New deep-water harbour anchors 50-year vision for Eyemouth
Last updated 26th Aug 2025
Plans to create a deep-water harbour at Eyemouth anchors a new 50-year vision for the future of the Borders fishing port.
Proposals for the £250 million pound development were unveiled at the launch of a masterplan at the quayside this morning (Tuesday).
Backed by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and led by Eyemouth Harbour Trust, the ambitious document aims to address the decline in the fishing industry and transform the town into a vital hub for the UK's offshore wind industry, as well as marine leisure, cruise and cargo ships.
If funding and other approvals can be secured, it's envisaged construction could begin within the next five years and be operational as soon as 2031.
“This is about futureproofing the harbour and the town,” said Christine Bell, Chief Executive of Eyemouth Harbour Trust. “Eyemouth’s history and culture is born from fishing, but its future must also lie in securing opportunities in renewable energy, marine tourism and innovation to deliver a lasting legacy for future generations. This Masterplan can get us there.
“Eyemouth has been a working harbour for more than 250 years, and with this Masterplan, we’re making sure it stays that way, not just surviving, but thriving.
"We’ve built this vision from the ground up, based on meaningful engagement with harbour users, local businesses, and the wider community, as well as Scottish Borders Council and South of Scotland Enterprise.
"Eyemouth is geographically and strategically well placed and now we need the infrastructure to match. This Masterplan will ensure we can play our part in delivering the energy transition, while safeguarding the industries that built this town.”
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EHT has secured further funding through UK Government’s Community Regeneration Partnership Fund, managed by Scottish Borders Council, to progress the next 12 months of activities, including the early technical feasibility work that will inform design as well as preparing the Outline Business Case.
Additionally, scoping for environmental impact assessment will get off the ground.
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: "The Eyemouth Harbour Masterplan launch is a key milestone towards delivering a significant transformation of the town's quayside and I welcome this vision to boost economic growth in the area and help deliver the UK's clean energy revolution.
"The UK Government is working closely with partners across Scotland, including Eyemouth, to invest around £1.7 billion in local projects as we deliver a decade of national renewal as part of our Plan for Change."
The Masterplan, which has been subject to extensive stakeholder engagement and public consultation, marks a turning point for Eyemouth and the harbour, whose first pier was built in 1747 although the natural harbour dated back to the 13th century and had been used for the trade and cargo of its day.
It seeks to address operational constraints, such as limited berthing space, shallow water depth, and ageing infrastructure.
If delivered, it's estimated it could net an additional £20 million a year for the local economy, protect existing jobs and creating new ones.
A new breakwater will also provide more shelter for the existing harbour and help protect the coastline from erosion.
The public are being invited to view the plans at an exhibition in Eyemouth Golf Club on Wednesday (August 27th) between 1pm and 4pm, and 6pm and 8pm.
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Russel Griggs OBE, Chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, said: "The Eyemouth Harbour Masterplan offers a massive economic opportunity for Eyemouth and the Scottish Borders. This long-term vision has received significant support from partners including SOSE and Scottish Borders Council, with both organisations recognising what the transformation of the Harbour can achieve, particularly around offshore wind.
“We look forward to continuing to support Eyemouth Harbour Trust’s ambitious plans.”
And Councillor Scott Hamilton, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Economic Growth and Developing the Borders, added: “Eyemouth Harbour Trust must be commended for the work that has gone into developing this exciting Masterplan, which seeks to capitalise on various opportunities and builds upon recent investment and regeneration activities.
“Scottish Borders Council will continue to support the Trust to turn this ambitious vision into reality, protect and create employment opportunities and secure public and private sector investment into the town.”
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