Scottish Sea Farms identifies Skerries as possible expansion site.
Scottish Sea Farms (SSF) is assessing the feasibility of developing a new salmon farm off the west of Skerries, with early-stage plans proposing a site comprising ten 160-metre pens.
The company said the location offers “ideal environmental conditions for the best fish welfare and production”. A public consultation will be held at the Skerries Hall on 9 October between 12pm and 8pm, including presentations and Q&A sessions at 1pm and 7pm.
SSF operates multiple salmon farms across Shetland and said the Skerries project remains at the exploratory stage. Details such as proposed biomass and maximum permitted tonnage will be confirmed once a full site development plan has been prepared.
The company added that the project could deliver local economic benefits, citing potential improvements to employment, transport access and investment in community infrastructure.
According to the company, each pen would be stocked to RSPCA Assured standards, maintaining fish densities of 1.5 percent to 98.5 percent water. A feed barge with camera-monitored feeding systems, office and welfare facilities, and storage for fish feed would be located adjacent to the pens.
The proposed development has drawn early concern from local fishermen over possible displacement from established fishing grounds, according to Shetland News. Shetland Fishermen’s Association executive officer Sheila Keith said aquaculture companies should avoid sites that interfere with known fisheries.
SSF said it will assess potential shorebase options if the proposal progresses beyond the consultation stage.
