenny from Seafood Scotland provided an update on the Japan Seafood Show, where Scottish businesses are exhibiting. She also confirmed that UK lobster exports to France were unaffected by new minimum size rules. Jenny highlighted the progress of the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's Skills Action Group and announced plans for virtual and in-person sessions for the Seafood and Schools initiative.

Councillor Dianne Beagrie confirmed that CFest would return next year with a new committee and chair.

Councillor Marc Macrae reported on a successful summer for cruise liners visiting Buckie, but noted a significant decline in cargo, particularly for the whisky industry. He also mentioned the development of a master plan for the harbour with support from the Scottish Government.

The meeting concluded with thanks to all participants and a commitment to follow up on various action points.