After more than three decades, the historic J & G Forbes yard at Sandhaven is alive again as W & B Boatbuilding Yard — with plans to put the northeast firmly back on the boatbuilding map.
A historic chapter in northeast boatbuilding is being brought back to life, as PBP Services (Scotland) Ltd and JS Piries Engineering take joint ownership of the former J & G Forbes boatyard at Sandhaven.
Closed since 1991, the yard was once a cornerstone of Scotland’s fishing industry, building hundreds of vessels for fleets across the UK. Following significant investment and refurbishment, the facility is now back in operation — with three vessels already under construction.
The new venture, operating as W & B Boatbuilding Yard, brings together the strengths of two long-established Fraserburgh companies, combining expertise in marine engineering, fabrication, and specialist coatings.
With capacity to build fibreglass and aluminium vessels, and supported by partnerships including Poleson Marine and Peterhead FieldWeld Services, the yard is well positioned to deliver modern, certified vessels for today’s fishing and workboat sectors.
A Kingfisher 26 is currently being prepared for display at Scottish Skipper Expo 2026, offering visitors a first look at the revived operation.
Reflecting on the development, Peter Bruce commented:
“This is about bringing boatbuilding back to Sandhaven and building something for the future. There’s a strong foundation here, and we’re focused on developing it the right way for the industry.”
Beyond the commercial opportunity, the project represents the return of skills, employment, and boatbuilding heritage to Sandhaven — marking an important step forward for the northeast marine industry.
📍 Visit PBP Services at Stands C08 & H5 at Scottish Skipper Expo 2026
📖 More on this story can be found in the current issue of The Skipper.
