Fraserburgh Harbour chiefs say they are "incredibly disappointed" that a new fishing fund has been allocated on the basis of Scotland's population, instead of is contribution to the sector.
Port bosses have warned a lack of cash from the UK-wide Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund could have a negative impact on a third of all jobs in the town.
Fraserburgh is one of several coastal towns to get a share of £28million from the Labour government, but industry leaders argue Scotland should receive more from the £360million pot.
Pamela Neri, Fraserburgh Harbour’s development manager, said: “We are incredibly disappointed at the lack of industry consultation in advance of this announcement and find it hard to credit that the amount of funding apportioned to Scottish fishing is based upon population rather than landings.
“This announcement affects more than the Harbour.
“It has the potential to impact upon approximately one-third of those employed within the town, including the fish processing companies and our vessel repair and maintenance cluster, both of which rely on the industry.
“The fund has failed to recognise the scale and significance of Scotland’s fishing industry, as well as the deep dependence of coastal communities upon this sector.”