Scope for more salmon farms but only in appropriate locations 30/8/11
A new report says there is scope to develop small to medium scale finfish and shellfish farms in four sealochs without harming the scenery and landscape which researchers examined in the Western Isles.
In addition, large salmon farms could be established on the east coast of South Uist and east of the island of Sandray.
However, some locations within sealochs have no more room for aquaculture activities it is suggested.
Though the study looked at four lochs, its findings will be used to draw up policies for fish farming developments around the Hebrides.
But planners will also have to consider a number of other factors including protected habitats and species when deciding on new aquaculture developments.
The report by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) highlights general coastal characteristics which could apply across the board. It also identifies that some areas of landscape are sensitive to development.
SNH intends that the approach developed in the pilot studies will apply applicable to other areas and is seeking feedback from local authorities and other users.
The body focused on landscape and scenery issues at four sea lochs in the Western Isles.
It said Loch Leurbost which presently contains both shellfish and finfish development and is near landscape and seascape capacity.
The Lochs Seaforth, Claidh and Bhrollum has potential for shellfish long lines with
room for small to medium-
In South Uist, Loch Skipport and Loch Eynort is considered to have the
greatest scope for further aquaculture development due to its isolated nature and openness of seascape, and heavily indented coastline.
There are already existing onshore bases in the inner loch of Loch Skipport. Loch Eynort has the potential to be accessed from the inner loch or from Lochboisdale Harbour to the south.
The Barrahead islands, south of Barra is the most sensitive of the four areas studied and thus has a very limited capacity for aquaculture development. The report says it is important the unique coastal landscapes and scenery from Castlebay to Mingulay are preserved as a whole.
Dominic Counsell, head of SNH’s coastal and marine ecosystems unit said: “We are conscious of the opportunities for Scotland’s fish farming industries to expand to meet new markets.
“Our role is to help developers and planners make sure this is done sustainably by getting the right developments in the right places. This report should prove very useful to everyone involved in that process by helping to guide planners and the fish farming industry to areas that are less sensitive to development, in terms of landscape and scenery.”