Marine plan now in place
(Picture: Craig Taylor)
The pilot Marine Spatial Plan has been prepared by Orkney Islands Council, The Highland Council and Marine Scotland.
It provides planning guidance and aims to balance the needs of local communities and marine economic activities whilst protecting the environment on which they depend. These economic activities include renewable energy generation, fishing, tourism, recreation, aquaculture, shipping, and oil and gas.
The Pentland Firth and Orkney waters were chosen to pilot the development of a Marine Spatial Plan to support the sustainable management of the area’s seas and coast.
James Stockan, chairman of OIC’s Development and Infrastructure Committee, said: “Our seas and coast are an integral part of day-to-day life in our community and play a significant role in supporting our local economy.
“The first Marine Spatial Plan for Orkney waters and the Pentland Firth is an important step forward. It has an important role to play in supporting sustainable economic growth, guiding the right development in the right places, whilst safeguarding our outstanding marine and coastal environment.”
People in the area had the opportunity to get involved in the development of the Marine Spatial Plan, with a series of consultation events held in Orkney, Caithness and Sutherland. Local people and wider stakeholders have also provided invaluable written feedback at key stages in the plan making process.
“We would like to thank people for their input – their expertise and knowledge has been important during the preparation of this pilot plan,” added Councillor Stockan.
Two drop-in events are planned for people interested in finding out more about the plan – with staff from the three organisations on hand to provide information.
The events are at: Caithness Horizons in Thurso on May 10, 11am–5pm and 6–8pm with the Orkney event set for the Warehouse Buildings in Stromness on May 11, 11am–5pm and 6–8pm.
The Pilot Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters Marine Spatial Plan and a range of related documents can be viewed online at www.gov.scot/Topics/marine/seamanagement/regional/activity/pentlandorkney