Safe Access Maters
The UK Government has relaunched the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), making £132 million in funding available over the next five years to support England’s fishing industry, ports and coastal communities.
The revised scheme creates significant opportunities for ports, harbours and marina operators seeking investment in infrastructure improvements, workforce safety and coastal regeneration projects.
Funding Available for Harbour Infrastructure and Safety Improvements
The Fisheries and Seafood Scheme will support projects including:
- Harbour and port infrastructure upgrades
- Commercial fishing access improvements
- Quay and pontoon safety enhancements
- Marina and berthing improvements
- Coastal regeneration projects
- Modernisation of ageing marine infrastructure
- Workforce safety and accessibility improvements
For the first time, ports with active commercial fishing operations can now apply for multi-year funding support.
Improving Safety Between Quay and Vessel
According to industry figures, 34% of lost-time accidents occur between the quay and the boat, often caused by:
- Unsafe ladders and access systems
- Uneven quay surfaces
- Poor level transitions
- Inadequate gangways or pontoons
- Slippery or ageing infrastructure
Improving safe access infrastructure is now a key focus area within the revised Fisheries and Seafood Scheme.
Funding Application Support from Inland and Coastal Marina Systems
At Inland and Coastal Marina Systems, we help ports, harbours and marine operators develop practical infrastructure improvement plans that strengthen funding applications.
Our team can provide:
- Initial site surveys
- Concept development
- Costed project designs
- Technical recommendations
- Project planning support
This initial assessment is provided with no obligation and no upfront cost.
We have already supported several successful harbour improvement projects and understand the operational, technical and safety requirements needed to strengthen funding applications.
Important 2026 Funding Deadlines
Applications for smaller projects can be submitted throughout the year.
Larger grant applications over £250,000 will be assessed through competitive funding rounds during 2026, making early project planning essential.
Fisheries and Seafood Scheme Guidance
Further information and official application guidance can be found via the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme on GOV.UK.
Proven Harbour Infrastructure Experience
“From concept to commissioning, Inland & Coastal were a pleasure to deal with”
– Sean Marshall, Deputy Harbour Master, Cattewater Harbour Commissioners
