The Dorset and East Devon Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) fund launched at the Crab House Café in Weymouth on Monday 13th March. This £800,000 investment in the Fisheries Industry from Swanage through to Beer will see local representatives from the fishing, aquaculture and related industries help develop projects which boost the local economy.
Joe Miller, of Swanage and District Fishermen’s Association, said “The award of the FLAG for the area will hopefully see the facilities around local harbours be brought up to date. It is clear from the work of previous FLAG’s in other areas that there are some great benefits available and I hope that the Dorset and East Devon FLAG can bring similar benefits here.”
The money, secured by the Dorset Coast Forum and Dorset County Council has been awarded by the Marine Management Organisation as part of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. It will be available for match funding for projects that meet the local needs for the area set out in the Local Development Strategy. Local representatives and experts from the industry will make funding decisions that will best help the needs of the local fisheries sector.
Cllr Peter Finney, Dorset County Council Cabinet member for Environment said: “I am really pleased that the Dorset Coast Forum and Dorset County Council helped to secure this funding. The FLAG will go a long way to assisting the local fishing communities to increase their economic resilience and improve their sustainability moving forward. This fund will allow local people to be involved in projects that will enhance the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the area.”
Rhiannon Jones, FLAG Coordinator said “This fund is a great opportunity for local people in the fisheries-related sectors to have a say in how eligible projects could help develop the FLAG area’s economy. The FLAG board have a wealth of knowledge and experience in these sectors and with their expertise, we hope to make a real difference to the fishing industry.”
The first call for expressions of interest is now open and organisations, businesses and individuals are encouraged to come forward with projects that fit with the Local Development Strategy. If you would like to know more or submit an Expression of Interest please visit www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/FLAG or contact [email protected] or call 01305 224833
