(un)Sustainability in Scotland’s coastal population space: a Socio-demographic perspective

The Scottish Government’s Purpose Targets have highlighted the importance of population growth in sustaining economic growth and demographic/ social sustainability; especially within peripheral areas such as coastal communities. This paper presents a case study of population change in Peterhead, a community home to the UK largest white fish landing port. The research examines the ways in which mobility processes (commuting, selective residential moves and international migration) intersect with the regional marine economies; shaping the population space, now and into the future. This mix method paper presents trends in population change from 2001-2011 census data and offers qualitative insights into the role of CEE migrants in re-balancing the demographic deficit. Finally the paper draws upon experiences and intentions of the community to question the potential economic and demographic consequences for (un)sustainability in Peterhead post-Brexit.