Scalpay factory plans

A new factory is planned to be built in Scalpay to replace a fire ravaged net washing station.

The former plant was destroyed by flames in April.

No-one was hurt in the incident as the 14 staff had just ended work for the week and had left the premises.

Scorching heat extensively buckled and mangled the 3,106 m2 metal industrial building.

Since then staff have worked outside to clean and repair giant nets used to cover salmon farm cages.

Owners, Net Services Scotland - which is ultimately controlled by a Norwegian conglomerate - now seek to erect a purpose built factory on the same site.

An agent for the firm said: “This development will service an ongoing commercial need which has been unfortunately disrupted due to the accidental fire to the previous facility. Its impact on the local economy cannot be underestimated.”

The washing facility opened in 2008. Previously, it was run a salmon processing factory but 60 people lost their jobs when it closed in 2005 after operator, Stolt, was taken over by a giant fish farming conglomerate created when Pan Fish merged with the former Marine Harvest.

Photos: Fire-damaged Scalpay factory

Scottish Fire & Rescue Service

Plan to replace fire damaged factory

30 August 2017