A recent survey of British Marine members in Scotland “reveals an optimistic, confident sector”, the industry body says.

More than half of respondents to the British Marine Scotland survey earlier this year reported increased business, while two thirds declared development plans they intend to progress over the next five years.

The survey also showed more than two thirds of members saw the regional marine tourism strategy Awakening the Giant — which targets increasing marine’s economic value from £350m to over £450m by next year — as highlighting the sector’s potential.

“This response has further endorsed plans to refresh the strategy for 2020-25,” British Marine Scotland says.

Undertaken in preparation for a “refresh” of the British Marine Scotland business plan, the survey has highlighted “priority areas for development” especially in regards to training, skills and careers in the marine sector.

One response is a shift of focus from already developed boatbuilding and repair training to marina and boatyard skills, with British Marine Scotland saying it has invited partners to discuss what can be done.

The summary report on the survey is available from the British Marine website. A draft update of the Marine Tourism Strategy will be launched at the Scottish Marine Trade and Marine Tourism Symposium in Edinburgh this coming Friday 15 November ahead of a consultation period and launch of the updated strategy next spring.