Mowi Scotland win appeal to Scottish Government over changes to Loch Hourn fish farm after Highland Council knock-back
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
The Scottish Government has granted an appeal by Mowi Scotland for changes to its Loch Hourn fish farm.
The existing fish farm operates from the southern shore of Loch Hourn, and falls within the Knoydart National Scenic Area. Operators want to reduce the number of pens and increase fish stocks by 10 per cent.
Loch Hourn is a sea loch which separates the peninsulas of Glenelg to the north and Knoydart to the south on the west coast.
Highland councillors voted to refuse the planning application last June, but the Scottish Government reporter has allowed it on appeal.
RELATED: Fish farm giant to appeal council knock-back
Friends of Loch Hourn set to fight appeal
Campaigners claim victory in 'David v Goliath' battle over fish farm
The application from Mowi Scotland was brought to the north planning committee on June 16, 2022, with council officers recommending it for approval.
However, the plan divided local opinion. The public consultation attracted 159 objections and 56 comments in support.
One problem facing councillors is that much of the opposition focused on the operation of the fish farm itself. Instead, the planning committee has to consider only the extra impacts of the new layout and increased biomass.
Nonetheless, Sutherland councillor Richard Gale tabled a motion to refuse. Mr Gale reiterated concerns about increased sea lice and the impact on local marine life.
He won the vote, meaning that the planning application was refused. However, operator Mowi Scotland lodged an appeal with the Scottish Government.
In a detailed response, reporter Christopher Warren disputed the three main aspects of Highland Council’s refusal.
Mr Warren concluded that the environmental impact assessment accompanying the planning application was sound. He agreed that while increased biomass could have some effect on wild salmonids, it would not have a signicant impact. Furthermore, any impact could be managed.
Freshwater mussels were also a factor in refusing the application, but survey work had already concluded there was not likely to be any adverse effect from the fish farm. Mr Warren noted that NatureScot had also reviewed that survey and was happy with it.
Lastly, Mr Warren agreed with NatureScot that while there could be some impact on priority marine life in Loch Hourn, it was not significant.
He added that the extra biomass was “a relatively modest expansion” and granted planning permission.
Highland Council’s north planning committee will be publicly notified of the decision at its meeting on January 25.
