This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Views sought on location of fish farms
13/03/2002
A review of the guidelines governing the location of fish farms in Scotland was announced today
Making the announcement, Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development Allan Wilson said:
"It is crucial to strike a balance between the needs of this growing sector and its impact on the environment. It is more than two years since these guidelines were first introduced, and there have been significant developments in that relatively short time. It is therefore timely to re-examine how we decide where fish farms, for all species, should be located.
"I would invite everyone with an interest in aquaculture to consider, initially, what should be the scope of this review. There will be a further opportunity to comment on revised draft guidelines later this year, by which time we will also be able to take account of the emerging conclusions of our consideration on the strategic framework for aquaculture."
The review will look at a range of issues including how areas for development are categorised, the role of local authorities, the relocation of farms and separation distances between sites, and between sites and natural heritage areas.
Since publication of the Guidelines in 1999 there have been a number of significant developments within the industry, including the outbreak of Infectious Salmon Anaemia, the Tripartite Working Group process, the commercialisation of new farmed species. Additionally, there is a review of regulations governing aquaculture, and the ongoing consultation on the development of a strategic framework for Scottish aquaculture. Because of these, as well as emerging natural heritage requirements, a review of the Guidelines is needed to ensure their continued 'fitness for purpose'.
A consultation letter is being sent to industry trade organisations; local authorities, SEPA and other regulators; wild fishery interests; environmental NGOs and other interests.
Members of the public should write or email to Laura Cregan, ERAD:FFAME4, Pentland House, 47 Robb's Loan, Edinburgh, EH14 1TY, e mailto:Laura.Cregan@scotland.gsi.gov.uk.
Further details can be found on the Scottish Executive website at www.scotland.gov.uk/publications/issue.asp?id=1