Eyemouth plans major harbour transformation

Eyemouth, Scotland’s most southerly commercial port on the east coast, is set for its most ambitious transformation in over a century, with plans to develop a £250 million deep-water harbour.

Four members of Eyemouth Harbour Trust standing on a red gangway holding aloft the harbour's masterplan

The project, led by Eyemouth Harbour Trust (EHT) and supported by the UK government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, forms the centrepiece of the newly released Eyemouth Harbour Masterplan.

“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.”

The plan outlines a 50-year strategic vision to position Eyemouth as a key player in the UK’s offshore wind and marine economy. The proposed harbour will include 700m of quayside berthing, 10m water depth, and two hectares of laydown space, supporting industries from fishing and cargo to cruise and renewables. Opportunities also exist for mixed-use development to strengthen supply chain activities.

Public consultation revealed strong community backing, with 80% rating the expansion as a high or medium priority. The masterplan promises over £20 million in annual GVA, sustainable job creation and enhanced infrastructure for climate resilience.

If approved, construction could begin before 2030, with operations starting as early as 2031. EHT has also secured additional funding from the UK government’s Community Regeneration Partnership Fund to advance technical feasibility studies and environmental assessments.